Helpful Guide to Judge C.R. Magney State Park with Kids
This post featuring my guide to Judge C.R. Magney State Park with kids may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy (linked below).
Judge C.R. Magney State Park is one of the best state parks on the North Shore with kids. It's a smaller park, but it packs in one of the most exciting hikes we've ever done together. The trail to Devil's Kettle is undoubtedly a bucket list hike for many families in Minnesota. Even our daughter was fully engaged from the start, especially when she heard the story of a waterfall that "disappears" into the earth.
Hiking here is certainly an adventure (and not for the faint of heart!). There are about 200 stairs on the trail to Devil's Kettle (so, be prepared-because I was not!). While it's a bit of a workout, it breaks up the trail, and there are areas to rest along the way. You'll also pass another smaller waterfall that's perfect for a break, scrabbling along the rocks, or even cooling off on warmer days (if conditions allow).
The best trails in Judge C.R. Magney State Park for families usually center around trekking to Devil's Kettle. That said, there are a few other trails to choose from (if you want something shorter and stair-free). Some routes also connect to the Superior Hiking Trail. This guide to Judge C.R. Magney State Park is really about embracing curiosity, letting kids wonder where the water goes, and enjoying one of Minnesota's most fascinating natural mysteries together.
Know Before You Go
Here's everything you need to know before visiting Judge C.R. Magney State Park with your kids:
- Nearest City: Grand Marais
- Address: 4051 MN-61, Grand Marais, MN 55604
- Vehicles require a Minnesota State Park Vehicle Permit (annual or day-pass)
- Open daily from 8 am until 10 pm
- There is no office at the park, and the park is only staffed in the summer
- Best seasons to hike here: Spring, summer, and fall
- Judge C.R. Magney State Park Maps
- 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
- Cell reception here can be spotty. Download maps and let someone know your plans.
Nearby state parks also include Cascade River State Park, George H. Crosby Manitou State Park, and Grand Portage State Park.
Unique Park Highlights
This state park features unique characteristics that are hard to find elsewhere in Minnesota. They include:
- Judge C.R. Magney State Park has been a park since 1957 (originally Brule River State Park, it was renamed in 1963!)
- Scenic waterfalls (including Minnesota's most mysterious waterfall!)
- Devil’s Kettle Trail won first place for best hiking trail in the entire country by the USA Today 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards
Okay, but where does the water go??
The Devil's Kettle double waterfall stumped scientists for years! Half the falls go over the ledge into the Brule River, while the other half disappears into the rocks. For decades, no one knew where this water went! Curious hikers and scientists alike threw everything into the hole, from ping-pong balls to GPS trackers, to find out where the water went.
Only recently have scientists settled on a conclusion. After disappearing into the rocks, the water flows down a deep hole and later reenters the river from underground. While the mystery has been solved, it is still a fantastic place to hike on the North Shore with kids!
Best Hiking Trails in Judge C.R. Magney State Park for Families
There are 9 miles of trails within the park. Most of the trails in Judge C.R. Magney State Park are rated as easy or moderate. Here are my top picks for the best trails in Judge C.R. Magney State Park for families:
- Devil's Kettle – moderate, 2.0-mile out-and-back trail (includes a lot of stairs)
- Timberdoodle Trail – easy, 1-mile loop
- The Superior Hiking Trail also connects through this state park
Seasonal Things to Do in Judge C.R. Magney State Park
There are plenty of seasonal things to do in Judge C.R. Magney State Park with your kids. Each visit feels a little different depending on when you go.
In spring, summer, and fall, the park is at its most accessible. There are about 9 miles of hiking trails to explore. In the spring, expect quite a bit of mud. If the snowmelt has been heavy, you may only see one cascade! The spring rush can sometimes overwhelm the waterfall, and they combine for a bit.
In winter, none of the trails are groomed or shoveled. Families who are comfortable with cold-weather hiking should wear ice cleats. Or, use snowshoes anywhere in the park. It's a very different way to experience Judge C.R. Magney State Park with kids (but just as memorable if you're prepared!).
Tips for Visiting Judge C.R. Magney State Park with Kids
Here are a few tips for visiting Judge C.R. Magney State Park with kids:
- Hiking shoes with good ankle support are a must
- I highly recommend wearing ice cleats in the winter
- Hiking poles may be helpful for some hikers, as the terrain can be uneven and steep
- Bring bug spray and mosquito nets. Visit on the wrong day, and they will eat you alive!
- Have a refillable water bottle with you (and extra water in the car)
- Bring your swimsuits and watershoes-you can swim here!
- Cell reception can be spotty. Download maps and let someone know your plans.
- Pack snacks and plenty of water, follow Leave No Trace principles, and have fun!
Family Itinerary for Judge C.R. Magney State Park
Let's plan your family visit to Judge C.R. Magney State Park. I've included some itinerary ideas to help you get started.
If you only have an hour, you're in luck! You should still be able to get to Devil's Kettle with your kids. Though, having 2-3 hours may make the hike a bit more comfortable, especially with younger kids. Picnic tables are also located inside the park for a quick snack or packed lunch.
If you have more than an hour or two, bring your swimsuits and watershoes. There is a natural swimming hole located at the first, lower waterfall along the Brule River. Use caution and your own judgment when wild swimming here. Currents can change speed throughout the season, and swimming here is at your own risk. If the water level is high or if you've never swum in a river before, I would not recommend swimming here.
Where to Stay near Judge C.R. Magney State Park
If you are planning a family trip to visit Judge C.R. Magney State Park, here's where to stay in Grand Marais, Minnesota, with kids:
- Camp at Judge C.R. Magney State Park
- Basecamp Bungalows, Grand Marais
- Timber & Tide Cabins, Grand Marais
- Thomsonite Inn on Lake Superior, Grand Marais
- East Bay Suites, Grand Marais
- Best Western Plus Superior Inn, Grand Marais
- Caribou Highlands Lodge, Lutsen
- Cascade Lodge, Lutsen
- Bluefin Bay on Lake Superior, Tofte
Have Fun Exploring Judge C.R. Magney State Park with Your Kids!
Judge C.R. Magney State Park with kids is such a fun experience for anyone traveling to Grand Marais. From the moment you hit the trail, there's a feeling that something exciting is just around the bend. And, in this case, it really is! Between the dramatic waterfalls, forested trails, and the mystery of Devil's Kettle, it's easy to see why this state park stands out along the North Shore.
When planning things to do in Judge C.R. Magney State Park, it helps to come prepared. The terrain can be rocky, and the stairs can be long. Little legs may need a few extra breaks. And, the hike may take a bit longer than you expect. But, I promise, that's all part of the experience. The reward is one of the most unique natural features in Minnesota (and a hike your kids won't soon forget!).
The best trails in Judge C.R. Magney State Park for families may take a little effort, but they also offer big payoffs in views. This guide to Judge C.R. Magney State Park is your invitation to lean into the adventure and enjoy every step along the way 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.
