Grand Portage State Park

Grand Portage State Park

Grand Portage State Park is renowned for its stunning waterfalls and offers a striking landscape that highlights the natural beauty of the Minnesota North Shore.

278
Acres Protected
2.25
Miles of Trails
110,000
Annual Visitors
1994
Year Established

About Grand Portage State Park

Grand Portage State Park
 

Grand Portage State Park, located in northeastern Minnesota along the U.S.-Canada border, is most famous for its dramatic High Falls of the Pigeon River, the tallest in the state at 120 feet. This park is a unique collaboration between the State of Minnesota and the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, emphasizing a deep respect for the area’s cultural and natural resources. The park’s geography features rugged, forested terrain with steep riverbanks and offers rich opportunities for hiking and nature photography. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems, including hardwood forests and riparian zones that provide habitat for a variety of wildlife such as moose, black bears, and eagles. History aficionados will appreciate the area’s ties to the fur trade era and its importance as a historic travel route for Native American communities and early European explorers. The park’s accessible trails and visitor facilities make it an appealing destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Highlights

Highlight

High Falls: The tallest waterfall in the state of Minnesota, offering breathtaking views and accessible via a paved trail.

Highlight

Diverse Wildlife: Opportunities to spot moose, black bears, and various bird species in their natural habitats.

Highlight

Pigeon River Corridor: Experience the scenic beauty along the river that forms the international border between the U.S. and Canada.

Highlight

Cultural History: Learn about the heritage of the Grand Portage Band of Chippewa and the important history of the fur trade.

Notable Natural Features

High Falls

A must-see waterfall, the highest in Minnesota, providing a spectacular view year-round.

Pigeon River

This river demarcates the U.S.-Canada border and offers scenic vistas and salmon fishing opportunities.

Historic Grand Portage

A site highlighting the significant cultural and trading history of the region.