Grand Portage State Park
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Torrents of wild water plummet 120 feet over the High Falls down to the Pigeon River in this park on the U.S. - Canadian border. The falls, the highest in the state, presented a serious obstacle to river travel, so a "carrying place," or portage, was necessary. American Indians created the ancient nine-mile trail from Lake Superior to bypass the falls. This trail became known as "The Grand Portage." Today, visitors of all abilities can take a one-half mile trail and boardwalk to the falls overlook area. The park is designed for day use only and contains mixed hardwood-conifer forests and hiking trails along the banks of the Pigeon River. The spectacular scenery sets the stage for recreational opportunities that include hiking, photography, and picnicking. The park lies within the Grand Portage Indian Reservation and is bordered by Canada on the north and east. Lake Superior is about one mile east of the park.
Tell me more about this park's wildlife, history, geology and landscape.
Visitor Alert!Spring at Grand Portage:Thanks to a lot of late winter and early spring snowfall, the Pigeon River and its waterfalls are raging and should be for some time. Join us for a solo outing or bring your entire family to experience the beauty of the Grand Portage Indian Reservation.Exhibit Hall News:New displays introduce guests to the culture and traditions of the Grand Portage Ojibwe people. Four life-sized murals frame a story of seasonal movement and a subsistence lifestyle that is valued by many to this day. Members of the Ojibwe community directed the development of these displays. Park visitors get a unique 'sense of place' at the only state park located within an Indian Reservation on land owned by the Tribe . |
Park Notes
Visitor Center and Rest Area:The rest area bathrooms and lobby displays are open 24 hours a day. All park trails and outdoor exhibits are open every day. A brand new picnic shelter is open for public use. Summer hours for Travel Information, the Nature Store and Exhibit Hall:Daily 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Minnesota's Number One Waterfall!Experience the majesty and scenic wonder of Minnesota's highest waterfall! Three viewing decks at High Falls provide park guests with various views for photography, or quiet contemplation. Virtual Tour:Take a virtual tour. It's a great tool to help you plan your next trip to the park! Gift Cards:Purchase a Minnesota State Parks Gift Card. Birders:Click Here for the Bird Checklist Firewood Restrictions Information:Minnesota has enacted legislation that restricts firewood being brought to or used on DNR lands. Learn more and review vendor lists. |
Park Highlights | ||||||
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Minnesota's Highest WaterfallEvents |  | |||
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Hours
Best time to contact the park:
Daily, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
If no one is available, please leave a message.
Contact
9393 East Highway 61
Grand Portage, MN 55605
tel: 218-475-2360
fax: 218-475-2365
email: grandportage.statepark@state.mn.us
Getting There
From the town of Grand Marais, Minnesota, travel north on State Highway 61 for about 36 miles to the Canadian Border. The park entrance is on the west side of the highway, just before you come to the U.S. Customs Station on the US/Canada border.