Spring and summer on the North Shore offer the perfect opportunity to explore Minnesota’s most beautiful waterfalls. With Country Inn of Two Harbors as your cozy home base, you’re just a short drive away from some of the most scenic (and sometimes hidden) falls along Lake Superior. Here’s a list of real, must-see spots for your next North Shore adventure.
1. Gooseberry Falls State Park
You can’t visit Two Harbors without seeing the iconic Gooseberry Falls. Just a 15-minute drive from Country Inn, this park features Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls along easily accessible paved and dirt trails. Spring runoff makes for spectacular water flow, and summer brings lush greenery and cool mist on warm days.
Tip: Start your day early and come back to relax at Country Inn’s indoor pool and sauna after your hike.
2. Split Rock River Falls
Located within Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, this trail is often missed by those heading only to the lighthouse. Follow the Split Rock River Loop Trail to find smaller, rugged waterfalls along the river gorge. It’s quieter than Gooseberry and perfect for visitors looking for a bit more solitude and a moderate hike.
Tip: Pack good shoes and take it slow—there are great photo ops along the loop.
3. Illgen Falls
Tucked away just upstream from Tettegouche State Park’s High Falls, Illgen Falls is a 40-foot drop on the Baptism River that feels like a hidden gem. Though it’s part of the park, it’s not accessible via the main trail system—making it a favorite for travelers who love discovering something a little more off the radar.
Tip: Add this to a day trip that also includes a visit to nearby High Falls at Tettegouche.
4. High Falls at Tettegouche State Park
At 60 feet, High Falls is the tallest waterfall entirely within Minnesota, and it’s well worth the hike. Located about 35 miles from Two Harbors, this spot combines dramatic scenery with an accessible trail from the visitor center. Spring melt makes this one especially powerful!
Tip: Bring a picnic to enjoy at the scenic overlooks or by the river.
5. Lester River Falls & Amity Creek (Duluth)
Just south of Two Harbors, the Lester River Trail in Duluth offers several small falls and cascades surrounded by forest. These trails are perfect for a relaxing day outdoors without venturing too far. Lester Falls and the Amity Creek Falls are beautiful in the spring, and the wooded trails offer welcome shade in summer.
Tip: Combine with a visit to Duluth’s lakeside parks and return to Country Inn for a peaceful night’s rest away from the city bustle.
Stay at Country Inn of Two Harbors
Planning to chase waterfalls this spring or summer? Country Inn of Two Harbors is your launchpad for outdoor adventures. With clean, comfortable rooms, friendly service, and a location close to state parks and scenic trails, it’s the perfect place to recharge between outings.
Book your stay today and experience the natural beauty of the North Shore, one waterfall at a time.
