We all know that Minnesota, for the most part, is relatively flat. You won’t find any soaring peaks or high-elevation valleys here. But our state still has its own version of mountains, and they are still breathtakingly beautiful. For example, the Sawtooth Mountains cover much of the North Shore, offering amazing vantage points of Lake Superior. And the Misquah Hills span across the Boundary Waters region, letting people catch glimpses from above that only those willing to put in the work will ever see. It is in the Misquah Hills that the hike we’d like to feature today takes place. Read on below to learn more about the Eagle Mountain Trail in Minnesota’s Misquah Hills. It’ll take you high above the ground, to Minnesota’s highest point!

Eagle Mountain is a low mountain in northern Minnesota's Boundary Waters. As Minnesota's highest point, it rises 2,301 feet above sea level. Its prominence, or high above the surrounding area, is 1,322 feet.
Skye Marthaler/Wikipedia
The mountain is easy to get to via roads in the Boundary Waters. The trailhead is on Forest Road 170, which can be accessed via MN-61 just north of Lutsen.
Ashley Christiansen/AllTrails
Because it is in the Boundary Waters, all hikers need a permit before proceeding. These are easy to get via a self-service station in the trailhead parking lot. Then, follow signs to reach the trail!
Josh Rosenow/AllTrails
The hike up Eagle Mountain is 7 miles round-trip. Because the trail is in the Boundary Waters, it is considered a wilderness trail. This means it is not paved.
Leif Milliron/AllTrails

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There are boardwalks along some sections of the trail, and rutted areas through others. Step carefully, and be sure to wear good shoes! There is plenty to admire along the trail, including beautiful trees, wildflowers, and other lovely foliage.
Darya Karas/AllTrails
As you hike, you will eventually reach steep sections. The last section of the hike includes scrambling up a rocky area. Then, the trees will open up...
Happy Hiker/AllTrails
...and you'll have a spectacular view! As Minnesota's highest point, Eagle Mountain puts you at the very top of the state. You can see for miles around!
Vishea Neisius/AllTrails
The high vantage point offers views above the trees. You'll get to see over the branches and across northern Minnesota's sparkling lakes. The view is truly breathtaking, and well worth the effort to get there!
Leah Glimsdal/AllTrails
Before you leave, be sure to check out the commemorative marker at the summit. It offers information about Eagle Mountain and is a great photo opportunity before you head down. This beautiful trail feels like walking into the clouds as you reach the top of Minnesota!
Beau Ballin/AllTrails

Have you hiked the Eagle Mountain Trail? What did you think? Let us know in the comments! And if you have any other favorite trails in Minnesota that we may not be aware of, feel free to let us know by filling out our nomination form!

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Eagle Mountain, West Cook, MN 55604, USA