The North Shore of Lake Superior is dotted with picturesque waterfalls, sensational hikes, and sweeping views. Fortunately, you can experience all 3 at Gooseberry Falls State Park.
Gooseberry Falls State Park is on Scenic Highway 61 on the North Shore of Lake Superior. It is only 39 miles northeast of Duluth, MN.
Aside from Gooseberry Falls State Park, this highway is full of spectacular things to see and do! So I highly recommend picking up 61 Gems on Highway 61.
The visitor center is a great place to begin your visit to Gooseberry Falls State Park. There is a sizeable park store and several displays for guests.
Gooseberry Falls State Park offers 20 miles of hiking trails, campground and picnic facilities, cross-country skiing and snowmobile trails, and historic structures.
The Gooseberry River tumbles down the gorge towards Lake Superior. The resulting waterfalls are the park’s highlight. And there are lots of places to get your feet wet.
It’s unclear whether there are 4 or 5 waterfalls. The northernmost waterfall is Fifth Falls. The falls closest to Lake Superior are Lower, Middle, and Upper Falls.
This implies a 4th one somewhere, yet it is not on the park map. If you know about the mystery falls, please share!
The Upper Falls is the tallest.
Middle Falls is the most dramatic.
Trails run along the Gooseberry River, with bridges providing an opportunity to cross at various points.
Unfortunately, our time was limited. We were only able to explore the park for about an hour. I wished we’d had much more time!
You don’t want to miss Gooseberry Falls State Park on Lake Superior’s North Shore. Roaming the trails along the river is a great way to spend a few hours. Who knows, maybe you can find the “4th falls”. HA!
While you’re in the area, be sure to check out The Point in Grand Marais!
