Gooseberry Falls is a popular stop for explorers heading up the North Shore. Designated Gooseberry Falls Stare park in 1937, this Minnesota iconic waterfalls is visited all year round. Each season offers a unique perspective of the beauty the falls holds.
In the fall you can see the tree leaves changing color and from the right angle the water looks as though it is set in a painted frame of reds, oranges, yellows, and green pines. In the winter the falls freeze and leave little to none of it’s running water visible to the human eye. It isn’t safe to climb the water as it can still be rapidly moving under the frozen formed ice sculptures. In the spring you are likely to find high waters levels. There is nothing like the thundering sound of massive amounts of water rolling over the falls. Summer brings warm hikes and many people. Sometimes the water levels are low and you are able to walk out on the rocks to the bottom of the falls. No matter when you decide to visit, you won’t be disappointed.
When you first arrive you can stop into the Joseph N. Alexander visitor center. Built in 1996, the construction was supervised by two Italian stonemasons who used red, blue, brown, and black basalt stones for the building. Stop inside and enjoy learning about Gooseberry Falls through their displays and movie room. It is always fun to look around the gift shop for a little souvenir of your time exploring this natural wonder.
If you are up for a simple and beautiful hike there are multiple falls to visit here. The Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls are easily accessible and offer stunning scenery. Follow the signs to the Middle and Lower Falls for a nicely paved walking path that is wheelchair accessible. If you follow the loop around you will be able to enjoy the Fifth Falls.
The park has 70 non-electric camping sites that you can stay in all year-round. If you love hiking and biking, Gooseberry provided 18 miles of hiking trails and 8 miles of mountain biking trails. The park trails also connect to the Superior Hiking Trail. You will find spots to picnic, swim, and explore during your stay at Gooseberry Falls State Park.
