Devil’s Kettle Sounds Scary, but It’s One of the Best Hikes in Minnesota

The Devil's Kettle Trail sounds like a scary hike in Minnesota's Judge C.R. Magney State Park. The terror, however, is all in the name, and you won't be trudging through the forest only to be boiled in a demon's cauldron; really, there's nothing at all scary about the hike—unless the thought of descending then ascending nearly 200 stairs frightens you (no judgment; it's not my idea of fun, either). In fact, it's considered one of the best hikes in the state, even earning national recognition in a recent USA Today ranking. After seeing it, I think you'll agree that making a trip to this remote state park along Lake Superior's North Shore to hike to the Devil's Kettle is totally worth it.

Why Is It Called "Devil's Kettle" Trail?

"Devil's Kettle" refers to a double waterfall along the Brule River, which is the trail's main highlight. It earned its name because one cascade tumbles as expected over a precipice and into the river below. The other, however, disappears into a mysterious geological kettle of unknown depth, hence the nefarious moniker. For years, scientists were unable to ascertain what happened to the water that fell into the cauldron but have recently determined that it rejoins the river several hundred yards downstream of the falls.

What the Hike Is Actually Like

The hike to Devil's Kettle follows a mile-long segment of the Superior Hiking/North Country National Scenic Trail through Judge C.R. Magney State Park for a total of about 2 miles, out and back. Although relatively short, this hike has its share of challenges, including hilly sections of rocky trail criss-crossed with tree roots and an almost 200-stair descent into the river gorge, which you have to climb back up on your way out. If it has rained recently, the forest-shaded trail may be muddy in places, to boot.

Over the 2-mile hike, you'll experience nearly 400 feet in elevation gain. This, combined with the occasionally challenging terrain, earns the hike a moderately difficult rating on AllTrails. On the other hand, the deep Northwoods and occasional viewpoints out over the river gorge offer plenty to keep your mind occupied as your feet do their work.

In late spring and early summer, the calls of warblers and other migratory songbirds offer a soundtrack for this scenic hiking trail in Minnesota, while the Christmas tree aromas of pine and hemlock dance in the air. Watch for red squirrels and martens in the trees as you descend to the boardwalk that leads to Upper Falls and, ultimately, Devil's Kettle. In fall, birch, aspen, and tamarack trees don their golden foliage, adding an additional burst of color to the hike. Even in winter, when the falls freeze, the trail to Devil's Kettle can be dramatic and icily beautiful—but definitely wear traction devices, as the stairs and boardwalks, in particular, can be slippery.

What To Know Before You Go

As with all Minnesota state parks, you'll need a permit if you plan to arrive by vehicle. For residents, a standard annual permit costs $35, and a daily permit costs $7. For more information or to purchase online, visit the Minnesota DNR website. Parking is available at the trailhead, where you'll also find rustic facilities. No matter the time of year, be sure to wear sturdy footwear and bring plenty of water for the hike. If you don't feel you're up to the task of ascending almost 200 steep stairs, I strongly recommend against going down them—the stairs are the only way back to the trailhead. The hike along the rim of the gorge to the top of the stairs is still a lovely one, and you can simply make that your turnaround point if you choose not to descend into the gorge.

Is Devil's Kettle Trail Worth Hiking?

For folks who don't mind rugged terrain and some steep climbs, the payoff for sticking with this strangely named hiking trail to the end is definitely worth it. On the other hand, folks who need or prefer a smoother path and a less steep climb may be better served by heading another 20 minutes up Highway 61 to Grand Portage State Park and hiking the short, paved path to Pigeon River High Falls, the tallest waterfall in Minnesota.