The best walks and hikes in Tettegouche State Park
5.0
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346
hikers
17
hikes
Hiking in Tettegouche State Park offers access to a rugged, semi-mountainous landscape along the North Shore of Lake Superior. The park features a mile of dramatic coastline with cliffs and overlooks, alongside a diverse inland environment. This includes four quiet lakes and an undisturbed northern hardwood forest. The Baptism River carves through ancient rhyolite ridges, creating several impressive waterfalls within the park.
Best hiking trails in Tettegouche State Park
- The most popular hiking route is Shovel Point — Tettegouche State Park, a 1.3 miles (2.1 km) trail that takes about 35 minutes to complete. This path leads to an iconic point offering expansive views over Lake Superior.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is High Falls via Superior Hiking Trail — Tettegouche State Park, an easy 1.8 miles (2.9 km) path. This route follows a section of the Superior Hiking Trail to the highest waterfall entirely within Minnesota.
- Local hikers also love the Tettegouche State Park loop, a 5.8 miles (9.4 km) trail leading through varied forest and lakeside terrain, often completed in about 2 hours 36 minutes.
- Hiking in Tettegouche State Park is defined by Lake Superior shoreline, impressive waterfalls, and quiet inland lakes. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy walks to more strenuous climbs.
- The routes in Tettegouche State Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from more than 15 reviews. More than 300 hikers have used komoot to explore Tettegouche State Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
9
hikers
2.74km
00:48
80m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
1.81km
00:29
30m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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1
hikers
4.39km
01:25
230m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.61km
00:44
30m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.11km
00:36
80m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures in Tettegouche State Park
Tips from the Community
The small parking lot provides convenient access to the Superior Hiking Trail in both directions.
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Every time I walk past this cedar tree, I am amazed by its determination to thrive. From a certain angle, the tree appears to be sitting on a boulder, slumped down with its roots down like legs alongside it.
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In years gone by, a column or stack of granite rose from the lake, connected to the mainland by a narrow bridge at its top. However, sometime before 2014, the bridge collapsed, and the entire stack fell into the lake in 2019. I have attached my most recent photo of the stack, taken on June 9, 2017, two years before its collapse in 2019.
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The cliff face of Shovel Point is a popular destination for rock climbers. There are three sets of permanent climbing anchors affixed to the granite rock for climbers to secure their climbing ropes. This is the third set.
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The cliff face of Shovel Point is a popular destination for rock climbers. There are three sets of permanent climbing anchors affixed to the granite rock for climbers to secure their climbing ropes. This is the second set.
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The cliff face of Shovel Point is a popular destination for rock climbers. There are three sets of permanent climbing anchors affixed to the granite rock for climbers to secure their climbing ropes. This is the first set.
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Great views from the bridge of the bay and the mouth of the Baptism River as it cascades down to Lake Superior.
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Great views from the bridge of the bay and the mouth of the Baptism River as it cascades down to Lake Superior.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are there in Tettegouche State Park?
Tettegouche State Park offers a diverse network of over 15 hiking trails, catering to various skill levels. These trails cover more than 23 miles, exploring everything from the Lake Superior shoreline to quiet inland forests and waterfalls.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Tettegouche State Park has several easy trails perfect for beginners and families. For instance, the path to High Falls via Superior Hiking Trail is an easy 1.8-mile route. Overall, there are 9 easy routes available in the park.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Tettegouche State Park?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on trails in Tettegouche State Park, but they must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet and under control at all times. Always check for specific trail restrictions or signage within the park.
Are there any trails that feature impressive waterfalls?
Absolutely. Tettegouche State Park is renowned for its waterfalls along the Baptism River. You can hike to the High Falls, which is the highest waterfall entirely within Minnesota. Other notable waterfalls include Two Step Falls and Cascade Falls.
What kind of natural attractions can I see while hiking in the park?
While hiking, you can explore a variety of natural attractions. The park features dramatic Lake Superior coastline with stunning overlooks like Shovel Point and Palisade Head. Inland, you'll find quiet lakes such as Mic Mac Lake and Bean Lake, as well as the scenic Baptism River.
Are there any good loop trails for a longer hike?
Yes, for a more extensive experience, consider the Tettegouche State Park loop, which is a moderate 5.8-mile trail. Another option is the Tettegouche State Park loop via Mic Mac Lake, covering over 6.6 miles and offering varied forest and lakeside terrain.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Tettegouche State Park?
Tettegouche State Park offers unique hiking experiences year-round. Spring brings lush greenery and flowing waterfalls, while summer is ideal for enjoying the full trail network. Fall is particularly popular for its vibrant foliage, and winter provides opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on groomed trails.
Is there parking available at the trailheads?
Yes, Tettegouche State Park has designated parking areas for visitors. A Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is required for entry and parking. You can purchase a daily or annual permit at the park office or online.
How can I get to Tettegouche State Park using public transport?
Public transportation options directly to Tettegouche State Park are limited. Most visitors travel by car. The park is located directly off Highway 61 on Minnesota's North Shore.
Do I need a permit or pass to hike in Tettegouche State Park?
A Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is required for entry into Tettegouche State Park. This permit covers parking and access to the park's facilities and trails. You can purchase a daily permit or an annual pass.
What do other hikers say about their experience in Tettegouche State Park?
The hiking experiences in Tettegouche State Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 15 reviews. Hikers often praise the park's rugged beauty, the stunning Lake Superior views, and the impressive waterfalls. Many appreciate the variety of trails, from challenging climbs to more leisurely walks.
Are there opportunities for winter hiking or snowshoeing?
Yes, Tettegouche State Park is a fantastic destination for winter activities. The park offers groomed cross-country ski trails and designated areas for snowshoeing, allowing you to experience the park's serene beauty under a blanket of snow.
Are there any trails that offer expansive views of Lake Superior?
Absolutely. The park's mile of Lake Superior coastline provides numerous opportunities for breathtaking views. The trail to Shovel Point is particularly known for its soaring vistas over the lake, and Palisade Head also offers expansive panoramic views.
Most popular attractions in Tettegouche State Park
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