When winter arrives in Minnesota, you don’t have to huddle inside for the next few months. There are plenty of reasons to do just the opposite. If you’re a nature lover who wants to experience Minnesota’s beauty in a different way, you may want to check out some of our many waterfalls while they’re frozen solid. These 10 gorgeous frozen waterfalls in Minnesota will get you outside exploring this winter.

1. Illgen Falls

Illgen Falls, Beaver Bay Township, MN 55614, USA
Michael Janke/Flickr
Illgen Falls is upstream from the High Falls at Tettegouche State Park. A quick walk down a short path brings you to the impressive frozen falls. If you can stand the cold, it's definitely worth the trip. It’s one of the prettiest frozen waterfalls in Minnesota.

2. Minnehaha Falls

Minnehaha Falls, Minneapolis, MN 55417, USA
MJI Photos/Flickr
Who doesn't love a summertime visit to this 53-foot Minneapolis landmark? In winter, it's just as impressive. You can view the falls from above or take a magical walk behind the solid sheet of ice. Either way, you'll be glad you did. If you’re in Minneapolis and looking for frozen waterfalls near me, check out this gorgeous 53-footer!

3. Gooseberry Falls

Gooseberry Falls State Park, 3206 MN-61, Two Harbors, MN 55616, USA
The Cut/Flickr
Minnesota's favorite state park gets even cooler in winter. When the famous Gooseberry Falls freezes over, the jagged ice meets with the rock cliffs to create a stunning, otherworldly effect. Gooseberry Falls is one of the coolest waterfalls in Minnesota.

4. Winnewissa Falls

Winnewissa Falls, Sweet Township, MN 56164, USA
Pipestone National Monument / Facebook
At Pipestone National Monument, Winnewissa Falls serves as a centerpoint. In winter, the sight is made more spectacular when the usually rushing water slows to a trickle - and then freezes completely. Seeing Winnewissa Falls is one of our favorite things to do in Minnesota during the winter.

5. High Falls of the Pigeon River

Pigeon River, Minnesota, USA
Michael Janke/Flickr
The High Falls of the Pigeon River happens to be the highest waterfall in Minnesota. And in winter, the 120-foot-tall waterfall may also be the tallest frozen thing in the entire state. If you find yourself close to the Canadian border, check it out at Grand Portage State Park. This tall waterfall is one of the most impressive frozen waterfalls in Minnesota.

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6. Temperance River Falls

Temperance River Falls, 7680 MN-61, Schroeder, MN 55613, USA
David Stern / Google Maps
In summer, you can usually hear the waterfalls at Temperance River State Park. But when the falls are frozen over in winter, it makes for an unusual silence. And if you visit under a fresh blanket of snow, you're in for one of the most peaceful visits you will ever have. These frozen waterfalls in Minnesota are absolutely breathtaking.

7. Devil's Kettle Falls

Devil's Kettle, Hovland, MN 55606, USA
turn off your computer and go outside/Flickr
The Devil's Kettle is one of those things that keeps people coming back. When the waterfall that flows into the hole freezes, the mystery still lives on. Visit Judge C.R. Magney State Park in Grand Marais to draw your own conclusions about this enduring mystery. We love checking out The Devil’s Kettle Falls; it’s one of our favorite things to do in Minnesota during the winter.

8. Como Falls

City of Hokah / Facebook
Have you ever heard of Hokah, Minnesota? We wouldn't be surprised if you haven't. But this small town lays claim to Como Park, which boasts a modest waterfall. Visit in winter for a chance to see the icy water up close.

9. Hidden Falls

Hidden Falls Regional Park, 1313 Hidden Falls Dr, St Paul, MN 55116, USA
moss132000/Flickr
There are a few Hidden Falls in Minnesota, but those at Nerstrand Big Wood State Park are especially cool - even when they're frozen. Why? Because the falls are just not as well known as some on larger rivers. But stretched solid across Prairie Creek, the frozen Hidden Falls makes for an impressive sight. Hidden Falls is one of the most gorgeous waterfalls in Minnesota.

10. Minneopa Falls

Minneopa Falls, South Bend Township, MN 56001, USA
Lorie Shaull / Flickr
Minneopa Falls are a favorite of many who live near Mankato. In fact, it's considered by some to be the most scenic waterfall in southern Minnesota. That rings true even in the winter. The trickles of Minneopa Creek freeze solid on their 40-foot plunge into the pool below, making them quite the sight to see. Check it out for yourself at Minneopa State Park We love these frozen waterfalls in Minnesota!

Have you been to any of these frozen waterfalls in Minnesota? Let us know your favorite outdoor activity to do in the winter! And if you need to bundle up, we love the gear at North Face.

Looking for more winter activities? We love these eight places to visit in Minnesota in the winter!

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More to Explore

Frozen Waterfalls In Minnesota

Megan McDonald | December 01, 2023

What is the name of Minnesota's famous waterfall?

Minnehaha Falls, renowned for its stunning beauty, is Minnesota's famous waterfall. This natural wonder, situated in Minnehaha Park in Minneapolis, is a highlight of the region. The name "Minnehaha" is derived from the Dakota language and aptly means "laughing water," a reference to the sound the water makes as it cascades over the limestone cliffs. 

The falls are particularly magnificent during the spring and summer when the water flow is at its peak, creating a breathtaking spectacle. This location offers a scenic waterfall and a serene park setting, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists. The surrounding area features walking paths, picnic areas, and lush greenery, ideal for a day of relaxation and natural enjoyment. The falls have also been immortalized in Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's poem "The Song of Hiawatha," further cementing their place in cultural and natural history.

Where are the best places to see waterfalls in Minnesota?

Minnesota is rich in natural beauty, with numerous waterfalls that attract visitors from all over. Here are some of the best places to see waterfalls in Minnesota:

  • High Falls - Pigeon River: Located in Grand Portage State Park, directly on the Canadian border, High Falls is the loftiest waterfall in Minnesota, with a 120-foot drop. This park is also great for learning about Minnesota’s early fur trade history​​​​​​.
  • High Falls of the Baptism River: Situated in Tettegouche State Park near Silver Bay, this waterfall is the tallest within Minnesota's state borders, dropping an impressive 70 feet into the Baptism River​​​​.
  • Gooseberry Falls State Park: This park houses five waterfalls and covers 1,600 acres with 20 trails for hikers and bikers. The falls are especially spectacular in full flood during spring​​​​.
  • Devil’s Kettle: Located in Judge C.R. Magney State Park north of Grand Marais, this unique waterfall splits into two, with one side plunging underground and another falling 50 feet into a pool that flows to Lake Superior​​.
  • Cascade River State Park: Here, you can find gentle falls and marvel at dramatic gorges and massive potholes carved out by the water flow. The park is part of a 60-mile stretch along the North Shore Scenic Drive, including other notable waterfalls like Cross River Falls and the Temperance River State Park​​Falls.
  • Minneopa State Park: Located west of Mankato, this park features the largest waterfall in Southern Minnesota. The waterfall flows across two terraces in a mossy gorge, creating a picturesque scene​​.
  • Ramsey Park: Known as the state's largest municipal park, it hosts the namesake of Redwood Falls, offering a different waterfall experience along with camping, hiking, and a small zoo​​.
  • Pipestone National Monument: In southwest Minnesota, this site offers a surprising waterfall experience amid prairie and farms. The area is also significant for its spiritual importance to American Indians​​.
  • Minnehaha Falls: In Minneapolis, the 50-foot Minnehaha Falls is a popular destination in Minnehaha Park. The park offers various activities like hiking, biking, and enjoying concerts​​.

 

These locations showcase the diverse and stunning waterfall experiences Minnesota has to offer, from towering drops to gentle cascades in various natural settings.

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