Tag: Two Step Falls

The Adventure Continues: Tettegouche Redux

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!).

*Photo:* Fireside Bliss Under the Evening Sky

Morning Visitor: The Hare-Raising Encounter

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.

Two Waterfalls, Twice the Fun

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!

*Photo:* Descending to Two Step Falls—Morning Magic in Every Step!

*Photo:* Getting Up Close and Personal with Two Step Falls

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

Take Two: Shovel Point and the River Mouth

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

Palisade Head: Glad for Visit #2

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

Wrapping Up: Tettegouche State Park, What a Gem!

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.

Two Harbors: Campground Chaos and Sweet Treats

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!

Minneapolis Finds: Kowalski’s and More

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!

*Photo:* Parting Shot—Oops, Lesson Learned!

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!

Tettegouche State Park | Minnesota | Part 1

By Stephen

On September 1, 2024

In blog | adventure | travel | best state parks list

Welcome to the North Shore’s Hidden Gem

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.

The Calm Before the Storm: A Pit Stop in Duluth

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

The Journey Begins: Coffee, Lighthouses, and Early Morning Solitude

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

*Photo:* Looking east towards Shovel Point

Class is in Session: The Visitor Center Experience

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

Shovel Point Trail: Stairway to Heaven

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

*Photo:* The Mighty Lake Superior—Tossing Giant Logs Like Toothpicks

Photos: The Boardwalks and Stairs Awaiting Your Adventure

*Photo:* Looking West towards Palisade Head

Photos: Shovel Point’s Climbing Zone | A View from the Edge

Photos: The End of Shovel Point | Observation Deck with Amazing Views

The Baptism River Mouth: Nature’s Symphony

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

Connecting the Dots: From Pasty to Passion

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.

*Photo:* The Statue of Bev’s Cousin at the US Skiing and Snowboarding Hall of Fame

Illgen Falls and Devil’s Rock: Chasing Waterfalls

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?

A Quick Pit Stop and High Falls Trail

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!)

Trail Running and Campsite Life

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.