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Tettegouche State Park adventures

Tettegouche State Park Adventures

Tettegouche State Park is a stunning natural reserve in Minnesota, offering dramatic cliff views, stunning waterfalls, and diverse outdoor activities.

9,346
Acres Protected
23
Miles of Trails
300,000
Annual Visitors
1979
Year Established

Popular Activities

Plan Your Visit

Everything you need to know to prepare for an unforgettable trip to Tettegouche State Park.

Entrance Requirements

A state park vehicle permit is required for entry.

Best Time to Visit

Visit in summer for hiking and winter for skiing; fall foliage and spring bird migration are also exceptional times to explore.

Visitor Information

The park's main visitor center offers exhibits, maps, and information about trails and activities.

Getting There

Accessible via Highway 61, which runs along the North Shore; some interior roads may be closed seasonally.

Weather & Climate

Summer temperatures range from 60-75°F, ideal for hiking and camping. Winters are cold, often dropping below 20°F, perfect for winter sports. Spring and fall offer milder, more variable conditions.

Conservation Efforts

Biodiversity protection is a priority, with efforts to preserve sensitive habitats from invasive species. Climate change poses an ongoing risk to the park's ecosystems.

Camping in Tettegouche State Park

Find the perfect spot to stay overnight and immerse yourself in the details.

Tettegouche Camp

Backcountry
Reservations Required

This historic lodge-style camp is accessed by a hike and offers rustic cabin accommodations and scenic views.

Baptism River Campground

Developed
Reservations Required

Located near the park entrance, this campground offers easy access to trailheads and the Baptism River.

Top Trails

Superior Hiking Trail

Moderate
12

A segment of the famous long-distance trail offering breathtaking views of Lake Superior and the park's cliffs.

Shovel Point Trail

Easy
1.2

A short hike to an iconic cliff overlook with striking lake vistas, perfect for photography.

High Falls Trail

Moderate
3.5

Traverse through lush forest to reach the tallest waterfall entirely within Minnesota, known as High Falls.

Tettegouche Lake Trail

Hard
6

A challenging hike through diverse terrain leading to scenic views of Tettegouche Lake.

Trailblazer Tips

Start your hike early in the morning to avoid the crowds and capture the best light for photography at the waterfalls.

Check trail conditions in winter as snow and ice can make paths slippery—carry traction devices like microspikes.

Campgrounds and lodging within the park can fill up quickly during peak season; make reservations well in advance.

Bring binoculars for birdwatching, particularly during the spring and fall migrations.

Helpful Resources