This summer (2025), I’m leading a group to the summit of Mt. Marcy, the tallest peak in New York. At 5,344 feet, it’s a challenging but rewarding hike through the heart of the Adirondacks and a true full-day adventure.
The route covers roughly 14.4 miles round-trip with more than 3,500 feet of elevation gain and typically takes 9–10 hours to complete. It’s not technical, but it is long, demanding, and requires thoughtful preparation—especially when you factor in changing weather, terrain, and fatigue over the course of the day.
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.
Bear Spray or Bare Confidence?
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.
Photo: The Expansive Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA)
Permit, Please!
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 | TrailheadStart
Hitting the Trail: Balancing Acts and Bear Scat
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
Photo: Whale Lake
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
Photo: The First View at Mile 3.1
The Summit and Views Worth the Sweat (and Maybe a Few Mosquito Bites)
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.
Photo: Eagle Mountain Overlook
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!
Photo: Summit Selfie!
Craig the Duluth Dude: Local Expert
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.
Photo: Parting Shot: Shrike Lake in the foreground and Zoo Lake just behind it
Carlton Banks and the Country Club Crew
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.
Grand Marais: The Perfect Post-Hike Chill Spot
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!
Run, Don’t Walk (But Maybe Walk First)
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!
Pro Tips for Hiking Eagle Mountain
Grab a Permit and Map: Before hitting the trail, swing by the Tofte Ranger District Station to get your free day-use permit and a map. It’s a breeze, and while the trail isn’t Everest, it helps to know where you’re going. You can also fill out a permit at the trailhead, but make sure to note you’re at Entry Point #79.
Bear Spray or Not?: While bear encounters are unlikely, it’s always good to be prepared. If you’re more comfortable carrying bear spray, it’s a reasonable precaution. Otherwise, trust your wilderness skills and be aware of your surroundings.
Be Prepared for Mosquitoes: Mosquitoes can be fierce in the summer. Pack a can of bug spray and keep it handy. I found it useful to apply it as I hiked—this way, you can avoid turning into a mosquito buffet.
The True Summit: The trail can be a bit tricky with its markings near the summit. From the first overlook, hike through the woods, when you come to a clearing, make a right and head towards the large boulder with a cairn on top. Follow the path into the woods to find the true summit, marked by a plaque and the official geomarker. It’s worth a bit of extra effort!
Post-Hike Chill in Grand Marais: After your adventure, head to Grand Marais for a relaxing end to your day. The lakeside town offers great spots like Artist Point and Voyageur Brewing Company, perfect for unwinding and savoring the day’s achievements.
So after a bit of a delay and some crazy weather in Oxford, Alabama (a story for another time) – I was back on track to explore new parks and climb more mountains!
Picture: Crazy Weather in Oxford, AL
DeSoto State Park is off of I-59 between Birmingham, AL, and Chattanooga, TN, and is very close to the Georgia border. It is located in Ft. Payne, AL – which ironically made me think of the Damon Wayans movie – Major Payne. “What are you laughing at, pig-boy? You find a piece of candy in your pocket?” I digress again…
About the Park and some fun facts!
Desoto State Park is nestled atop beautiful Lookout Mountain in scenic Northeast Alabama and is the home of many rushing waterfalls and fragrant wildflowers that will simply take your breath away. (the park’s website words, not mine). The park is split into two parts – DeSoto State Park and DeSoto Falls – both linked by the West Fork of the Little River – but DeSoto Falls is 6 miles north of the main park. DeSoto State Park has plenty to do: kayaking, fishing, swimming, 25 miles of hiking trails, 11 miles of mountain bike trails, rappelling, bouldering, picnicking, and camping.
The park, which bears the name of 16th-century explorer Hernando de Soto, was developed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and known as State Park No. 5. When it was dedicated as Desoto State Park on May 24, 1939, it was the largest state park in Alabama. The park’s museum celebrating the CCC’s work in Alabama state parks opened in 2013. Fun Fact: Hernando de Soto was the first European documented as having crossed the Mississippi River. More Jeopardy! trivia for you!
Pictures: Main Park Trail Map | DeSoto Falls Trail Map
DeSoto Waterfall – 3 different views!
I should note first about this post – I try to take copious notes when hiking and visiting parks as I know that I may not post about it for several days or in this case several months. However, the notes for this visit somehow disappeared into the digital universe. So it is forcing me to jog my memory a bit and actually exercise my brain! Not the worst thing to happen, but I may not get every detail correct.
I decided to check out DeSoto Falls first as it was a beautiful day. To get there from DeSoto State Park from the Country Store in the main park, head north to Alabama-89 and turn left. The road will veer right at Wade Gap (but it’s still Alabama-89). Continue until you reach Tutwiler Gap and Alabama-163, turn right here. You know you are in the right place if you see a colorful directional sign on a tree. Alabama-163 will eventually turn into DeSoto Falls Road and dead end into the Picnic Area parking lot (which has a fee of $4 per vehicle – but see my note later in this post). As you are driving toward the Picnic Area, you will see a small gravel parking lot on the right hand side – this is the parking lot for the River and Overlook Trailheads. I started my visit.
Picture: Directional Sign at Titwiler Gap
From this spot – you can reach two of the views of DeSoto Falls. I decided to go to the Basin first and thus took the River Trail. The trailhead is to the right and closer to the road. River Trail is 0.7-miles one-way (Note: I did a combination of trails though – but it still was a total of 0.7-miles one-way). The initial part of the River Trail is down hill slightly and a bit rocky, yet easy to navigate. On this trail you’ll pass several large boulders which are so common to the area. Shortly into the hike, I saw the turnoff for Bluff Trail (0.32-miles in distance) and decided to take it. At this point, I think I was winging it a bit, but I wasn’t too worried as the area isn’t so big that you could get lost. Bluff Trail was a bit steep and continued to be rocky, but nothing too challenging. You’ll pass a cave, and more boulders. Eventually it connects back with the River Trail – where it’s a flat hike out to the Basin.
Pictures: The upper River Trail
Pictures: The Bluff Trail turnoff | The Bluff Trail
Pictures: Along the lower River Trail
When you get to the Basin, you’ll see why you hiked down as you’re rewarded with a massive pool and a spectacular view of the 104-foot waterfall. It was hot enough that if I had the right clothes, I would have taken a dip. Side note: Much of the park information is inconsistent – I have seen park info noting that the falls are anywhere from 5.5 miles to 7 miles north of the park and that the falls are 104 feet and then 107 feet high. Personally, I think they need to hire a proofreader!
Picture: DeSoto Falls Basin
Pictures: DeSoto Fals
After taking in the view, I headed back up the hill to the Overlook Trail and view #2. As you hike up, you’ll pass a bench in case you need to rest a bit – I pushed on. It took me about 40 minutes out and back to do the 1.4 miles – using both The River and Bluff Trails. You connect to the Overlook Trail near the trailhead.
Pictures: Bench | Along the Bluff Trail
The Overlook Trail is pretty flat and an easy 0.9 miles out and back. The beginning of the trail parallels the River and Bluff Trails – giving you a view of the trails below. The Bluff Trail also has a bench rest and take in the scenery. Eventually, you are rewarded with view #2 of DeSoto Falls – although you are a bit further away from the falls than from the basin. Also, as it was the middle of summer, the trees were full and blocked some of the views. Personally, I preferred the view from the Basin – not only were you closer, but it gave you a better appreciation of how high the falls are.
Pictures: Looking down on the trails below from the Overlook Trail
Pictures: The Bluff Trail
Pictures: DeSoto Falls from the Overlook
With two views of the falls down, I decided to head back to the main park and check into my campsite. I chose the Wall Tent Campsite – it’s still rustic and in the Primitive Campground, but it saved me the time of setting up and breaking down my own tent. It was also on a raised platform, keeping me dry – although it hadn’t rained, nor was rain in the forecast. I got settled into camp and then decided to hike a bit more as I still had a few more hours of sunlight.
Pictures: The Primitive Campground Entrance | The Wall Tent Site – courtesy of the Boy Scouts
Falls without Falls
For the afternoon hike, I decided to go on the Orange, Blue, and Red Trails for a total distance of about 4 miles on just the trails. My campsite was just a short distance to the road, so I decided to hike to the Lost Falls (Orange) trailhead instead of driving. I walked out to the main road, then down the road for about a half-mile to the trailhead – adding another 1-mile to my afternoon hike. There is a restroom at this trailhead, which is always a good stop before you start a hike. After my brief pit stop, I was off on the Orange Trail – which for the most part well marked but not too exciting – but I did see an interesting looking mushroom. I soon connected with the Blue Trail as I wanted to see some of the other waterfalls. As a note: for the most part the Orange and Blue Trails run parallel to each other – they are just separated by Laurel Creek.
Pictures: The Orange Trail | Cool looking Mushroom
Pictures: Hiking along the Blue Trail
The first falls to find – Lost Falls. Well, it was certainly lost or maybe it was me, because I passed it and had to double back to check it out – but in my defense, none of the falls are marked well! Sad to say, the creek was pretty dry and Lost Falls was a trickle. The highlight – seeing another cool mushroom!
Pictures: Along the Blue Trail with a cool greenish mushroom
I pressed on towards Laurel Falls. Another note: The trail was a bit overgrown here and I kept wondering if anything was hiding in the grass and going to bite me as I wasn’t hiking with poles. Happy to say, I finished unscathed – no snake bites.
Once I connected to the road, I hiked uphill a little and then connected to the Red Trail. The Red Trail is an interesting trail – it not only is one of North Alabama’s Birding Trails and home to many of North Alabama bird species, such as Belted Kingfishers, as well as migratory birds that winter in Central and South America, Warblers, and Thrushes – but it is also a raised, boardwalk trail, allowing access to those who are physically challenged. I was happy to see it as I am very supportive of making outdoor experiences all-inclusive.
Pictures: Birding Trail | Birds of North Alabama
Pictures: The Boardwalk Trail
Pictures: Along the Boardwalk Trail
I soon connected back to the Orange Trail and made my way back to the trailhead, then to camp. As I was getting settled into my camp for the night, a ranger stopped by to check in and make sure I had a reservation and that I didn’t need anything. I really think he was seeing if I had any contraband – i.e. alcohol. After a short conversation, off he went. I made a fire, watched the fireflies, and enjoyed the peace and quiet.
Day 2 at DeSoto
Although I probably could have seen everything in one day, I was happy to stay in the park. I was up early the next morning – had a quick breakfast and then headed out for my planned hikes. First up – Indian Falls, which is near the Boardwalk Trailhead from yesterday. It’s a quick hike from the parking lot to the falls, but to no surprise, it was dry – so a bit disappointing. So a quick visit and off to the next hike.
Pictures: Indian Falls Area
Pictures: Indian Falls
I drove down to the Lodge, where I parked, and hiked a portion of the Yellow and the Green Trails to see Lodge Falls and the West Fork of the Little River. The Little River was nice, but the falls were a disappointment due to the lack of water.
Pictures: West Fork of the Little River
DeSoto Falls – View #3
I got back in the car and went back north to DeSoto Falls and this time the Picnic Area. And as I mentioned earlier, there is a $4 per vehicle fee, but as I camped in the park, I received a parking pass for here. In all honesty, I wouldn’t pay to park here if it were not included with my camping. I think the other views of the falls are much better. You can walk out to the area above the falls – and then out to an area that will give you a side view of the falls. As I was walking out to the observation area for view #3, I met a really nice couple. They are wild mushroom foragers and actually found wild chanterelles and made eggs with chanterelles for breakfast! I also played ranger and gave them the lay of the land on the falls and hikes they could take.
Pictures: The Upper Falls Area
Pictures: View #3 – from the side | A Look at the Basin from Above
Picture: View of the Upper Falls Area and of the DeSoto Falls
To the left of the dam and the falls is a boat launch. I saw several kayakers and paddle boarders on this portion of the river as you can go upstream a bit. There is also a sandy beach area to hang out and enjoy the sun.
Pictures: West Fork of the Little River | Sandy Beach Area
One of the more interesting parts of this area of the park are the steps down to the observation area. In 2018, DSP Naturalist Brittney Hughes conceived the idea of installing an ambitious public art project at DeSoto Falls—transforming the plain cement stairs leading to the viewing platform into a mosaic work of art. On each of the 43 ‘risers’ is a mosaic of colorful stained glass pieces – each riser is a separate piece of art but seen collectively they create a design that is pleasing to the eye. Brittney’s design features the West Fork of Little River flowing down the length of the steps, and a famous John Muir quote in the middle of the design: “Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in, where nature may heal and give strength to body and soul”~ John Muir.
Pictures: The Public Art Project and the Mosaic Risers
With DeSoto State Park checked off my list, I headed towards Georgia and Cloud Canyon State Park!
