Updated May 3, 2022

This Easy, One-Mile Trail Leads To Hidden Falls, One Of Minnesota’s Most Underrated Waterfalls

Hidden Falls in Nerstrand Big Woods State Park is a picturesque and accessible waterfall in Minnesota, surrounded by beautiful forest scenery.

Updated May 3, 2022

Written by

Betsy Rathburn

Nature|Waterfalls

Published Jul 24, 2024

This Natural Water Park In Minnesota Is A Summer Dream Come True

Published Jul 24, 2024

Written by

Trent Jonas

When summer rolls around in the Land of 10,000 Lakes, we Minnesotans love to get outside. But when the heat really kicks in, we need to cool down, and we like to do that outside, as well, whether its heading to one of our thousands of lakes, a thrilling water park, a neighborhood splash pad, or a favorite swimming hole. There are even a few swimming holes that feel like water parks. One of these awesome spots is the Big Fork River where it flows through the town of Big Falls, MN. When river levels are low enough, this spot feels just like natural water park in Minnesota.

Big Falls, MN, is a tiny town on the Big Fork River in far northern Minnesota.

The river gives way to a series of rapids and waterfalls where it flows through town, giving the community its name. And when the river levels are low, here, it creates a series of pools and small cascades that are like... well, a water park.

The best place to access the river for swimming is the municipal campground and park.

Even better, the park has facilities, like picnic tables and restrooms.

And, of course, there are campsites.

The park is located at the best place to access the river.

You'll find several natural entry points.

And, personal flotation devices are always a good idea for smaller children who want to enjoy the water.

Pools of different depths and little cascades turn the river into a water adventure.

The slack water below the rapids is perfect for enjoying from the seat of a canoe or a kayak.

And if the water levels aren't conducive to splashing, you'll find the nearby trails perfect for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and offroading.

Be sure to check river levels before you try and swim in the Big Fork - when levels are high, the rapids in this stretch are serious - they can reach class IV to class VI, and swimming would be dangerous. If you're heading up to Big Falls and would like to camp, visit the city of Big Fork website for information and reservations. Another spot that's like a natural water park in Minnesota is the Lester River in Duluth. Don't forget sunscreen and proper footwear!

Have you splashed around in the Big Fork River at Big Falls, MN? Tell us about your experience in the comments.

Nature|Waterfalls

Published Jul 10, 2024

The Magnificent Waterfall In Minnesota That’s Located Only Feet From The Parking Lot

Published Jul 10, 2024

Written by

Trent Jonas

One of my favorite waterfalls in the Land of 10,000 Lakes also happens to be one of the state's easiest to get to. In fact, I'll wager that most people have only ever seen it from their car window as they cross the Beaver River in the tiny community of Beaver Bay. But, if you take a minute or two and pull over, you'll be treated to a stunning, easy to access waterfall in Minnesota.

As you're passing through Beaver Bay, look for a small wayside at MN Hwy. 61 and Lax Lake Road, on the southwest side of the Beaver River bridge.

Pull over and park at the wayside. There, you'll find a pleasant picnic area, restrooms, a trail head for the Gitchi-Gami State Trail, and a kiosk of information about the history of Beaver Bay and the Superior National Forest.

But if you walk a few steps from the parking area toward the bridge over the river, you're in for a treat.

The Beaver River tumbles from the highlands above, toward Lake Superior, in a series of cascades above the bridge. When the water's low, the waterfall is just a series of small streams rushing over the bedrock ledges.

But after the snowmelt or in years with adequate rain, the cascades rush down toward the lake.

At such times, the Beaver River Falls are as dramatic and beautiful as any waterfall in the state.

This video offers a feel for what it's like to stand above this incredible waterfall when the river is swollen by rain:

After you visit the waterfall, don't just run off.

Spend a little time exploring Beaver Bay. Pop over to Second Hand Rose Antiques and Collectibles to do some treasure hunting or grab some grub at Tracks and Racks

Or spend a few days and nights basking in the beauty of the Beaver Bay area.

This gorgeous rental cottage on Lake Superior is located right in Beaver Bay, perfect for enjoying a long weekend on the North Shore.

You won't regret a visit to this easy to access waterfall in Minnesota or the charming village of Beaver Bay. Two of the best state parks in Minnesota are just minutes outside of town, as well. Both Split Rock Lighthouse and Tettegouche State Parks are less than 10 minutes from the Beaver Bay Wayside.

Have you stopped to enjoy Beaver River Falls? Let us know in the comments!

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This Easy, One-Mile Trail Leads To Hidden Falls, One Of Minnesota’s Most Underrated Waterfalls

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This Natural Water Park In Minnesota Is A Summer Dream Come True

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The Magnificent Waterfall In Minnesota That’s Located Only Feet From The Parking Lot

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All Stories

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The Stunning Hike in Nebraska Where the Drive is Worth the Final View

The Audubon Center in North Dakota Where You’ll See More Than 12 Waterfowl Species in a Single Afternoon

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