Gooseberry Falls State Park is one of the most visited in Minnesota, but many people don’t know that there are two bridges with waterfall views in the park – and you can cross them both in a single, moderately-challenging hike.

Gooseberry Falls State Park is one of the most visited sites in the state park system.
AC97/TripAdvisor
If you hike a little farther, though, you'll lose much of the crowd. Start from the visitor center, and follow the trail toward the falls.
When you get to the split in the path, follow the throngs to the middle and lower falls.
AC97/TripAdvisor
Take a moment to enjoy the close-up view at the foot of Middle Falls.
Trent Jonas
Then mosey down the boardwalk along the Gooseberry River.
Laura Daniels/AllTrails
Follow it to the footbridge below Lower Falls.
minnesota bridges with waterfall views
Sarah Lindsley/Google Reviews
Already, you'll notice the crowds thinning, as most visitors stay above Lower Falls.
minnesota bridges with waterfall views
AC97/TripAdvisor

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From the bridge, you'll enjoy fantastic views of Middle and Lower Falls, as well as the Highway 61 bridge.
minnesota bridges with waterfall views
Noah Schwab/Google Reviews
Cross the bridge and follow the trail as it ascends into the woods on the far bank of the river.
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As you hike back toward the highway, you'll get several sweet perspectives of the falls.
Cross under the highway, and follow the trail to Upper Falls.
swoodruf/TripAdvisor
Take a minute to enjoy the scenery.
Then hit the Fifth Falls Trail.
Tiffany Pearson/AllTrails
The trail is a two-mile loop over some hilly and rugged terrain - although there are boardwalks in some places. The trail will take you along the river and past several examples of CCC work from the 1930s.
When you reach Fifth Falls, a bridge will take you back across the river.
minnesota bridges with waterfall views
Christopher Crowhurst/AllTrails
From the bridge, you'll enjoy outstanding views up and downstream.
After you cross, make your way down to the river for another stunning view of the falls and the bridge you just crossed.
minnesota bridges with waterfall views
Tiffany Pearson/AllTrails
Then, follow the trail back to the visitor center.

Have you hiked to Fifth Falls? Do you have a favorite bridge with a waterfall view?

If you’re looking for another hike with spectacular views, you’ll find plenty of awesome trails in the Land of 10,000 Lakes, including several near Gooseberry Falls State Park.

 

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Gooseberry Falls State Park, Minnesota 61, Two Harbors, MN, USA