High Falls of the Pigeon River

Grand Portage, Minnesota

4.3/5

based on 4 reviews

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Distance

1.15 miles

Elevation Gain

240 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Allison Herreid

Explore High Falls of the Pigeon River, a 120 ft. waterfall (tallest in the state) at the top of Minnesota’s North Shore.

This is a must-visit if you find yourself near the Minnesota-Canadian border by Lake Superior. A quick turn into the Grand Portage State Park parking lot off of Highway 61, and a short 0.5 mile walk (from the parking lot) is all it takes to see one of the most breathtaking waterfalls Minnesota has to offer. The .5 mile trail is paved and has a boardwalk near the falls making it wheelchair accessible and very easy for young children or older adventurers.

Along the paved path to high falls, the first of two stairways on the right leads you down to a view of the Pigeon River. Be sure to check out the Pigeon River Gorge using the second trail and stairs on the right. This gorge lies just downstream from High Falls. Also stop at the visitor center to learn about the culture and traditions of the Grand Portage Ojibwe people.

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Waterfalls

High Falls of the Pigeon River Reviews

Eureka Vaughn

High Falls of the Pigeon River

03/10/20

Absolutely gorgeous waterfall! Very easygoing, paved path. I think there is a trail for more experienced hikers, but it was closed when I was there. The location on the Canadian border was really neat - just make sure you don't miss the turn into the parking lot!

5.0

Payton Bartlett

High Falls of the Pigeon River

07/20/17

Very nice because it is not very crowded. You won't find yourself waiting in line to take a picture. There are 3 overlooks, each with an impressive view

4.0

Stephanie Windschill

High Falls of the Pigeon River

05/16/17

This waterfall is pretty amazing to see... go on a sunny day and you'll get a rainbow to top it off!

4.0

Brian Travis

High Falls of the Pigeon River

01/20/16

I experienced this little adventure from the Canadian side during the winter. Snow shoes definitely made it easier during that time of the year, but still an awesome experience no matter what. When the High Falls is frozen it is just as breath taking! On the Canadian side there is also a pretty cool look out that I recommend you check out. All in all a great location for an easy hike.

4.0

Explorer

Jess Curren

Explorer

High Falls of the Pigeon River

10/09/15

We stopped here just before crossing into Canada on our Circle Tour of Lake Superior. Great, easy hike and breathtaking falls. Its easy to see why the Voyageurs had to portgage around this section of the Pigeon River back in the early 19th century as these falls and the cliffs surrounding them are pretty steep!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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High Falls of the Pigeon River

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High Falls of the Pigeon River Reviews

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Nearby

Mount Josephine

Grand Portage National Monument

Backpack Windigo to South Lake Desor, Isle Royale NP

Huginnin Cove

Backpack Isle Royale NP's Greenstone Ridge Trail

Devil's Kettle

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