Tucked away in the northeastern region of Minnesota, about an hour from Duluth, lies the beautiful Tettegouche State Park.
Covering an area of 9,346 acres, the park is known for its scenic beauty, recreational opportunities, and historical significance.
This Minnesota state park also features a range of natural habitats, including lakes, rivers, forests, and cliffs that are home to several species of wildlife, including birds, deer, and wolves.
Visitors to Tettegouche State Park can enjoy activities like hiking, camping, fishing, boating, and cross-country skiing. There are also several hiking trails available, including the iconic Shovel Point trail, which offers breathtaking views of Lake Superior and the surrounding landscape.
Activities
Guests at Tettegouche State Park can engage in a myriad of outdoor recreational pursuits whilst visiting there.
Outlined below is a brief selection of the many activities you can do while at the park.
Boating at Tettegouche State Park
Boating is a popular activity at Tettegouche State Park and there are two main lakes where you can do this.
It is important to note that motorized boats are allowed on Michael Larson Lake, but not on Baptism River Lake. There you can only take non-motorized boats like canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards onto the water.
Visitors are welcome to bring their own boats or rent boats at the park.
Swimming at Tettegouche State Park
Swimming is possible at Tettegouche State Park in Minnesota, although there are no designated swimming areas in the park.
That said, visitors can swim in the park’s two main lakes, but they should be aware that as they are not lifeguarded, they will be doing so at their owners risk. If you do take to the water, it is worth wearing a lifejacket if you are not a confident swimmer.
Visitors should also be mindful that water quality and conditions can vary depending on the time of year they visit.
Fishing at Tettegouche State Park
If you love fishing then you will revel in the opportunities Tettegouche State Park provides.
The two main lakes, are stocked with a variety of fish species, including northern pike, bass, and panfish. The park also provides access to the nearby Lake Superior, where visitors can fish for species such as lake trout, brook trout, and salmon.
Visitors should be aware that fishing regulations vary by season and body of water, and holding a Minnesota fishing license is mandatory.
Additionally, visitors are encouraged to practice catch-and-release fishing to help maintain healthy fish populations and preserve the park’s natural resources.
Hiking at Tettegouche State Park
For those who want to explore the park on foot there are several miles of trails you can tackle. These range in terms of degrees of difficulty and length, but they do provide a hike that suits various abilities and interests.
Some of the most popular trails at the park include the Shovel Point Trail, the Illgen Falls Trail, and the Palisade Valley Trail. All of them offer breathtaking views of a different part of the park, including forests, lakes, rivers, and cliffs.
Hikers can enjoy scenic vistas of Lake Superior and the nearby North Shore. In addition, they can also hike to the park’s iconic High Falls, a 60-foot waterfall that is a popular destination for visitors.
When tackling the trails, it is important for visitors to wear appropriate footwear, bring plenty of water, and wear sunscreen and mosquito spray as appropriate.
Birding at Tettegouche State Park
Birding is a big drawcard at the park with many enthusiasts coming from all over Minnesota and the surrounding states to partake in this activity.
The park is home to a diverse range of bird species, including both migratory and resident birds.
Depending on the time of year in which you may visit, you can spot many species of songbirds, waterfowl, and raptors within the park’s forests, lakes, and rivers.
In particular, the park’s High Falls area is known for its resident Peregrine Falcons, which can be seen nesting on the cliffs. The park’s proximity to Lake Superior also provides opportunities to observe a variety of coastal and migratory birds, including seabirds and shorebirds.
Pets
Pets are allowed at Tettegouche State Park, but with certain restrictions.
They must be kept on a leash that is no longer than six feet at all times and are not allowed on park trails or in park buildings.
Additionally, owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets and for ensuring that they do not disturb wildlife or other visitors.
Pets are also allowed in drive-in campsites and in the Tettegouche Camp, but not in the backpack campsites.
Camping
For those who want to stay a few nights, the park offers an excellent range of options for camping. This includes drive-in campsites, backpack campsites, and the Tettegouche Camp, which is a historic lodge that provides lodging for visitors.
Drive-in campsites are located in the park’s main campground and offer amenities such as fire rings, picnic tables, and access to toilets and drinking water. The backpack campsites are located along the park’s trails and are specifically designed for backpackers and hikers.
If you would prefer a more upscale accommodation experience, the Tettegouche Camp is a historic lodge located on the shores of Lake Superior. It offers a unique camping experience with modern amenities that provides you with plenty of home comforts.
Park Location
Tettegouche State Park
5702 MN-61
Silver Bay, MN 55614
Phone: 218.353.8800
Map
Video
Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Tettegouche State Park:
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