Paddle A Kayak Through A Minnesota Cave For A One-Of-A-Kind Underground Adventure

There’s a Minnesota sea cave along the North Shore of Lake Superior, within Tettegouche State Park, that can be explored by kayak. If you’re an experienced big water paddler, or are prepared to head out with a guide, this is just the type of Minnesota adventure that should be on your bucket list.

Tettegouche State Park is a jewel in the Minnesota state park system.

Waterfalls, hiking trails through the North Woods of Minnesota, and rugged Lake Superior shoreline - including some of its highest sea cliffs - all make up this gorgeous collection of public lands.

Another fascinating feature that you’ll find in the park are caves that the lake’s waves have carved from the ancient volcanic rock of the shoreline.

One, on Crystal Bay, is particularly spectacular and, conditions permitting, open to paddlers.

The so called “Cave of the Waves” - or Crystal Bay sea cave - is one of the more accessible in the park.

Only paddlers with the proper gear and familiarity with Lake Superior conditions should make the trip without a guide.

The lake is beautiful, but waves, current, and year-round frigid temperatures (around 43° F. on average) make it dangerous for inexperienced paddlers.

But properly prepared, a journey to this Minnesota sea cave is well worth the effort!

Check out YouTuber Duluth Urbex and their experience exploring the Cave of the Waves:

You will not forget your visit to this Minnesota sea cave! I do want to reiterate, however, that Lake Superior is not to be trifled with. Only paddlers with experience in these waters should make the trip without a guide - and only when conditions allow safe entry into the caves. Less experienced paddlers should contact a service like Sawtooth Outfitters, out of Tofte, who will supply all the gear you need and ensure that your kayaking adventure is as safe as it is unforgettable. In fact, while in the area, you should consider a stay at Surfside on Lake Superior resort in Tofte, given its central location to trails, parks, and much of what the North Shore has to offer.

Have you had a chance to visit any of the sea caves along the Tettegouche shoreline? Let us know in the comments!