Gooseberry Falls State Park - Two Harbors, Minnesota

Gooseberry Falls State Park

 3206 MN-61

Two Harbors, MN 55616

47°08′49″N 91°27′48″W / 47.14694°N 91.46333°W

Gooseberry Falls State Park, located along Minnesota’s scenic North Shore of Lake Superior, is one of the coolest destinations for nature lovers in the state. Known for its iconic waterfalls, breathtaking views, and rich history, the park is a perfect mix of accessible natural beauty and fascinating cultural heritage. It was officially established in 1937, though its history stretches back to the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) era, when young workers built much of the park’s early infrastructure, including the stunning stone buildings and trails that still stand today.

The star attraction at Gooseberry Falls is, of course, the waterfalls. The park features five main waterfalls—Upper, Middle, and Lower Gooseberry Falls, along with a couple of smaller cascades—all carved out by the Gooseberry River as it makes its way to Lake Superior. These falls are easily accessible via paved trails, making them a favorite for families and casual hikers. Visitors can take in the roar of the water, walk across picturesque bridges, and snap some incredible photos. Whether the water is rushing in spring or frozen into dazzling ice formations in winter, the falls never fail to impress.

Beyond the waterfalls, the park offers a variety of other outdoor activities. Hiking trails wind through forests of birch, aspen, and spruce, leading to scenic overlooks and rocky Lake Superior beaches. The Gitchi-Gami State Trail, a paved path that runs through the park, is perfect for biking or leisurely strolls. Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy spotting deer, foxes, and an array of birds, while geology buffs can marvel at the park’s volcanic rock formations and glacial history. In the fall, the park comes alive with brilliant colors, drawing visitors from near and far to enjoy the crisp air and fiery foliage.

The history of Gooseberry Falls State Park is as rich as its landscape. The CCC played a crucial role in shaping the park during the 1930s, creating structures that blend harmoniously with the natural surroundings. These historical elements offer a glimpse into the era of large-scale public works projects that aimed to provide jobs during the Great Depression. Today, visitors can stop by the park’s interpretive center to learn more about this history, as well as the ecology and geology of the area.

Camping and picnicking are also popular activities at Gooseberry Falls. The park offers both drive-in and more rustic campsites, along with picnic areas that have some of the best views around. In winter, the park becomes a hub for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, offering a serene way to explore its snow-covered trails.

Gooseberry Falls State Park is not just a place to visit—it’s a place to experience. Whether you’re captivated by the thunderous waterfalls, eager to hike or bike along scenic trails, or interested in its historical roots, the park has something for everyone. It’s an iconic stop along Minnesota’s North Shore, where the natural beauty of Lake Superior meets the timeless allure of its surrounding forests and rivers.