8 State Parks on the North Shore with Kids: Family Guide + Tips

This post featuring state parks on the North Shore with kids may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy.

A young girl and her nana hike in Grand Portage State Park, one of the best state parks on the North Shore with kids.

There are so many great places to hike on the North Shore of Minnesota with kids! From some of the tallest peaks in the state to rushing waterfalls and unique historical sights, the North Shore is filled to the brim with family-friendly hikes for all ages and skill levels. If you want to visit a few state parks on your upcoming North Shore adventures, use my family guide to help you decide which ones to explore together.

I’ve given a brief overview of each park in this family guide to hiking the eight state parks on the North Shore with kids. Plus, I’ve provided other highlights or things of note, including nearby places to eat, adventures within the park besides hiking, if a state park pass is needed, and more. Keep reading to discover the best state parks and trails to hike on Minnesota’s North Shore!

Tips for Hiking + Exploring State Parks on the North Shore with Kids

A young girl looks into the Brule River while exploring Judge C.R. Magney State Park, one of the best state parks on the North Shore.

Ready to explore one (or more!) of the eight state parks on the North Shore with kids? Before you set out, there are a few tips that you need to know about exploring these family-friendly North Shore hikes together.

Download your directions/map. Cell service can be spotty on the North Shore, especially between Grand Marais and Grand Portage. Off-line access to the park map and driving directions will be helpful if you lose reception.
Some of the parks on this list can get pretty busy (looking at you, Gooseberry). If you want to avoid the crowds, plan an early morning, late afternoon, or early evening visit.
Picnics are fun for all ages. Some parks are a trek from nearby cities or restaurants, and having a picnic is a fun addition to your day outdoors.
Keep an eye on the weather. Weather and temperatures can change quickly on the North Shore. Dress in layers and be mindful of the day’s weather report before adventuring.
Don’t expect rivers and Lake Superior to be warm. They will likely be cold all year round. While kids may want to tough it out, keep an eye out for kids who may be getting too cold.
Footwear. Hiking boots are recommended, but tennis shoes will also serve you well. Spring hikers should have snow boots and rain boots; you never know what weather you’ll get! Winter hikers will want microspikes or snowshoes.
Cost. It is $7 for a one-day vehicle permit, and $35 for an annual pass to Minnesota State Parks. Do the math to know which one you will need.
Pack snacks and plenty of water, follow Leave No Trace principles, and have fun with your kids!

Hiking Gear + Packing List for Kids

Gooseberry Falls State Park

The first state park you will encounter on your way up the North Shore is Gooseberry Falls State Park. One of the best state parks near Duluth and Two Harbors, this is also the most visited park in the state of Minnesota (750K+ visitors a year). With easy trails, rushing waterfalls, and a great location, it’s easy to see why so many families and other travelers visit Gooseberry Falls State Park.

In fact, there are five stunning waterfalls (including the iconic Gooseberry Falls). Since the best waterfalls are a short walk from the parking lot, this state park is also a low-effort, high-impact choice for families traveling with kids. Plus, those looking for stroller or wheelchair-accessible views of waterfalls will undoubtedly find them at Gooseberry Falls State Park! Finally, the visitor center has a large on-site Nature Store and indoor bathrooms.

Best Trails at Gooseberry Falls State Park with Kids

Most of the trails in Gooseberry Falls State Park are rated as easy. Here are two great options with kids:

Fifth Falls and Superior Hiking Trail Loop – easy, 3.0-mile loop trail
Gitchi Gummi Trail – easy, 2.2-mile loop trail

Additional Highlights + Notes for Gooseberry Falls State Park

Best season to hike here: Spring and summer
Other outdoor adventure activities here: Paved biking, skate-skiing and cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and camping
Nearby family-friendly places to eat: Rustic Inn Cafe, Madeira Bistro, and North Shore Pizza Cafe (all in/near Two Harbors)
Is a state park pass needed?: Yes

Split Rock Lighthouse State Park

Split Rock Lighthouse, as seen from below, while hiking in the park.

If you are looking for unique hikes on the North Shore, the ones found at Split Rock Lighthouse State Park come with a side of history and epic views of Lake Superior! Less than 30 minutes from Two Harbors, this state park is an excellent option for those interested in learning more about the rich history of Lake Superior and this part of Minnesota. Plus, you’ll get to see one of Minnesota’s most photographed lighthouses!

In addition to the fantastic hiking trails available here, the Minnesota Historical Society oversees the lighthouse grounds and museum. Self-guided and guided tours will allow you to explore the legacy of Split Rock Lighthouse, including access to the Light Keeper’s House, Oil House, and Fog Signal Building. The large visitor center (which houses part of the collections) also includes indoor bathrooms. The indoor exhibits are very kid-friendly and interactive. We love stopping here to see the lighthouse. It is truly one of the most beautiful buildings in Minnesota.

Best Trails at Split Rock Lighthouse State Park with Kids

Split Rock Lighthouse State Park offers easy and moderate trails. Here are two great options with kids:

Day Hill Loop – easy, 3.5-mile out-and-back trail
Day Hill Trail to Corundum Mine Trail – moderate, 4.9-mile loop trail

Or, just wander about the lighthouse grounds and take the path down to the lake to see the lighthouse from a new perspective!

Additional Highlights + Notes for Split Rock Lighthouse State Park

Best season to hike here: Summer or early fall
Other outdoor adventure activities here: Paved biking, mountain biking, fat tire biking (winter), snowshoeing, and camping
Nearby family-friendly places to eat: Rustic Inn Cafe (toward Two Harbors), Cove Point Crossings (toward Silver Bay), and Tracks N Racks (toward Silver Bay)
Is a state park pass needed?: Yes (tours + access to the lighthouse buildings are seasonal)

Tettegouche State Park

Have you heard of Palisade Head or Bean and Bear Lake? These popular hikes are in Tettegouche State Park! These two trails alone make this one of the best state parks on the North Shore with kids. Just a few minutes north of Silver Bay, this state park features a fantastic array of wildlife and geological features. In fact, lucky birdwatchers may even spot one of the peregrine falcons that call Tettegouche State Park home.

Tettegouche State Park also showcases beautiful natural wonders like waterfalls, beaches, and inland lakes. It’s a haven for family outdoor adventures! No matter what you choose to do here, this state park is sure to be a highlight of your trip to northern Minnesota with kids!

Best Trails at Tettegouche State Park with Kids

There are several trails within Tettegouche State Park, from easy to hard. Here are five great options with kids (with options for each intensity level):

Palisade Head – easy, 1.0-mile out-and-back trail
Shovel Point – easy, 1.2-mile out-and-back trail
Baptism River – moderate, 2.9-mile out-and-back trail
Tettegouche Lake Loop – moderate, 5.3-mile loop trail
Bean and Bear Lake Loop – hard, 6.6-mile loop trail

Additional Highlights + Notes for Tettegouche State Park

Best season to hike here: All seasons
Other outdoor adventure activities here: Mountain biking, rock climbing, ATVing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and camping
Nearby family-friendly places to eat: Our Place Inc. (toward Finland), Northwoods Family Grille (toward Silver Bay), Zoe’s Pizza Kitchen (toward Silver Bay), and Coho Cafe & Bakery (toward Tofte)
Is a state park pass needed?: Yes

George Crosby Manitou State Park

If you are looking for a hidden gem and tranquil hikes on the North Shore with kids, then George Crosby Manitou State Park is the answer! This underrated state park is chock-full of exciting adventures for all ages. George Crosby Manitou State Park is inland from Hwy 61, near Finland. It is about two hours from Two Harbors, and one hour from Grand Marais.

George Crosby Manitou State Park is the most rustic and rural of state parks on the North Shore. While there aren’t very many amenities here, the park is ideal for those hoping to spot birds or other wildlife. Plus, kids will delight in meandering the boardwalk trails that flank old-growth forests and a lake. Finally, those interested in getting on the water can even portage a kayak or canoe along Benson Lake Loop to paddle Benson Lake. Make it even more fun by packing a picnic for the day (just don’t forget, if you pack it in, you need to pack it out)!

Best Trails at George Crosby Manitou State Park with Kids

There are several trails within George Crosby Manitou State Park, from easy to hard. Here are two great options with kids:

Benson Lake Loop – easy, 1.3-mile loop trail
Humpback Loop – moderate, 2.5-mile loop trail

Additional Highlights + Notes for George Crosby Manitou State Park

Best season to hike here: Summer, fall, and winter
Other outdoor adventure activities here: Backcountry hiking, camping, and snowshoeing
Nearby family-friendly places to eat: Our Place Inc. (toward Finland)
Is a state park pass needed?: Yes

Temperance River State Park

Temperance River State Park is one of my favorite state parks on the North Shore with kids for simply spending the day hanging out along the river. While other state parks may have more exciting hikes, the best part of exploring Temperance River State Park is just hanging out and enjoying the river views (not to mention, the places where you can dip your toes in the water!). This is also one of the best places for family hikes near Lutsen.

Spring and early summer are the best times to visit to see powerful waterfalls and a fast-flowing river. Meanwhile, mid-summer to early fall is perfect for dipping your toes in the water, once the rush of the snow melt has tempered. Keep your eyes out for shallow pools of water that collect along the river’s edge – perfect for wading in. Keep kids within arm’s reach, and be mindful of possible currents. The best wee pools of water can be found below the upper campground. If you don’t want to let kids in the water, there are plenty of places to get close enough for a quick hand splash. Or, fun places to rock hop or skip stones together.

Best Trails at Temperance River State Park with Kids

There are several trails within Temperance River State Park, from easy to moderate. Here are two great options with kids:

Temperance River Hiking Club Trail (moderate), a 2.2-mile loop trail
Temperance River Falls Loop (moderate), a 3.3-mile loop trail

Additional Highlights + Notes for Temperance River State Park

Best season to hike here: Spring, summer, early fall
Other outdoor adventure activities here: Rock climbing, mountain biking, snowshoeing, fishing, and camping
Nearby family-friendly places to eat: Waves of Superior Cafe (toward Tofte) and Coho Cafe & Bakery (toward Tofte)
Is a state park pass needed?: Yes

Cascade River State Park

This might be my favorite state park on Minnesota’s North Shore. Cascade River State Park is certainly the one I’ve visited most over the years. If you’re looking for kid-friendly hikes near Lutsen and Grand Marais. This is one of the best options, in my opinion! In fact, it’s only 12 minutes from downtown Grand Marais. Plus, since the large waterfall is only about 5 minutes from the parking lot, it’s another low-effort, high-impact option for all ages.

If you’re up for a more epic trek, take the Lookout Mountain Loop. Not only can you enjoy the falls along the Cascade River, but you’ll be treated to an outstanding view of Lake Superior. Finally, after your hike, head across Hwy 61 to see where the river meets Lake Superior. Follow the parking area and stone wall to the left. Here, you’ll find a staircase. Take the stairs down to a few large rocks jutting out of the lake. It’s a great spot to see the waters converge, and get an unobstructed view of Lake Superior.

Best Trails at Cascade River State Park with Kids

There are several trails within Cascade River State Park, from easy to hard. Here are two great options with kids:

Lookout Mountain Loop – moderate, 3.2-mile loop trail
Cascade River State Park Lake Trail – moderate, 3.3-mile loop trail

Additional Highlights + Notes for Cascade River State Park

Best season to hike here: All seasons
Other outdoor adventure activities here: Fishing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and camping
Nearby family-friendly places to eat: Coho Cafe & Bakery (toward Tofte) and Cascade Restaurant & Pub (toward Grand Marais)
Is a state park pass needed?: Yes

Judge C.R. Magney State Park

Perhaps one of the most thrilling hikes across all the state parks on the North Shore, the trail to Devil’s Kettle in Judge C.R. Magney State Park is a MUST! There are about 200 stairs about halfway through the hike – but I promise, the waterfall is worth it! In fact, the views of the double waterfalls are sure to impress anyone – even those persnickety tweens and teens! Just 16 minutes from downtown, this is also one of the closest state parks to Grand Marais.

Kids will love learning that this natural wonder stumped scientists and curious hikers alike for decades. One of the falls cascades into the river, while the other disappears into a rocky cavern. But where does that flow go? For decades, people tossed everything from ping pong balls and rubber ducks to GPS trackers down the cavern to discover where the water re-surfaced. Only recently have scientists agreed on the matter. The general consensus is that after disappearing into the rocks, the water flows underground and reemerges under the river downstream. Before telling your kids the answer, let their imaginations run wild and have them share their thoughts on where it goes!

Before you reach the famed falls, you’ll also find another, smaller waterfall below. This is a popular place for rock hopping and swimming on sunny days. If you’re comfortable with wild river swimming, this is a place you might want to bring your swimming suits.

Best Trails at Judge C.R. Magney State Park with Kids

While the trail eventually connects to the Lake Superior Hiking Trail, there is only really one trail to explore here with kids:

Devil’s Kettle – moderate, 2.0-mile out-and-back trail (includes a lot of stairs)

Additional Highlights + Notes for Judge C.R. Magney State Park

Best season to hike here: Spring, summer, and fall
Other outdoor adventure activities here: Seasonal naturalist programs (see events calendar for details), trout fishing, and camping
Nearby family-friendly places to eat: The Naniboujou Lodge & Restaurant (just 2 minutes from parking lot to parking lot) and My Sister’s Place (toward Grand Marais) – plus, really any restaurant in Grand Maris
Is a state park pass needed?: Yes

Grand Portage State Park

The tallest waterfall in Minnesota, High Falls.

Grand Portage State Park marks the end of the string of state parks along Minnesota’s North Shore. One of the best state parks near Grand Portage and Grand Marais, it also offers one of the most accessible trails in northern Minnesota. Keep in mind, however, that trails may not be cleared/plowed during the winter – review the website for updates.

One of the best hikes on the North Shore with kids, High Falls Trail leads to the tallest waterfall in Minnesota! Pigeon Falls is a spectacular sight to behold and can also be viewed from Canada. The Pigeon River that creates these falls borders the United States and Canada. There are hiking trails to see the falls from the Canadian side, too! While the boardwalk trail is accessible, several stairs lead to the two waterfall viewing platforms.

Either before or after your hike, head into the visitor center to explore the small collection of exhibits on Ojibwe and Voyageur history. There are also indoor bathrooms here.

Best Trails at Grand Portage State Park with Kids

There are several trails within Grand Portage State Park, from easy to moderate. Here are two great options with kids:

High Falls Trail – easy, 1.1-mile out-and-back trail (stroller and wheel-chair accessible)
Pigeon Falls and Middle Falls – moderate, 5.1-mile loop trail

Additional Highlights + Notes for Grand Portage State Park

Best season to hike here: All seasons
Other outdoor adventure activities here: Snowshoeing
Nearby family-friendly places to eat: There aren’t many places to stop between Grand Marais and Grand Portage, or eateries in Grand Portage for that matter. It’s best to plan to eat in Grand Marais before or after making the trek
Is a state park pass needed?: No (this is the only state park on the North Shore that doesn’t require a vehicle or day pass)

Bonus: Jay Cooke State Park

Antonia and her daughter stand on the swinging bridge at Jay Cooke.

While not technically part of the eight state parks on the North Shore, Jay Cooke State Park is a bonus mention due to its proximity to Duluth. About 20 minutes from the city, it’s also one of the closest state parks to Duluth. If your family adventures are focused on Duluth – or if you need a roadside stop on your drive up the North Shore – Jay Cooke State Park is a great option!

Known for its iconic green swinging bridge over the St. Louis River, Jay Cooke State Park offers even more fascinating historical markers throughout the park. Check out Oldenburg Point for Civilian Conservation Corps structures and excellent views of the St. Louis River valley. Then, stop at the Thomson Pioneer Cemetery. It dates back to the late 1800s! Near the swinging bridge, there are plenty of fun places to explore. If your kids are anything like my daughter, they will love hopping to and fro along the large rocks jutting out of the river!

Best Trails at Jay Cooke State Park with Kids

There are several trails within Jay Cooke State Park, from easy to hard. Here are three great options with kids:

Easy Ridge Trail – easy, 1.9-mile loop trail
Silver Creek Trail – easy, 3.4-mile loop trail
Summer and Silver Creek Trail – moderate, 5.7-mile loop trail

Additional Highlights + Notes for Jay Cooke State Park

Best season to hike here: Spring, summer, and fall
Other outdoor adventure activities here: Paved bike trails, mountain biking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and camping
Nearby family-friendly places to eat: Magnolia Cafe and Streetcar Kitchen & Pub (both are along the road back to Hwy 35) – there are more options in Cloquet and Duluth
Is a state park pass needed?: Yes

Bonus Bonus: 5 More Can’t-Miss Hikes on the North Shore with Kids

A mom and her young daughter stand atop Oberg Mountain in Minnesota.

In my opinion, some of the best hikes on the North Shore aren’t in one of the state parks! If you are looking for a few more options to explore the trails, woods, rivers, and lakes across the North Shore, here are some of my favorite kid-friendly hikes to consider adding to your family itinerary:

Sugarloaf Cove Nature Center near Schroeder
Oberg Mountain near Tofte
Mount Rose at Grand Portage National Monument near Grand Portage
Moose Viewing Trail in Grand Marais, up the Gunflint Trail
Magnetic Rock Trail in Grand Marais, up the Gunflint Trail

Keep Hiking + Exploring State Parks on the North Shore Hikes with Kids!

Antonia and her daughter look at the waterfall found in Grand Portage State Park.

Hiking is undoubtedly one of the best things to do on the North Shore with kids. And, these fun state parks on the North Shore are some of the best places to hike, explore, and connect with your kids. I hope this article has helped you decide which ones to add to your North Shore family itinerary. Have fun exploring the North Shore with your kids!

Unless otherwise noted, all images within this article were taken by and belong to the blog’s author, Antonia Grant. A reminder that this post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy for more information.

A Family Guide to the 8 State Parks on the North Shore of Minnesota