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George Crosby Manitou State Park wilderness guide
State Park · MN

George Crosby Manitou State Park

George Crosby Manitou State Park offers a rugged wilderness experience along Minnesota's North Shore, known for its secluded hiking trails and pristine natural beauty.

State Park6,7584+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

6,758

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About George Crosby Manitou State Park

George Crosby Manitou State Park offers a rugged wilderness experience along Minnesota's North Shore, known for its secluded hiking trails and pristine natural beauty.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

George Crosby Manitou State Park is located in northeastern Minnesota, offering visitors a chance to explore its rugged terrain across nearly 6,758 acres. The park is characterized by its forested landscapes and the Manitou River, which cascades through the park, creating stunning waterfalls. The area was established in 1955, reflecting a commitment to preserving the natural ecosystem of the North Shore region. Visitors are drawn to the park for its secluded hiking opportunities, with trails leading through dense forest and along rocky bluffs, providing breathtaking views and a chance to encounter wildlife such as deer, black bears, and a variety of bird species. The park does not have any roads or modern facilities, which enhances its appeal as a natural retreat for those seeking solitude and a disconnect from urban life.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near George Crosby Manitou State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Treasures of Section 13: A Natural Retreat★ 7.6⌖ 1 miHiking
Section 13 Camp

Treasures of Section 13: A Natural Retreat

Explore the stunning Section 13 Camp near Finland, MN. Great for hiking and rock climbing with breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere. Best visited in spring or fall for vibrant colors and migratory bird watching.

Discover Tettegouche State Park★ 7.0⌖ 7 miHiking
Tettegouche State Park

Discover Tettegouche State Park

Explore Tettegouche State Park near Silver Bay, MN. Featuring Palisade Head's stunning views and Shovel Point's rock formations, this park is perfect for hiking, rock climbing, and camping. Enjoy the natural beauty and serenity of Minnesota's North Shore.

Scenic Shores of Lake Superior Beach near Silver Bay, Minnesota★ 7.0⌖ 7 miRelaxing by the Water
Lake Superior Beach

Scenic Shores of Lake Superior Beach near Silver Bay, Minnesota

Located near Silver Bay, MN, this tranquil Lake Superior beach offers calm waters perfect for kayaking, scenic hiking nearby, and fishing opportunities. Visitors enjoy peaceful freshwater views and natural surroundings with basalt cliffs, especially from late spring through early fall.

Relaxing by the WaterView Details→
The Majestic Split Rock Lighthouse State Park★ 8.5⌖ 20 miLighthouse Tours
Split Rock Lighthouse State Park

The Majestic Split Rock Lighthouse State Park

Explore Split Rock Lighthouse State Park's trails with panoramic views of Lake Superior. Enjoy lighthouse tours and picnicking by the lake. Best visited late spring to early fall. Located near Two Harbors, MN.

Lighthouse ToursView Details→
Trekking Through Minnesota's Superior Wilderness★ 8.2⌖ 20 miHiking
Superior Hiking Trail

Trekking Through Minnesota's Superior Wilderness

Explore the Superior Hiking Trail, stretching over 300 miles from Duluth to the Canadian border. Enjoy scenic views of Lake Superior and potential wildlife sightings. Suitable for all levels with various segments to choose from. Best visited in spring and fall.

Waterfall Wonderland at Gooseberry Falls★ 8.5⌖ 24 miHiking
Gooseberry Falls

Waterfall Wonderland at Gooseberry Falls

Explore Gooseberry Falls, a scenic waterfall destination near Silver Bay, MN. Perfect for hiking, biking, and picnicking, this site is family-friendly and popular, especially during summer. Visit in fall for gorgeous foliage. Some areas may be slippery near the falls.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The cascading waterfalls of the Manitou River offers a stunning natural attraction.✦ Remote hiking trails provide an opportunity to experience Minnesota's wilderness.✦ Opportunities to observe diverse wildlife, including black bears and various bird species.✦ Superior Hiking Trail passes through, offering connections to extensive North Shore landscapes.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in George Crosby Manitou State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in George Crosby Manitou State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in George Crosby Manitou State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in George Crosby Manitou State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in George Crosby Manitou State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in George Crosby Manitou State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fees, but a parking permit is required.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in George Crosby Manitou State Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near George Crosby Manitou State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Finland
⌖ 3.91 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Finland, Minnesota

A remote and peaceful gateway to the Northwoods, Finland offers a tranquil setting with prime access to rugged trails, pristine lakes, and classic northern Minnesota outdoor pursuits.

Late spring through early fall for hiking and paddling; winter for skiing and snowshoeingExplore Town
Silver Bay
⌖ 10.42 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Silver Bay, Minnesota

A quaint town with easy access to the rugged beauty and adventure of Minnesota's North Shore.

Beaver Bay
⌖ 13.58 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Beaver Bay, Minnesota

A serene gateway to Lake Superior's rugged North Shore, where sweeping lake vistas meet dense boreal forests and dramatic cliffs.

Late Spring through Early Fall; Winter for SnowshoeingExplore Town
Tofte
⌖ 18.23 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Tofte, Minnesota

A gateway to North Shore outdoor adventures offering rugged lakefront access, forest trails, and year-round wilderness activities.

Late Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for skiingExplore Town
Muscle Ridge
⌖ 36.78 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Muscle Ridge, Wisconsin

A rugged outdoor area known for its water-based adventures and scenic wilderness along Wisconsin's rivers and lakes.

Late spring through early fallExplore Town
Two Harbors
⌖ 36.96 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Two Harbors, Minnesota

A charming lakeside town offering a mix of North Shore serenity with ample adventure opportunities by Lake Superior.

Summer and FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in George Crosby Manitou State Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Charge Through Cuyuna: Pivot Shuttle E-MTB Rentals at Red Raven Bike CaféBeaver Bay, Minnesota · 13.57 mi away
Trails & Outdoor Adventures· Red Raven

Charge Through Cuyuna: Pivot Shuttle E-MTB Rentals at Red Raven Bike Café

Grab a premium Pivot Shuttle e‑MTB at Red Raven Bike Café in downtown Crosby and cover more of the Cuyuna Lakes trail network with less effort. Expert local fitment, honest route recommendations, and battery range make this rental ideal for mixed-ability groups who want bigger laps and better views.

4 hours–multi-day

Explore this trip

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.