🏆🏆🏆🏆 North Shore Hidden Gem — Dramatic cascade waterfall on Devils Track River — one of the North Shore’s most scenic but lesser-known falls
Devils Track Falls State Wayside protects a stunning series of cascading waterfalls on the Devils Track River near Grand Marais. The river plunges through a narrow gorge of dark volcanic basalt — the 1.1-billion-year-old rocks of the Midcontinent Rift. Unlike the more famous North Shore falls, Devils Track receives far fewer visitors, offering a more intimate waterfall experience. The surrounding boreal forest of birch, spruce, and balsam fir is spectacular during fall color season.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Near Grand Marais, Cook County, MN |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Waterfall | Multi-cascade in dark basalt gorge |
| Geology | 1.1 billion-year-old volcanic rock |
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this compare to Gooseberry or Temperance?
Devils Track Falls is less developed and far less crowded than Gooseberry Falls or Temperance River. The dark basalt gorge creates a moodier, more dramatic setting. It’s a local favorite for those who know the North Shore well.
Why is the North Shore so scenic?
Lake Superior’s North Shore combines billion-year-old volcanic rock, boreal forest, waterfalls, and the largest freshwater lake on Earth (by surface area). The 150-mile drive from Duluth to Grand Portage passes through landscapes that shift from hardwood forest to boreal taiga. The North Shore is Minnesota’s most beloved scenic drive.
Keep exploring: The closest neighbors are Kadunce River State Wayside (a short drive away) and C.R. Magney State Park (a short drive away).
💧 Visit Devils Track Falls
North Shore secret — cascading falls in a dark billion-year-old gorge.
About Devil’s Track Falls
Devil’s Track Falls State Wayside on Minnesota’s North Shore provides access to waterfalls on Devil’s Track River. The river carves through a deep basalt gorge before entering Lake Superior — the world’s largest freshwater lake by surface area. The name comes from Ojibwe stories of spirit tracks (Manido Bimadagakowini) along the river.
Things to Do
Viewing the falls from the wayside, hiking along the gorge, photography of the basalt canyon, birdwatching, and continuing along the spectacular North Shore drive.
Insider Tips
North Shore drama: Devils Track River cascades through a deep, narrow gorge of ancient rhyolite — the volcanic rock glows copper-red when wet. Pro tip: The name likely derives from an Ojibwe description of the river’s turbulent course through the gorge — “devil’s tracks” in the rock. Lake Superior: Minnesota’s North Shore stretches 150 miles from Duluth to the Canadian border — one of the most scenic drives in America.
Best Time to Visit
Fall: North Shore fall color (late September-early October). Spring: Snowmelt creates powerful waterfall flow. Summer: Full canopy and cool gorge. Winter: Ice climbing on frozen falls.
Wildlife & Nature
Devils Track Falls — a cascade on the Devils Track River near Grand Marais — drops through a narrow volcanic gorge. The surrounding boreal forest supports moose, black bears, and gray wolves. Brook trout inhabit the river. Common loons call from nearby lakes.
Nearby Attractions
Grand Marais — adjacent — is the gateway to the Gunflint Trail and BWCAW. Judge C.R. Magney SP — 15 miles north — has the Devil’s Kettle. Cascade River SP — 10 miles south.
Park Location
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