Gooseberry Falls State Park is the first State Park you hit traveling up the North Shore after leaving Duluth. Located 13 miles north of Two Harbors on Highway 61, Gooseberry Falls State Park a quick turn off of the highway which is very well marked with signs. Follow signs for Falls parking.

You can stop by the Visitor’s Center to pick up a map of the park, visit some of the exhibits they have, or attend some of the naturalists programs they offer. After heading out, follow the signs for the Middle/Lower falls. It is about .3 miles to the popular Middle Falls. The path is paved the entire way and is wheelchair accessible.

Once you reach the falls, there is plenty to explore. The water level of the falls varies frequently, but if it is low enough, it is easy to walk through the shallow water and over the rocks to get close to the base of the falls. You can follow stairs to descend further along the river to see the lower falls. Alternatively, you can continue climbing the stairs and follow a path for about .3 miles to reach the Upper Falls. The short traveling distance is attractive to the many tourists that make Gooseberry Falls their first stop along the North Shore.

Avoid the Crowds
During the summer months, Gooseberry is very crowded as it is known as the “gateway to the North Shore.” To avoid crowds, try to get to the park during the earlier morning hours. Visiting during other seasons can also help avoid the large crowds and provide a nice change in scenery. The falls freeze over in the winter, but if you explore during these times be aware that the river ice is never completely safe. There is also a 2 mile round-trip hike to the park’s Fifth Falls that is often less crowded.