Grand Portage
Adobe Flash Player
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!From now through mid-July, crews will be rebuilding & re-paving all parking lots and trails. The entire area will also be re-landscaped. With all of this construction over the next two months, access will be challenging depending on weather and contractor activity. To view photos of construction progress - visit Grand Portage State Park New Visitor Center PARK TRAILS ARE OPEN. The nature store is NOT open. If you are planning a trip to Grand Portage State Park this summer please use extra caution when crossing the construction site. Thank you! |
Park NotesMinnesota's Number One Waterfall!Experience the majesty and scenic wonder of Minnesota's highest waterfall! Three viewing decks provide park guests with various views for photography, or quiet contemplation. Gift Cards:Purchase a Minnesota State Parks Gift Card. Birders:Click Here for the Bird Checklist at Grand Portage State Park. Firewood restrictions information:
Minnesota has enacted legislation that restricts firewood being brought to or used on DNR lands. Complete information and lists of vendors and locations where approved firewood is available are posted on the DNR Web site. |
Park Highlights | ||||||
|
Minnesota's Highest WaterfallHours
Best time to contact the park: Sat & Sun 10-4, Weekday office hours will vary during construction. 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
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.
|
© 2010
MN Department of Natural Resources |
Questions?
|
DNR is an equal opportunity employer | |
