Gooseberry Falls

theresa moore

This is a beautiful natural wonder! It’s unique in that it’s very accessible. You can actually walk out onto the rocks and put your feet in the water, and really explore. It would be nice if there was a little more signage along the pathways - the map we were given is not very functional, and they’re such a network of paths that it can be become confusing. We were there on a weekend in early fall, and the place was overrun with leaf peepers! I don’t know if it’s always that busy, to me that was the only drawback. You could hardly get a photo of the falls without people in it. During peak season, mid week might be less busy. They have a lovely visitor center and gift shop, and nice restrooms.

Neil Breiland

Been coming here my entire life, and it’s always consistently amazing. The scenes are beautiful, the facilities are clean, the staff are great when you interact, etc. The only downside we’ve had recently is you have to have reservations about a year in advance (no exaggeration). But otherwise the trails are great, and I’m sad I didn’t take more pictures on the falls trail. Came here at the time of this posting in the beginning of the fall where the temps were perfect and there were little to no bugs. The sites are also clean and roomy, with what seems to be a complementary big rock in all the sites I’ve been to 🤣. For me this is by far the best state park I’ve ever been to.

Scott Brockopp

Beautiful as ever. The river was high enough that the falls were fantastic. The trails appear wild and untouched and beautifully manicured at the same time. Plenty of dirt hiking and boardwalk and stairs so most anyone can have a good hike and great access to views. Not a spec of trash anywhere.

Sara Lander

The Upper, middle, and lower falls are usually very busy in the summer, even on a weekday. But the falls are worth it to see. We went in late July and after a week with a lot of rain, so there was water flowing over the falls, which makes it that much better. It does lead to some muddy or wet spots on the trails, but nothing that can't be navigated. Highly recommend making the short hike to the Fifth falls. If you do, I recommend the trail on the East/North side of the river. It is less steps and seemed easier. It also has the best views of the falls. This area is a LOT less crowded and was actually my favorite part of the park. A quick picnic by the Lakeview picnic shelter is nice, with a very short walk to the lake and river. I will make this a place I must visit every summer, one of my favorites.

Hoshun Lam

Gooseberry Falls is a must-visit gem along Minnesota’s North Shore, offering natural beauty and easy access that makes it perfect for families. The main attraction, of course, is the stunning waterfall—its powerful flow and cool waters are mesmerizing and provide the perfect backdrop for a fun and memorable outing. The short hike from the parking lot is easy, taking about 10 minutes along a well-maintained path. It’s just enough to stretch your legs without tiring out the kids, and the scenery along the way is beautiful, with views of the river, forest, and rocky terrain. Once at the falls, there’s plenty of space for everyone to explore. Kids (and adults!) will love climbing over the smooth rocks, splashing in the water, and getting up close to the rushing cascades. It’s the kind of place where you can spend hours just enjoying nature. The visitor center is also very well done, with informative displays, helpful staff, and clean, modern bathrooms—always a big plus when traveling with family. Whether you’re stopping for a quick visit or making a day of it, Gooseberry Falls is a wonderful spot to soak in the outdoors, take photos, and enjoy a peaceful slice of Minnesota’s natural beauty.