While planning my recent trip to Grand Marais, Minnesota I had several people tell me this is one of their favorite places in Minnesota. This tiny Minnesota town (<1,500 people) has a slow, laidback feel and is the perfect Midwest long weekend destination. I’m sharing the BEST outdoor things to do near Grand Marais, Minnesota to help you plan your next adventure!
Outdoor things to do in (and around) Grand Marais Minnesota
Grand Marais one of the most beautiful places I’ve visited in Minnesota. Nestled in the Superior National Forest on the banks of Lake Superior, Grand Marais has relaxed costal vibes despite being in landlocked Minnesota.
If you’re visiting Grand Marais you would be remise to pass up on the beautiful outdoor places to explore. The following are a few incredible places to add to your list:
The Summit of Mount Josephine in Grand Portage Reservation
Artist Point
Within Grand Marais
Artist Point is one of the major draws of Grand Marais. The concrete walkways and jagged rock lead to the Grand Marais Lighthouse and create a harbor for boats on Lake Superior.
Artist Point is one of the most beautiful places in Grand Marais to catch sunrise or sunset.
On our second day in Grand Marais we woke up early and watched sunset from Artist Point. We ended up returning in the evening to walk out to the lighthouse and take some photos. We were lucky to have a beautiful night and the water was calm. In the evening we spent about an hour on Artist Point and felt that was enough time to explore.
The Gunflint Trail
Begins within Grand Marais
The Gunflint Trail is popularly known as “the Driveway to the Boundary Waters.” The trail is 42 miles of wooded forest, pristine lakes, and tons of wildlife. Small family-owned businesses, lodges, restaurants, and cafes are spattered along the Gunflint.
The Gunflint Trail Association has created a detailed guide including: lodging recommendations, places for hunting and fishing, hiking recommendations, and places for food and drink.
5 Great places to explore outdoors on the Gunflint
- “The Guardians of the Gunflint” (Tall pine trees located at mile 4.2 of Trail- the unofficial entrance to the Gunflint.” Be sure to enjoy this spot as you drive!)
- Moose Viewing Lake (a short and easy 0.1 mile hike leading to a pristine and secluded lake)
- Honeymoon Bluff (a 1.5 mile hike that leads to views of Hungry Jack Lake)
- Caribou Rock Trail (8.4 miles, but a beautiful lookout lies within half a mile of the trailhead)
- Poplar Lake Boat Launch (a great photo spot, park along the road and walk down to the launch).
Mount Josephine
40 Minute Drive
The hike to Mount Josephine is arguably one of the more challenging hikes on Minnesota’s North Shore, but the views from the top are worth every step. Mount Josephine is a 2.5 mile out-and-back trail with a climb of about 600 feet over a half a mile. Once you’ve made it to the top you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Lake Superior, Minnesota, and the Susie Islands.
This hike was a GRIND, but I would do it all again (and probably will) for the views! Hiking the 1.25 miles to the top took us about 45 minutes with plenty of rest breaks. We spend another 45 minutes at the top enjoying the views, eating our lunch, and having a summit beverage (iykyk)! The trek down only took us 30 minutes and we were back on the road. This hike seems intimidating, and it is challenging, but I would recommend this stop along Minnesota’s North Shore!
Susie Islands Overlook
40 Minute Drive
Susie Islands Overlook is situated just north of Mount Josephine. The Overlook provides views of the Susie Islands (obviously), Hap Point, Wayswaugoing Bay, and on a clear day it’s possible to see Michigan’s Isle Royale.
If you’re traveling along Voyageurs Highway the Susie Islands overlook is worth a visit. Take a short stop to enjoy the views and maybe have a picnic! We were here for about 10 minutes and felt that was more than enough time. Be sure to read the informational board, there is an awesome map and a few great facts.
State Parks near Grand Marais
There are several stunning Minnesota State Parks within an hours drive of Grand Marais. These are awesome spots to see overlooks, waterfalls, and wildlife during your trip to the North Shore.
A vehicle day pass for Minnesota State Parks costs $7, or an annual pass can be purchased for $35. An annual pass allows the vehicle and its occupants to visit any Minnesota State Park or Recreation Area for a full year from the time of purchase.
High Falls at Grand Portage State Park
Cascade River State Park
13 Minute Drive
Cascade River State Park is appropriately named after the cascading falls that enter Lake Superior. Parking is located just off of Voyageur Highway and a half mile loop serves you with beautiful views of the five levels of falls. The park also offers a shoreline trail and several longer trails in the forest if you’re looking to explore further.
I have visited Cascade River State Park twice. During my first trip I only completed the half mile loop around the falls. During my most recent adventure we crossed Voyageur Highway and went down to lake Superior. This has to be one of my new favorite places on the North Shore! It was so serene to sit and watch the waves lap up on the shore.
Judge C.R. Magney State Park
17 Minute Drive
Judge C.R. Magney State Park is a short drive from Grand Marais. Similar to other North Shore State Parks the river is at the heart of the park. The Brulé River thunders through the Superior National Forest and down to Lake Superior creating the infamous Devil’s Kettle Falls along the way.
Devil’s Kettle Falls is notorious because the East portion of the falls flows normally into the river BUT the West portion of the falls suspiciously disappears. Although hundreds of theories have been developed over the years, research has shown that the water travels underground and connects with the river further down.
The trek to Devils Kettle isn’t for the faint of heart. While the mileage may not be intimidating (.71 each way), the 200 steps are what people remember. I heard from multiple people beforehand that they had sore calves after visiting Devil’s Kettle. I have to say- if you know what you’re in for, it’s not that bad- plus the views are great payoff!
Temperance River State Park
33 Minute Drive
Temperance River State Park is a great stop when heading either to or from Grand Marais, Minnesota. The State Park encompasses Temperance River Gorge which creates cascading falls down to Lake Superior. Temperance River State Park is an easy stop while passing through as there are parking areas on either side of Voyageurs Highway. Take some time to wander along the gorge, or have a meal at one of the picnic areas!
I made a brief stop at Temperance River Park while on the way home from Grand Marais. Over the past few years I have seen some stunning pictures and wanted to see the gorge for myself. I spent about 15 minutes walking the paths along the river and taking photos at the bridge.
Grand Portage State Park
44 Minute Drive
Grand Portage is the northernmost State Park along Minnesota’s North Shore. In fact, it’s possible to see the Canadian border crossing from the parking lot! This unforgettable Minnesota State Park is also home to Minnesota’s highest waterfall. There are several great hikes in Grand Portage State Park, but the most popular is an easy one-mile round trip that serves stunning views of the High Falls!
I was so excited to cross Grand Portage State Park off of my Minnesota bucket-list this summer. While we were there we did the High Falls Trail and enjoyed the casual boardwalk. The grandeur of High Falls is definitely worth the drive from Grand Marais!
Hjørdis Rides with North House Folk School
Within Grand Marais
I haven’t had the opportunity to experience the Hjordis myself so I tapped my good friend and fellow blogger Antonia Grant to share about her experience. Be sure to follow her on Instagram at @knead.to.roam!
If you’re looking to get a unique perspective of Grand Marais, what better way to do so than by getting on the water? Embark on a tour aboard the iconic Hjørdis for an unparalleled view of Lake Superior and the Grand Marais Harbor. Welcoming all ages, the Hjørdis can carry up to 6 passengers. Please note that advanced reservations are required. The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
While on board this traditional schooner, the captain and his first mate will regale you with thrilling tales. But, it’s up to you to decide which ones are true! They also share fun information about the area and how to captain a schooner on open water. It is truly a remarkable experience to glide along the water with the iconic purple-hued sails fluttering in the breeze. Whether you are traveling to the North Shore as a couple, family, or solo – this is an experience you don’t want to miss!
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Where we stayed near Grand Marais
While exploring the BEST outdoor things to do near Grand Marais we stayed with Remote Cabin Company. We stayed at their new property located just outside of Tofte (~30 minute drive). This unique property sleeps 6 guests and has one bathroom. While this cabin looks modern, you can get in touch with your rustic/off grid side as there is no running water. This is made up for with the great location and awesome views of Lake Superior.
Check out this unique property on Airbnb HERE.
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The BEST outdoor things to do near Grand Marais Minnesota: Map
