Day Trips from Duluth
← All Duluth day tripsDay Trips from Duluth: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Duluth, MN. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
12 waterfalls near Duluth
Tettegouche State Park
Silver Bay, MN 55614
Just 1 hr 7 min from Duluth, rated 4.9 stars by 4,369 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Gooseberry Falls State Park
Two Harbors, MN 55616
Just 46 min from Duluth, rated 4.9 stars by 10,769 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Jay Cooke State Park
Carlton, MN 55718
Just 24 min from Duluth, rated 4.9 stars by 3,760 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Temperance River State Park
Schroeder, MN 55613
Just 1 hr 29 min from Duluth, rated 4.9 stars by 1,442 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Willow Falls
WI 54016, USA
Just 2 hrs 30 min from Duluth, rated 4.8 stars by 778 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Lost Creek Falls
Cornucopia, WI 54827
Just 1 hr 18 min from Duluth, rated 4.8 stars by 330 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Gooseberry Falls
Silver Creek Township, MN 55616
Just 47 min from Duluth, rated 4.8 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Big Manitou Falls
Superior, WI 54880
Just 30 min from Duluth, rated 4.8 stars by 411 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Copper Falls State Park
Mellen, WI 54546
Just 1 hr 43 min from Duluth, rated 4.8 stars by 2,395 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
High Falls
5702 MN-61, Silver Bay
Just 1 hr 14 min from Duluth, rated 4.8 stars by 222 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Amnicon Falls State Park
South Range, WI 54874
Just 27 min from Duluth, rated 4.8 stars by 2,089 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Willow River State Park
Hudson, WI 54016
Just 2 hrs 29 min from Duluth, rated 4.7 stars by 4,221 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from Duluth
What are the best waterfalls near Duluth, MN?
The best waterfalls near Duluth range from roadside cascades to backcountry falls requiring a hike. Check the cards above for top-rated options with drive times and real visitor ratings.
Are there swimmable waterfalls near Duluth?
Some waterfalls near Duluth have designated swimming areas at their base. Always check current conditions and posted rules before swimming. State park waterfalls with established trails are generally the safest options.
How hard are the hikes to waterfalls near Duluth?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Duluth are visible from parking areas or short boardwalks. Others require moderate to strenuous hikes of 2-6 miles round trip. Check individual trail descriptions before heading out.
When is the best time to see waterfalls near Duluth?
Spring (March-May) typically offers the highest water flow after snowmelt and rain. Waterfalls are beautiful year-round though. Winter ice formations are dramatic, and fall foliage framing a waterfall is hard to beat.
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