Hike to Devil's Kettle
Added by Lisa Groene
Witness a section of the Brule River disappear into the giant pothole known as the Devil's Kettle, a phenomenon that has even left geologists stumped. Enjoy solitude while hiking through the heavily wooded birch and aspen forest or Judge C.R. Magney State Park.
For those who enjoy waterfalls, the Devil's Kettle waterfall is a must see. The Devil's Kettle trail will lead you to perhaps one of Minnesota's most unusual waterfalls along the North Shore. This waterfall of the Brule River is unique in that the river splits into two; with one half dropping 50 feet before continuing downstream, while the other half dumping into a large pothole ("Devil's Kettle") and disappearing underground.
The trailhead can be accessed in the parking lot of Judge C.R. Magney State Park. The nicely maintained trail begins through a dense forest of spruce and birch. Within a short distance you will cross over a bridge that spans the Brule River and rapids. The trail continues along the Brule river with a gradual elevation (minimal), until reaching a small bench where you will come to an overlook with stunning views of the Brule River valley. Continuing on you will arrive to a bunch of wooden stairs (200 total) that lead down to the Upper Falls section of the river. From the Upper Falls, continue on the trail and head up another series of steps to reach the Devil's Kettle Falls overlook.
Ascend back up the stairs and take the trail back to the parking lot; if you wish to venture past the falls overlook there is an additional 8 miles of trail that continues to wind along the Brule river and forest. The trail eventually links up to the Superior Hiking trail at the Northeastern end of the park.
Want to stay overnight in Judge C.R. Magney SP? Get more details here.
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Join the communityReviews
Rate this AdventureBeautiful
So incredibly beautiful!!!! I could sit there for hours with music and relax in the beauty! It is pure amazement!
5.0
Lots To See
You can get lost, this park is so big. Stay on the trails and it’ll be a day hike. Go off-trail and walk the rocks - you won’t be disappointed.
4.0
Awesome Hike
The hike is a strenuous one so be prepared. The views are great and the mystery of devils kettle adds a unique element
4.0
A favorite
Love visiting Devil's Kettle and thinking about the mystery of where the water flows to! Scenic views of the river along the way.
4.0
Stunning
The views on the way up were the most beautiful sights I have ever seen. The campground was quiet from other campers but loud with nature and the moon and stars were so bright they almost were able to fully light the tent. My favorite part was the view of Devil's Kettle
4.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on.
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