If you’re driving up the North Shore on 61, you can’t miss Cascade Falls. The road actually takes you directly through the park. When the speed limit drops to 40, pay attention, and pull off at the parking lot that appears. There’s only one. (Be careful when parking – the lot is short, and an SUV parked next to us made it a little dangerous trying to pull back out again, since you basically have to pull out into traffic. This might be more of an issue during the summer/busy season – at the end of August, it wasn’t that bad.)

Once you get out of your car, there’s a sign showing you the trail to take to the falls. It tells you to take the first path (the one on the left) and follow it along. My advice is to cross the little bridge and take the far path. You’ll be doing it “backwards,” but it shouldn’t be a problem. The views on the south side are much better, so if you do travel the trail in reverse, you’ll end with the more spectacular views, instead of being disappointed towards the end.

The trail isn’t that long. We stopped on our way back from Grand Marais, and spent less than half an hour there, and I still managed to take over 20 pictures. The trail isn’t handicapped-accessible, but we did see several retired couples traveling it, so it should be fun for all. Follow the trail along until you get to the main bridge, making sure to stop at all of the gated vistas along the path.

It wasn’t busy at all when we were there, but it was Monday afternoon at the very end of August, so there weren’t many people on vacation anymore. I’m not sure what it would be like in the middle of summer. Also, the water levels were low this year, and in a year with more rain, I’m sure the view would be even more spectacular.

There are a few larger falls, and many smaller ones in-between. Different kinds sure to please everyone. We strayed from the path onto the rocks and put our hands in the water. Brrr! No swimming here, either – the water travels fast, and some of the pools between falls appear very deep, with big rocks jutting out. I’d watch kids closely if you bring them.

All in all, a must-see if you’re passing through. You can also camp at the park, which we didn’t do. Check the MN DNR site for information on that.