In the heart of Minnesota, Grand Marais, MN, a tiny town with just 1500 people, feels like a secret haven for nature lovers. I’ve wandered its hiking trails many times, and the slow, laidback feel of this Midwest destination always pulls me back.
The Superior Hiking Trail, stretching through the Boundary Waters, offers 30 scenic trails perfect for day trips or a long weekend. Whether you’re after kid-friendly routes for a family trip or a challenging hike to peaks with stunning waterfalls, there’s something for every skill level. You can also mix in canoeing, cross country skiing, or a trail run for more outdoor activities.
The surrounding nature areas and historic sights make every step feel like a journey into the BEST outdoor things the North Shore has to offer.
For hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, this is one of my favorite places to explore and soak in the wild beauty near Lake Superior.
Best Day Hikes in Grand Marais
Explore the best day hikes in Grand Marais, MN, including Artist’s Point, Cascade River State Park, Eagle Mountain Trail, and Honeymoon Bluff. Pack wisely, follow Leave No Trace principles, and enjoy stunning views at Pincushion Mountain and Devil’s Kettle.
What to pack for a hiking trip in Grand Marais
Hiking around Grand Marais means preparing for the chilly weather conditions near Lake Superior, especially in June or early July. I’ve learned from my own trips to pack smart for summers that can feel cool, especially at night.
For women, Kuhl Freeflex or REI Trailmade long pants offer a flattering fit and functionality on rugged trails, while a quick dry pair of shorts with a built-in belt and elastic waist works great for swim-friendly paddling or swimming.
A long sleeve wool baselayer or UPF sun hoodie keeps your body temperature steady and offers sun protection.
For cooler evenings, a down puffy jacket that packs down small is a must. I always toss in leggings with pockets and a day hiking pack for essentials. On rugged trails, trekking poles and Oboz Bridger Mids hiking boots provide grip and ankle support, while Bedrocks hiking sandals are perfect for paddling guides. Don’t forget a solid raincoat for sudden showers, and binoculars to spot wildlife. For overnight camping, pack a tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad to complete your backpacking gear.
Leave No Trace in Grand Marais, MN
When I hike in Grand Marais, Minnesota, I follow Leave No Trace principles to keep the North Shore’s beautiful park pristine, much like preserving the charm of BERMEO AND SAN JUAN DE GAZTELUGATXE.
Sticking to hiking trails like the Superior Hiking Trail prevents erosion and damage to trees and plant life from unofficial trails. As guests on the ancestral homeland of the Anishinaabe, the Indigenous People, I show respect and care for sites of historical significance and cultural significance.
I use official parking spots to avoid widening roads or blocking the view, and I always ensure trash like orange peels, banana peels, or toilet paper is packed out.
On rigorous trails, I carry a pack with food and water for my group, knowing cell service isn’t guaranteed and rescue in an emergency takes time. By hiking thoughtfully, I help protect the land’s treasures for everyone to enjoy.
Best Hiking Near Grand Marais, Minnesota
In Grand Marais, Minnesota, summer is the best time of the year to explore trails for hiking. I love the variety, from hard, high mileage trips to easier options perfect for small children or those with limited time.
My trusty organized guide offers suggestions for the easiest hike to the hardest, ensuring a great fit for all. After hiking, I enjoy nearby food and sights, like cozy diners or scenic views, making every season in Grand Marais unforgettable.
Artist’s Point, Downtown Grand Marais
From downtown Grand Marais, the easy walk to Artist’s Point is a must for any family looking to visit a scenic place. This one-mile hike, ADA accessible from the parking lot, winds east through boreal forest, showcasing stunning geology.
At this point, the Grand Marais Lighthouse stands on the breakwater, offering breathtaking sunset views. Enjoy picnic areas near the lighthouse, then walk west back to town, soaking in the charm of this iconic Grand Marais Lighthouse.
Cascade River State Park
On my first trip to Cascade River State Park near Grand Marais, Minnesota, I parked at the parking lot by Cascade Lodge after a quick breakfast. The half mile loop along the Cascade River revealed rock shelves, cascading falls, and hidden falls across five levels, stunning in rainy spring days or when snow melts.
The SHT led to Lookout Mountain, a challenging hike of seven miles through forest. My recent adventure included the one mile shoreline trail by Lake Superior, where I could sit, watch waves lap the shore, and enjoy beautiful views of the North Shore. This serene park, perfect for families to explore on day hikes, is one of my favorite places, visited twice along the Voyageur Highway with longer trails for all seasons.
Honeymoon Bluff, Gunflint Trail
Driving 42 miles up the Gunflint Trail from Grand Marais, I parked at the Driveway off Clearwater Road to hike the 0.6 km Honeymoon Bluff trail. This short, one mile round trip loop is a great little adventure, perfect for exploring the Boundary Waters. The steep stairs and 27 m elevation gain made the ascent a bit of a challenge, but keeping a good pace going clockwise, as reviewers recommend, led me to a rewarding overlook.
The beautiful views of Hungry Jack Lake and Wampus Lake, surrounded by wooded forest and pristine lakes, were excellent. I stayed to enjoy the sunset, hoping to catch the northern lights in winter, which is a must-see spot! The trail completes in an estimated 12 minutes, providing a quick yet scenic experience.
Nearby, small family-owned businesses, lodges, restaurants, and cafes along the Gunflint Trail offer food, drink, and lodging recommendations through the Gunflint Trail Association’s detailed guide, perfect for visiting hikers seeking hiking recommendations, hunting, or fishing. The area’s wildlife and nicer highlights make this a bluff to see, though watch for bug activity in warmer months.
High Falls on the Pigeon River
My summer trip to Grand Portage State Park near Grand Marais, MN, led me to the High Falls Trail, a one-mile paved hiking trail that’s ADA accessible and perfect for a casual boardwalk stroll.
Starting from the parking lot, I was excited to cross to the High Falls on the Pigeon River, Minnesota’s North Shore’s highest waterfall and the northernmost gem near the Canadian Border. Managed by the Grand Portage Band of Ojibwe, or Anishinabee People, this easy round trip offers stunning views of the waterfalls’ grandeur.
It’s one of the great hikes on the North Shore, a popular Minnesota bucket-list day hike that’s unforgettable. The drive to this hiking trail, just shy of the Canadian border crossing, is worth it, and I enjoyed every moment of this popular hike.
The Devil’s Kettle
From Hovland, I took a two mile round trip hike in Judge CR Magney State Park near Grand Marais to see the Devil’s Kettle. The Brule River’s waterfalls, including the Upper Falls and Devil’s Kettle, are stunning, with the river that splits into a cave and resurfaces mysteriously, shining in all seasons. The climb up the stairs to the cascade of the Upper Falls and Devil’s Kettle was tough but worth it for the magical view.
Pincushion Mountain
From downtown Grand Marais, I drove up the Gunflint Trail to the Pincushion Mountain Trail, a four mile out-and-back trail on the Superior Hiking Trail. This 6.6 km hike, with a 129 m elevation gain, takes 1 h 37 m and offers a good mix of terrain, including boardwalks, rocks, dirt, and a few tree roots to navigate. The well-marked trailhead helps you stay on route, despite occasional intersections with mountain bike-only designated paths.
In fall, the steady steep section with rocky sections and muddy conditions was tough, but reviewers suggest bringing water and starting early. The summit’s breathtaking views of Lake Superior and, on clearest days, Isle Royale National Park, were beautiful. The trail winds through Superior National Forest’s dense forests, wooded trails, and foliage, with wildlife in wolf territory.
A one mile stretch by the Devil Track River’s canyon, cascades, and waterfalls, plus an a-frame bridge, added variety. Hikers with leashed dogs, mountain bikers, cross-country skiers, and snowshoeing fans in winter frequent this year-round area. The 8.5 km loop (2 h 15 m, 216 m elevation) offers more diverse outcroppings and rivers. Long grass and a rock face are challenges, but the panoramic overlook and views make this a top day hike for visitors.
Lutsen Mountains
From Grand Marais, I explored the Lutsen Mountains on the Superior Hiking Trail, tackling challenging hiking routes. The difficult SHT path to Mystery Mountain, a quarter mile round trip, had a steep elevation change. North bound or south bound, I crossed a footbridge over the Poplar River, marveling at Poplar River Falls and the river’s rush. The Glove Overlook offered stunning overlooks of Lake Agnes, making the hike unforgettable. I rode the gondola down, soaking in Lutsen Mountain’s beauty.
White Sky Rock & Lake Agnes
From Grand Marais, I took the SHT spur off Caribou Trail for a moderate hike to White Sky Rock and Lake Agnes. The moderate uphills through Poplar River Valley led to White Sky Rock’s stunning overlook, with Caribou Lake and Lake Agnes in view. Hunter’s Overlook added breathtaking overlooks, making this fall hike a perfect blend of challenge and beauty.
Fantasia Overlook
From Grand Marais, I hiked the Superior Hiking Trail in Tettegouche State Park to Fantasia Overlook, a mile and a half spur trail with a half mile uphill climb to the rim of Fantasia Knob.
The rock outcropping offered breathtaking views of Lake Superior, Palisade Head, and a valley with a beaver pond, making this Grand Marais hike a memorable adventure.
Magnetic Rock Trail
I hiked the family friendly Magnetic Rock Hiking Trail off Gunflint Trail, a 3-mile moderate 4.8 km out and back trail with 116 m elevation gain, taking 1 h 15 m.
Pic of Pic of Magnetic Rock Trail:
In less than two miles, the huge Magnetic Rock, roughly 60 feet high, wowed us with its strong magnetic pull, and we used a compass to test the magnet!” Rock scrambling and beautiful vistas in the Boundary Waters, with regrowth from Ham Lake Fire and wildlife, were unique.
Reviewers note challenges like rocky terrain, slippery sections, and steep climbs, so bring plenty of water for overlooks. The path leads all the way to Gunflint Lake, a highlight for this fun hike.
Caribou Rock Trail
From Hungry Jack Road near Grand Marais, I hiked the Caribou Rock Trail in the Boundary Waters, a challenging trail for seasoned hikers. The 2 miles round trip to Moss Lake Overlook or 3 miles moderate path offered overlooks of Bearskin Lake and Moss Lake. The difficult 8+ mile trip to Rose Falls and Rose Lake in the BWCA was rugged, needing a map, compass, water, snacks, and emergency plan. I enjoyed greasy food and drinks at Trail Center Lodge and made a reservation for dinner at Poplar Haus. Day use permits or overnight permits are required for this 8 rugged miles adventure.
The Border Route Trail
I love the Border Route Trail (BRT), a 65-mile backpacking trail in the BWCA near Grand Marais. This challenging hiking trail offers rewarding views of waterfalls and rugged terrain in North America’s wild country.
The trail is difficult, with difficult footing and poorly maintained sections, sometimes marked incorrectly on maps. Sturdy hiking boots are a must, and permits are required for the BWCA. While canoe trips are common, the BRT is a true backpack adventure for experienced backpackers.
The Superior Hiking Trail
My first hike on the Superior Hiking Trail, a 300-mile backpacking trail stretching from Duluth to the Canadian Border, was unforgettable.
Near Grand Marais, this hiking trail along the North Shore of Lake Superior offers gorgeous views of waterfalls and the vastness of the woodland. I tried a short, 0.8 km loop at Oberg Mountain Trailhead, with 23 m elevation gain and a quick 13 m estimated time, perfect for a day trip.
The trail, part of the Cascade river system, feeds stunning falls and beautiful scenery across ridges and highlands. Though less than one mile, the loop route can be difficult with slippery steps and elevation changes.
Reviewers recommend combining it with other trails for a longer hike. For a cozy stay, Boreal Backcountry Cabins near Britton Peak Trailhead are hike-in cabins with screened-in porches, well water, firepits, wood, and solar-powered lights to charge your phone.
These cabins suit thru-hikers, glampers, and basecampers staying a few nights or even a month, making the section a great base for exploring the mapped parks and their various highlights.
Lookout Mountain Loop (Hiking Club Trail)
The Lookout Mountain Loop, a popular 4.8 km double loop in Cascade River State Park, is a gem I hiked last spring. With a 183 m elevation gain and 1 h 29 m estimated time, it’s great all year, but the best time is when the river flows strong.
Interconnecting trails let you shorten or lengthen the hike, offering stunning views of Lake Superior and the surrounding area at the top of this climb. Well-maintained paths are a highlight, but challenges include narrow sections, overgrown areas, and some muddy spots. I consider starting early with sturdy footwear key for this trail.
Eagle Mountain Trail
The Eagle Mountain Trail near Grand Marais, Minnesota, is a 10.6 km out-and-back trail I loved exploring. With a 200 m elevation gain and an average 2 h 34 m estimated time to complete, this moderately challenging route is very popular for birding, camping, and cross-country skiing.
You’ll likely encounter other people on this trail, especially from April through October, the best times to visit. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash. Highlights include stunning views, mossy trails, and interesting terrain, but challenges involve rocky paths and heavy mosquitoes. Reviewers recommend bringing bug spray and sturdy footwear.
Kadunce River Wayside Trail
The Kadunce River Wayside Trail, a 1.9 km out & back trail, is a great spot I loved for its scenic Kadunce River views. With a 57 m elevation gain and 32 m estimated time, it meanders through lush woods, offering beautiful views of the water, cliffside, and surrounding forest. Rocky sections near the river and a chance to go in the ravine by wading through the water make it perfect for a family outing.
Highlights include beautiful scenery, a babbling brook, and a natural feel, but challenges like rough paths and tree roots need traction aids for icy conditions. I recommend starting early to explore fully.
Stays and Sights Near Grand Marais
After hiking in Grand Marais, I found great places to stay along the North Shore.
East Bay Suites in Grand Marais offers cozy lodging options with awesome views of Lake Superior.
In Two Harbors, Larsmont Cottages has lakeside cottage rentals, perfect after hiking Split Rock or Tettegouche. I stayed at Cove Point Lodge in Beaver Bay, a great location for outdoor things with a modern, rustic vibe.
Superior Shores in Two Harbors and Best Western in Grand Marais are BEST for views. The Remote Cabin Company in Tofte, a 30 minute drive away, offers a unique property, an off grid cabin that sleeps 6 guests with one bathroom and no running water, ideal for a North Shore adventure.
Faq
Where to hike in Grand Marais?
Grand Marais has awesome trails! The Pincushion Mountain Overlook is easy, while the Pincushion Mountain Loop is quick. The Superior Hiking Trail includes the Cascade Falls via Superior Hiking Trail and Cascade River Loop. Try the Eagle Mountain Trail, Minnesota’s highest point, or the Magnetic Rock Trail for unique views. The Lookout Mountain Loop, part of the Hiking Club Trail, and Kadunce River Wayside Trail are great for families.
Is Grand Marais worth visiting?
Grand Marais, MN, an artsy harbor town on the North Shore, is a top adventure base. Budget Travel Magazine named it one of America’s Coolest Small Towns, Outside Magazine called it the Next Great Adventure Town, and National Geographic Adventure Magazine listed it in the Top 10 Beach Getaways. Its friendly, creative, talented people—locals and visitors—make it a must-see.
Can I see the northern lights in Grand Marais?
Grand Marais, a far-northern location in Minnesota on the North Shore, is one of the world’s best places to view the northern lights. With open, dark skies, spots near Cook County shine, per a local guide. I saw the northern lights by the Kadunce River, and it was amazing. Check a northern lights viewing forecast for the best chance.
What is the best day of the week to hike?
Weekdays are the best choice for a quiet hike in Grand Marais with solitude. Weekends, like Saturday, are busy, with parking lots full by mid-morning, especially in fall when color is at its peak. Popular trails like Pincushion or Eagle Mountain feel calmer mid-week with good weather.
