GRAND PORTAGE STATE PARK, MINNESOTA

Torrents of wild water plummet 120 feet over the High Falls down to the Pigeon River in this park on the U.S. - Canadian border. The falls, the highest in the state, presented a serious obstacle to river travel, so a "carrying place," or portage, was necessary. American Indians created the ancient nine-mile trail from Lake Superior to bypass the falls. This trail became known as "The Grand Portage." Today, visitors of all abilities can take a one-half mile trail and boardwalk to the falls overlook area.


Scroll to bottom of post for Grand Portage State Park video.

This state park is probably one of the easiest to find simply because it is the last turn-off before you hit the Canadian border.  You can actually see border from the road.  

As I mentioned above, there are walkways all the way to the falls.  Once you get closer to the falls, there are steps to various platforms for viewing the falls and taking photos. Some of these you will not be able to get to if you are in a wheelchair or have a baby stroller.

These beautiful red Thimbleberries were growing everywhere around Grand Portage. I was curious if they were edible so I did a little research. It is described as being similar to a raspberry but smaller but the bush does produce more numerous fruit. They are tart and may be eaten raw, or cooked and made into jam or jelly and other food.

GRAND PORTAGE STATE PARK WEBSITE

CONTACT

9393 East Highway 61

Grand Portage, MN 55605

• tel: 218-475-2360
• fax: 218-475-2365

email: grandportage.statepark@state.mn.us

DIRECTIONS

From the town of Grand Marais, Minnesota, travel north on State Highway 61 for about 36 miles to the Canadian Border. The park entrance is on the west side of the highway, just before you come to the U.S. Customs Station on the US/Canada border.

CAMPING/LODGING

Grand Portage is a day-use only park. There are no campsites at this park. However, camping is available six miles south of the park at Grand Portage Marina and RV Park.

TIPS

Carry water with you when hiking to the falls. I recommend this to most Minnesota state parks since there is a lot of hiking involved. 

You will need permits for most state parks in Minnesota.  We paid $7 for a day pass (good for all state parks) and it is well worth the money.  You can pick up a pass at any state park.