grand portage state forest

It is a drive but if you have a few hours to kill, it by far is a great way to see Canada without going over the border.

We arrived at Grand Portage SF at mid-day, parked and toured the nature center. The guide was very helpful and my wife and I took the easy hike to the falls. A wonderfully well-kept trail lined with heavy fall foliage, birch and various trees all in color. The falls were magificent even with the seasonally low water. Take a jacket tho' as it sure was cold! I'm 80 and found the walk refreshing and easy. Really a recommended activity especially for photo enthusiasts!

Artifacts, life-size diaramas, historic documents, pamphlets, brochures, and walking tour of authentic and vintage buildings used during the early days of fur trading between the U.S., Canada, and Europe.

Hiking on a trail that was paved. Easy for me with recent surgery on knee. The falls was gorgeous, including the fall colors.

If you are looking for a quick, easy hike, then be sure to put this on your bucket list. It is well worth your time. Very majestic.

This hike is along the Pigeon River which is the border between MN and Ontario. Beautiful visitor center in state park which is a cooperative effort between Ojibway/Chippewa and the state of Minnesota. The visitor center has clean bathrooms, a small but nice gift shop, and a nice picnic area, Signs for the trail are clearly marked. To the right of the visitor center is an overlook of the calm Pigeon River. Just above are 20 miles of falls, cascades, and rapids The Chippewa created a nine mile portage around this stretch of the Pigeon River which trappers and Voyageurs used to transport furs and other goods carrying 90 lb. packs up and back in 6 hours. The trail to the High Falls is 1/2 mile and is handicapped accessible to one of three overlooks. The other 2 overlooks have a short series of stairs.

The park office and staff were so kind and helpful, the hike to the high falls viewing area is easy and beautiful along the way. Parking is more than adequate and the portions of the trails that are paved were a welcome sight after mostly dirt trail hiking all day!

My girlfriend and I stopped in on our way back from Thunder Bay. She, being a Northern Girl had been here before but it was something new to a country boy from Arkansas. I would have to say it is an awesome sight to see. I have seen waterfalls in multiple states but this is the best I have seen to date. Trails are very manageable. The Raspberries (first ones I had ever seen) were not quiet ripe. We will be back.

We stopped at the Visitors Center first for the Grand Portage National Monument and it is full of American history if you take the time to view the film! They have some wonderful exhibits and the center lobby is beautiful as well! The buildings at the Site make you feel you are stepping back in time. Easy access and a must see!

Easy trail with several viewing platforms at the end. Beautiful falls and plenty of opportunities for photos.

It's a 1/2 mile walk on a paved path. To see a better view there are some steps involved but for those who cannot do steps just keep going on the path and it ends at a great viewing area.

The drive up to Grand Portage is worth the trip! The visitor center and the tour through the fort was interesting. The people do a great job acting the parts. Makes it feel real.

WOW! The waterfalls are AMAZING. So beautiful! Paved trail is super nice as well! You definitely should go... WITH a camera!

There is a trail right outside the back of the visitor center just on the American side of the border crossing. Easy trail, some stairs at the end. Beautiful view of the falls. Also take the road back behind the Grand Portage Trading Post to visitor center. Walk across the road to a short trail that leads you to a reenactment area of a period fort for fur trading. Not sure if there is a cost, as we arrived at closing time and didn't go through it all, only saw the Indian area. However, we did hear it was a nice stop. But to do it first if you are going to Ft. William on the Canadian side.

Do visit here if you can, full of history with costumed guides , most intereswting and informative. Also some fabulous views and nice picnic spots.