You know those places that aren’t on your radar but end up being a cool surprise? That was Mount Rubidoux Park for me.
I was en route to Las Vegas to catch up with an old friend, but first, I had to scratch that hiking itch. So, a quick AllTrails search led me to Mount Rubidoux—a quirky hike tucked right into the middle of Riverside.
After soaking up the high from conquering Eagle Mountain and exploring Grand Marais, it was time to return to Tettegouche State Park and my new campsite. The drive back from Grand Marais was a pleasant hour, and I swung by the visitor center to check in again (see Part 1 of my adventure here).
My new site was further into Baptism River Campground, and I was genuinely impressed. The layout of this campground is top-notch—each site has its own space, so you’re not cheek-to-cheek with your neighbors. Of course, there was that one guy with the generator humming in the distance. I thought most of these sites had electricity? Maybe he missed the memo.
Evening came with a roaring fire, a glass of red wine, and one of my go-to camping meals: Yellow Tadka Dal from Trader Joe’s and Earthly Grains Basmati Rice from Aldi. These shelf-stable wonders were easy to whip up in my trusty cast iron skillet (a miracle I managed to pack it in my suitcase!).
Up and at it early again! I started my day with cold brew coffee and a splash of Coffee Mate (not ideal, but it lasts longer than real half-and-half in the wild). While soaking in the peaceful morning vibes, a snowshoe hare popped by for a visit. Fun fact: In Minnesota, these hares are dark brown in summer, but their coats turn snowy white in winter—a true fashion transformation known as leucism.
With clear blue skies overhead, I set off to see Two Step and High Falls from a fresh angle. The trailhead near Baptism River Campground gives you access to both falls, but from the opposite side of the river. I started with Two Step Falls, which came with a hefty 200-step descent—talk about earning your view!
Photos: The Trail and the Stairway to Two Step Falls
This view of Two Step Falls was absolutely breathtaking—definitely my favorite angle. I waded through the shallow waters to get up close, and was soon joined by a couple of guys with their eager dogs. I’m pretty sure the dogs were eyeing my adventure with a hint of envy, wishing they could splash around too!
As I hiked along, I came to a fork in the trail—left to the parking lot (for the non-campers) or straight ahead to High Falls. Naturally, I went for the High Falls route and was rewarded with a spacious overlook and a dramatic, pulpit-like platform. I couldn’t resist the urge to give an impromptu sermon to the forest creatures from my new perch.
Photos: High Falls Viewing Area | The Legendary Pulpit Spot!
The river views were spectacular, although the opposite side provides a better vantage of High Falls. I also came across the twisted wreckage of the swinging bridge—evidence of a storm that had made quite an impact.
Photos: Breathtaking Views of the Baptism River
Photos: High Falls from a Different Angle—Less Spectacular, but Still Stunning | The Twisted Swinging Bridge
After packing up, I made my way back to the visitor center and then hiked out to Shovel Point and then to the River Mouth. What a difference a couple of days can make! With the weather finally on my side, the park was busier but still a blast. The calm Lake Superior and turquoise waters at Shovel Point were mesmerizing. I chatted with a friendly couple and admired the view.
Photos: A Calmer Lake Superior – View from the Beach | Palisade Head in the Distance
Photos: Lake Superior’s Dual Personalities—Two Days, Two Vibes!
Photos: Lake Superior – Turquoise Water and Incredible Views
At the River Mouth, I climbed onto the rocks and, to my surprise, found myself part of a FaceTime call. Seriously, do we need to share our conversations with the entire world? I quickly made my escape to the rocky beach, where I enjoyed a peaceful moment with a lone seagull. As a group of teens descended with their towels and chatter, I decided I’d had my fill of the park for now and made my exit.
Photos: The River Mouth—Totally Different Feels!
Photos: Chillin’ with a Seagull | The Baptism River—A Much Calmer Day
As I drove out of the park on MN-61, I decided to revisit Palisade Head. This time, I drove up to the top. The area was bustling with motorcyclists, cars, and climbers. I walked around more, finally understanding the hype. The cliffs were indeed impressive, especially for climbers. I was glad I made the detour.
Photos: Palisade Head – Views Towards Shovel Point | Climbers Preparing to Conquer Palisade Head
Who knew that a place I initially knew little about would turn out to be such a treasure? Tettegouche State Park blew my expectations out of the water, leaving me in awe of its rugged beauty and diverse landscapes. This was my first foray into Minnesota’s North Shore, and let me tell you, it definitely won’t be my last. From the thrilling hikes and awe-inspiring waterfalls to the peaceful, misty mornings by the river, Tettegouche has it all. If you haven’t made the trip yet, put it at the top of your list. Trust me, you NEED to experience this hidden gem for yourself.
My next stop was Two Harbors, just a 30-minute drive down MN-61. I stayed at the Burlington Bay Campground, which was a stark contrast to Tettegouche—campsites were packed in like sardines, with zero privacy.
Photos: Burlington Bay Campground—Sardine City! | Two Harbors Beach
Craving a bit of nostalgia, I made a beeline for the 5th Street Malt Shoppe and treated myself to a scoop of Chocolate Peanut Butter with a side of Coffee Ice Cream. Back at the campground, I wrapped up the day with a glass of red wine on the beach, gearing up for my next adventure in Minneapolis.
Photos: 5th Street Malt Shoppe | My Delicious Reward!
In Minneapolis, I had to check out Kowalski’s Grocery, a renowned local chain. It did not disappoint! The pizza was tasty, though a bit light on basil. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in town. I also stopped by Goodwill to donate some camping gear I couldn’t take home—like a folding lounge chair.
Photos: Kowalkski’s in Minneapolis | Impressive Fish Counter!
Photos: Epic Prepared Goods Counter | My Pizza—Could’ve Used More Basil
Finally, I was off to the airport and then to Chicago for an REI class on Backcountry Navigation and Map Reading. Pro tip: Use TSA-approved locks for your luggage. I learned this the hard way when TSA had to cut off my lock due to my hastily purchased one not meeting their standards. Oh well!
And with that little adventure, my month-long trek through the Upper Midwest comes to an end. What a summer to remember!
Photos: A few of the Summer Highlights!
Catch you on the road!
Nestled in the northeastern corner of Minnesota, Eagle Mountain may not seem as awe-inspiring as some of the country’s gigantic peaks, but it is truly Minnesota’s crown jewel. Standing at 2,301 feet, Eagle Mountain holds the 37th position among State High Points, and visiting it marked my 32nd state high point. It calls to outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, promising a hike filled with adventure and stunning scenery.
Before we get to the summit, let me set the stage for my Eagle Mountain adventure. Picture this: a remote hike in the heart of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCA)—a million acres of rugged, boreal forest where nature reigns supreme. Naturally, the first thing on my mind was protection. I stopped at the Bay Trip Licensing & Outfitters Store in Silver Bay to inquire about bear spray. After a quick chat, I decided to forgo it, trusting my wilderness skills and the low likelihood of a bear encounter. Armed with my NOLS Wilderness First Aid certification, Backcountry Navigation skills, and a healthy respect for the wild, I felt ready to tackle Minnesota’s highest natural point and this rugged country. But the true twist of irony came at the end of this hike, courtesy of Carlton. Stay tuned for the rest of the story.
Before hitting the trail, I swung by the Tofte Ranger District Station to grab a day-use permit—super easy, no fee, and no quota. The ranger hooked me up with a map, which I highly recommend you do as well, because even though the trail isn’t exactly Everest, it’s good to know where you’re going. Note: You can fill out a permit at the trailhead, but be sure to note that you’re at Entry Point #79.
After a quick drive along MN 61 and a turn onto Caribou Trail, I was on a dirt road that led me to the Eagle Mountain trailhead. There was only one other car there, a young family with a toddler gearing up for the hike. Watching them, I couldn’t help but wonder how they’d manage the bugs—especially since the mosquitoes were out in full force. I actually kept a can of bug spray in my side pocket, reapplying it as I made my way to the summit—a move I highly recommend if you want to avoid becoming a mosquito buffet.
Photos: The Road to Adventure | Trailhead Parking Lot
Photos: Trail Info and Permit Box | Trailhead Start
The hike itself kicks off with a mostly flat, 2.5-mile stretch through a beautiful, forested area. The path has a few ups and downs, but nothing major. The trail, while not perfectly marked, is easy to follow, with just enough boardwalks to make you feel like Simone Biles on a balance beam. The first major landmark is Whale Lake— a picturesque spot where I hoped to catch a glimpse of a moose. No luck there, but the view was a decent consolation prize.
Photos: Channeling My Inner Simone Biles – Tackling the Trail’s Balance Beams
Photos: Entering the Boundary Waters Canoe Area | A Perfect Spot to see a Moose, or Not
As you move past Whale Lake, the trail splits—left to Eagle Mountain Summit and straight ahead to Brule Lake Trail. The ascent begins here, and it’s where the hike gets a bit more interesting. Fresh bear dung on the trail had me second-guessing my earlier decision to forgo bear spray, but I pressed on, keeping an eye out for any movement in the woods. At around 3.1 miles in, you’re greeted by your first real view, which is nothing short of spectacular.
Photos: The Trail Junction | Kicking Off the Climb
Photos: Scat and Tracks
From the first overlook, it’s a short jaunt to the Eagle Mountain Overlook—stunning, but not the summit itself (the actual summit doesn’t offer views). I knew the real deal was a bit higher up. Honestly, I was so excited to catch the view that I wasn’t paying much attention to the trail, which isn’t exactly the best marked. Once you hit the clearing, take a right toward the big boulder with a cairn on top—that’s your signal. Follow the path into the woods, and you’ll soon find the true high point, proudly marked by a plaque with a mini-history lesson on Minnesota geology. And just behind it, you’ll spot the official geomarker, certifying your summit success!! I took the obligatory summit selfie, savoring the moment before the inevitable onslaught of mosquitoes had me on the move again.
Photos: Summit Ahead – Cairn Under the Big Pine Tree | Boulder & Cairn Marker
Photos: Trail into the Woods | Heading Up to the Summit | Alas the Summit through the Trees
Photos: Summit Plaque – A Geology History Lesson | Geomarker – Minnesota’s High Point!
I headed back to the Eagle Mountain Overlook, hoping the breeze would fend off the mosquitoes while I munched on a quick snack. That’s when I bumped into Craig, a fellow hiker who’d set out just after I did. Craig, hailing from Duluth, was a wealth of local knowledge and tipped me off about checking out Grand Marais. As we swapped stories and identified the lakes in the distance—Shrike Lake in the foreground and Zoo Lake just behind it—the family with the toddler arrived, followed by a steady stream of other hikers reaching the summit. After wrapping up our chat, I geared up for the descent and set off, with a bit of local wisdom and a good conversation fueling the way back.
The descent was quicker, thanks to my irresistible urge to trail run (as much as I could in my hiking boots, lol) and the fact that running kept the mosquitoes at bay. Along the way, I passed a few more hikers.
As I was wrapping up my hike at the trailhead, I spotted a family who looked like they’d wandered out of a country club rather than a wilderness trail. Picture this: a dad who could’ve been Carlton from The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, showing up with no backpacks, no poles, and just a couple of water bottles. Fortunately, a couple of seasoned hikers in a camper van came to the rescue with a can of bug spray. After giving them a quick rundown on the day-use permit and making sure they were set, I headed off to Grand Marais, half-chuckling at the impending misadventures awaiting them and half-wondering how anyone could be so unprepared.
Craig’s recommendation didn’t disappoint. Grand Marais is the kind of lakeside village that makes you want to kick back and stay awhile. I parked near World’s Best Donuts (didn’t try them, so the jury’s still out), and explored the town. First stop: Artist Point, where Lake Superior stretches out like an endless canvas. A quick stroll took me to the Grand Marais Lighthouse, a charming relic that’s seen its fair share of storms. I wrapped up my visit with a trip to Voyageur Brewing Company, enjoying a locally crafted beer on their rooftop bar while chatting with the bartender who moved there for a summer and ended up staying—eight years ago! Whether you’re into art, history, or just good beer, Grand Marais is a solid spot to unwind after tackling Eagle Mountain.
Photos: Heading out to Artist Point | Looking out on Lake Superior
Photos: Stunning views from Artist Point, including a glance back at Grand Marais
Photos: The Harbor | Giving my ‘dogs’ a well-deserved cool-down
Photos: Grand Marais Lighthouse
Photos: Voyageur Brewing – the Perfect End to a Great Day!
Eagle Mountain may not have the height of the Rockies, but it’s got heart—and a hike that’s worth every step. Between the forested trails, panoramic views, and quirky encounters (shoutout to Craig and the Carlton Banks family), this adventure is one for the books. So lace up those hiking boots, grab your camera, and maybe, just maybe, pack some bear spray. Next up: Tettegouche State Park – Part 2.
Catch you on the Road!
Tettegouche State Park, perched along the rugged North Shore of Lake Superior in Minnesota, is more than just a park—it’s a treasure trove of natural beauty, history, and adventure. Spanning nearly 9,400 acres, it boasts six inland lakes, four stunning waterfalls, and 22 miles of hiking trails. Plus, it’s one of just four state parks in Minnesota with rock climbing. Whether you’re an adrenaline-pumping hiker or climber, an eagle-eyed birdwatcher, or just someone looking to soak in some serious tranquility, Tettegouche has got you covered. And trust me, this place is anything but ordinary.
But before diving into Tettegouche, let me set the scene. My journey began with a stop in Duluth, Minnesota, where I did something as mundane as laundry. Now, doing laundry at a laundromat might not sound like blog-worthy material, but hear me out. It’s in places like these where life unfolds in unexpected ways. At the laundromat, you get a front-row seat to humanity. From the overworked mom juggling kids and detergent to the retiree meticulously folding each shirt, you realize we’re all in this together, one spin cycle at a time. It’s a humbling reminder that no matter where the road takes us, we all have these shared, simple moments. Plus, my timing couldn’t have been better; the skies opened up with a torrential rainstorm, turning this simple chore into the perfect escape.
Afterward, I made my way to a quirky spot for the night: the Lakewalk Parking lot behind the Holiday Stationstore on London Road. My trusty SUV was once again my “tent,” and I rolled in with daylight to spare. I took the chance to stretch my legs on the Lakewalk, enjoying some stunning views of Lake Superior. The trail was buzzing with bikers, runners, and walkers—perfect for a little people-watching.
After dinner and a quick pit stop at the Holiday Stationstore (yes, I grabbed a drink to make using the restroom more legit), I settled in for the night. Not quite used to “roadside camping,” my sleep was a bit fitful. But by sunrise, the morning walkers had me up and at ’em. Clearly, this spot is where Duluthians kick off their day!
Photos: My Roadside Campground in Duluth, Minnesota
Bright and early the next morning, with a fresh cup of grind-and-brew coffee from the local Holiday Stationstore (bless those machines!), I set off for Tettegouche State Park. But hey, what’s a road trip without a few detours? My first spontaneous stop: Split Rock Lighthouse. Nestled dramatically on a cliff, this lighthouse has been guiding ships since 1910. Although it was too early for the lighthouse to be open (that’s what you get for being an early riser!), I still wandered the trails, soaking in the views of Lake Superior as the morning mist clung to the cliffs.
Not far from there was Palisade Head, a remote portion of Tettegouche. And yep, you guessed it—I was early again. But being early isn’t all bad; it meant I had the place to myself, which made the ½-mile hike up the road totally worth it. The views were nice, but I knew I’d have to come back to truly do this spot justice.
Photos: History of Palisade Head | Communication Tower on Palisade Head
Next stop: the Tettegouche Visitor Center. Even though I arrived before it officially opened, the restrooms were available, and let me tell you, they were more educational than your average pit stop. Imagine this: you’re in the stall, and there’s a poster teaching you how to pronounce “Tettegouche” (it’s Tet-a-goo-sh, in case you’re wondering) and sharing the history behind the park’s name. Who knew a bathroom break could double as a history lesson?
Photos: The Visitor Center | My History Lesson
Once the visitor center opened, I met Bev, a staff member with a wealth of knowledge and a contagious enthusiasm for the park. After chatting with her, I felt like I had the insider’s guide to Tettegouche, and she encouraged me to check out the Shovel Point Trail. But, in true Upper Midwest fashion, she also warned me about the stairs—lots of them. It seems like folks around here have a bit of a thing about stairs, but I wasn’t going to let that scare me off.
Photos: Park Maps and Information
Photos: Campground and Climbing Areas Maps
The Shovel Point Trail is a 0.6-mile journey that feels like stepping into another world. Starting at the visitor center, the trail winds along Lake Superior’s shoreline, with rugged cliffs and wooden boardwalks guiding your way. The day was overcast, with winds whipping off the lake, making the scene both dramatic and serene. Along the way, there’s a set of stairs leading down to the pebble-strewn Lake Superior Beach—a perfect spot for a quiet moment with the waves. And when you reach the end of the trail, you’re rewarded with a stunning view of Palisade Head to the west. The best part? I had the End of Shovel Point to myself, which made the experience even more special.
Photos: The Crashing Waves along Lake Superior Beach | Looking Down on Lake Superior Beach
Photos: The Boardwalks and Stairs Awaiting Your Adventure
Photos: Shovel Point’s Climbing Zone | A View from the Edge
Photos: The End of Shovel Point | Observation Deck with Amazing Views
After Shovel Point, I headed back to the visitor center, then took a short walk to the Baptism River Mouth. Here, the river meets Lake Superior, and it’s like nature’s version of a grand finale—water crashing against rocks, winds whipping through the trees, and the colors of the landscape shifting with the light. This was my first day at Tettegouche, and the weather added an extra layer of wildness to the scene. The river was a churning force, and the waves on the lake were anything but gentle.
Photos: Looking Up the Baptism River | A View of the River Mouth from the River’s Edge
Back at the visitor center, I couldn’t resist buying some postcards (I love sending those out from my travels—what can I say, I’m a bit old-school like that). I also had another chat with Bev, who, as it turns out, is from Ishpeming, Michigan—the same town I had driven through the day before. Small world, right? I told her about my pasty experience there, and she asked if I had seen the US Skiing and Snowboarding Hall of Fame. I hadn’t, but I did notice a cool statue of a ski jumper outside. Here’s the kicker: that statue, “Passion to Fly,” is of Bev’s cousin, who was a famous ski jumper! Moral of the story? Put down your phone and engage with the world around you. You never know what connections or stories you might uncover.
With the day still young, I decided to explore Illgen Falls. This 40-foot waterfall, located upstream from the High Falls, isn’t accessible from the park’s main trails, but it’s worth the extra effort. The best part? You can get really close to the falls, feeling the cool mist on your face as the water crashes down.
Photos: The Parking Lot off MN-1 | Illgen Falls and Devil’s Rock Trailhead
Photos: View from the Brink of the Falls | Illgen Falls
Photos: Illgen Falls: A Waterfall with Multiple Personalities
Feeling adventurous, I also hiked out to Devil’s Rock. I’ll be honest—it was a little underwhelming, but the hike itself was pleasant, and the mosquitoes were just starting to wake up as the day warmed up. Not to worry, though; a little bug spray kept them at bay.
Photos: Nature’s Quirky Sculpture | Devil’s Rock—Is It Really That Impressive?
After all that exploring, I took a quick trip into town for some gas, ice, and a postcard stamp run (thanks, Melissa, for the stamps—unfortunately, I didn’t bring enough on this trip). Then, I was back at the park, ready for more adventure. I parked at the High Falls Trailhead, eager to see the highest waterfall completely within Minnesota’s borders.
Photos: High Falls Trailhead | The Trail is a Blend of Boardwalks and Dirt Trails
The trail is 1.5 miles one way and is impressively maintained. You’ll navigate steep sections with wooden stairs, gravel paths, and some bare rock. Along the way, there’s a side trail with 200 steps down to Two Step Falls. It was a bit of an adventure, especially since a storm had wiped out the last set of stairs. The climb down to the river’s edge was a bit sketchy but totally doable!
Photos: The Steep Descent to Two Step Falls | The Section That Took a Dive
At last, the payoff: High Falls, cascading a dramatic 63 feet. The roar of the water and the mist it sends up are nothing short of mesmerizing, providing a refreshing cool-down after the hike.
I knew the trail ahead was closed due to the storm knocking out the swinging bridge (I’ll share some pics in Part 2). Still, I pushed on as far as I could to get as close as possible to the brink of the falls.
Photos: Looking Ahead: Left – The Bottom of High Falls and Right – The Brink and the Swinging Bridge (Well, What’s Left of It!) | Bonus: More Stairs for Extra Fun!
Photos: High Falls Brink | The Closed Trail | Across the River—Where I Was Supposed to Go (But Hey, Adventure Awaits!)
On the way back to the parking lot, I squeezed in a quick trail run—one of my favorite ways to enjoy the trails. fterward, I checked into my campsite, which involved a bit of a winding drive through the park to the Baptism River Campground. Like at Tahquamenon, the park was buzzing with activity, so I had to juggle campsites each night due to high demand. More on that in Part 2.
I settled into camp, lit a cozy fire, enjoyed a hearty dinner with a couple of cold ones, and hit the sack. It was a big day, and tomorrow promised an even bigger adventure as I geared up to tackle Eagle Mountain, Minnesota’s highest natural point.
Photos: My Campsite for the Night—Where the Magic Happens | Check Out This Epic Fire!
That’s a wrap on Part 1 of my Tettegouche escapade. Stick around for Part 2, where the sun finally shines, the trails beckon, and the park unveils even more of its magical charm. Trust me, you won’t want to miss it.
Catch you on the road!
Dates of Visit: 22 & 23 July 2024
Powered by WordPress & Theme by Anders Norén