Open year round; offers naturalist and interpretive programs, exhibits, restrooms and a gift shop
In the summer, Gooseberry Falls State Park is a veritable hub of video camera wielding vacationers. For many this is the first stop along the way. A must-see look over the bridge rewards sightseers with waterfalls on both sides. A short walk either up or down the river showcases the Upper, Middle and Lower Falls while a nice hike takes you on a loop that includes the Fifth Falls. Inside the beautiful visitors center are naturalist programs, interactive exhibits, restrooms, and a gift shop. The visitors center is the main trailhead in the park.
But Gooseberry Falls is hardly a one-season stop. Spring runoff and fall colors are grand, but the true splendor of the park comes through along the wintery cross-country ski trails. Trust me on this one.
Park is open daily 8am – 10pm; buy a vehicle permit online, record your confirmation number and place it on your car’s dashboard.
Be prepared. Bring your own water, soap, hand sanitizer, disinfectants, towels and toilet paper.
Main campground open with some sites closed, group camps closed through at least August 3; firewood is available; no ice will be sold in 2020.
Parks are getting extremely busy every day and it may not be possible to practice good social distancing. Be extra careful in parking areas, around signs and toilets, and on narrow trails, fishing piers and bridges where people tend to cluster. If you see a lot of cars in the parking lot or at the trailhead, turn around and find someplace else for outdoor recreation.
Modern restrooms at Visitor Center are open as are vault toilets in Lady Slipper & Lakeview Lodge parking lots. [note – these 2 buildings are closed].
Open year round; offers naturalist and interpretive programs, exhibits, restrooms and a gift shop
The park offers a fireplace and a place to change into your ski equipment in the visitor center
Open late spring to late-October
Five waterfalls tumble down the river from north of Highway 61 down to Lake Superior
Several buildings & the original bridge are part of the Civilian Conservation Corp and are on the National Register of Historic Places; self-guided Historic CCC Tour map
The park has two shelters available for rent – call to make reservations
The Lakeview Shelter has picnic tables and restroom facilities and is suitable for picnics / receptions.
The Lady Slipper Lodge has benches and is suitable for programs or ceremonies.
20 miles; several trails to waterfalls, overlooks, up the river and down to Lake Superior
In the river and on Lake Superior; a trout stamp is required along with a MN fishing license.
20K; all groomed for classic (diagonal) stride; mostly moderate trails with some easy and a short difficult trail
2 miles which connects to the North Shore State Trail
Anywhere in the park except on the xc-ski trails, the Gitchi Gummi is a designated intermediate trail and the Fifth Falls is a designated advanced trail
Near the pedestrian entrance to the visitor center on back side of lot. Free charging.
