Entry 104: Tettegouche State Park: Minnesota’s Hidden Gem for Hiking, Waterfalls & Lake Superior Views

Tettegouche State Park, located along Minnesota’s breathtaking North Shore near Silver Bay, is a remarkable blend of wilderness, history, and outdoor adventure. This rugged landscape—defined by sheer cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic views of Lake Superior—has long inspired those who visit it. But beyond its beauty, the park holds deep cultural and ecological significance.

For centuries, the land was home to the Ojibwe people, who lived in harmony with the region’s natural resources. The Baptism River, which flows through the park, was essential for fishing, transportation, and spiritual practices. These rich traditions are still remembered and respected in the area today.

In the late 1800s, as European settlers moved into the region, the timber industry took hold. Logging operations used the Baptism River to float logs to Lake Superior, reshaping much of the North Shore. But in 1898, a different story unfolded here when a group of Minneapolis businessmen bought thousands of acres along the river and formed the Tettegouche Club. Named after a French-Canadian word meaning "hideout," the club offered a peaceful retreat from city life and preserved the surrounding forests, resisting the deforestation happening elsewhere along the coast.

This quiet stewardship continued into the 20th century until the land was sold to the state of Minnesota in 1979, creating Tettegouche State Park. Since then, it has become one of the state’s most iconic destinations.

Nature lovers flock to Tettegouche for its dramatic terrain. Two of the park’s most famous spots—Palisade Head and Shovel Point—are towering cliffs that offer sweeping views of Lake Superior and are popular among rock climbers and photographers. Just inland, the park’s network of trails weaves past waterfalls and through thick forests of birch and pine. The High Falls of the Baptism River, at 60 feet, is the tallest waterfall entirely within Minnesota and a must-see for any visitor.

Beyond the falls, Tettegouche features a range of outdoor experiences:

• Hike to inland lakes like Tettegouche, Nipisiquit, and Mic Mac for fishing or paddling

• Explore miles of multi-use trails that are open for hiking, skiing, and snowshoeing

• Stay overnight at rustic campsites or hike-in cabins nestled deep in the woods

• Watch for wildlife, including black bears, peregrine falcons, and white-tailed deer

Even in winter, the park draws adventurers with its groomed ski trails and frosted waterfalls. Whether you visit for a day hike or a multi-night camping trip, Tettegouche State Park invites exploration, solitude, and connection to the land’s deep history.

This park is more than just a scenic stop along Highway 61—it’s a place where the past and present intersect. From the Ojibwe who first cared for these lands, to the Tettegouche Club that protected them, to the state that preserves them today—every step tells a story. And when you stand at the edge of Palisade Head or feel the mist from the Baptism River's falls, you become part of it.

Family-Friendly Places to Visit Nearby:

1. Palisade Head Scenic Overlook – Great views, short walk, ideal for photos and eagle spotting.

2. Black Beach in Silver Bay – Unique black sand beach great for picnicking, swimming, or skipping rocks.

3. Split Rock Lighthouse State Park – Iconic historic site with interpretive exhibits and scenic trails.

4. Finland Heritage Site – Explore local history through restored buildings and artifacts.

5. Silver Bay Marina – A peaceful spot for a lakeside walk and boat watching.

Family-Friendly Places to Eat Nearby:

1. Northwoods Family Grille (Silver Bay) – Classic diner with kid-friendly options and hearty portions.

2. Our Place Restaurant (Finland, MN) – Cozy comfort food and great breakfasts.

3. Lemon Wolf Café (Beaver Bay) – Known for local fish dishes and homemade pies.

4. Zup’s Food Market Deli (Silver Bay) – Great stop for quick sandwiches and picnic supplies.

5. Camp 61 Restaurant & Bar (Beaver Bay) – Relaxed atmosphere with burgers, pasta, and local brews.