Most People Aren't Aware Of This Charming Waterfall Hiding In Minnesota
By Betsy Rathburn|Published July 16, 2017
×
Betsy Rathburn
Author
Betsy is a Minneapolis-based writer who's lived in Minnesota for 20 years. If you know of any amazing Minnesota restaurants, nature areas, or other attractions, feel free to let her know about them at brathburn@onlyinyourstate.com or on Twitter @betsyrathburn.
Minnesota has many incredible waterfalls. Gooseberry Falls is one of our most popular state parks. And you can’t go to Minnehaha Falls on a nice summer day without running into a crowd. But what if you’re looking for a waterfall that not many people know about? One idea is to visit Shadow Falls, a waterfall hiding in a gorge in a little-known St. Paul park. It may be smaller than Minnehaha, but this waterfall is well worth the visit.
Shadow Falls Park was created in 1902 after the land was donated to the city of St. Paul. By that time, it was already a well-known spot for spending a day outside.
Betsy Rathburn/Only In Your State
The 18 acres of land it sits on was left as it was until 1923, when a monument to World War I was placed in thepark.
Betsy Rathburn/Only In Your State
Advertisement
But aside from a few paths and the platform overlooking the Mississippi River, Shadow Falls Park is still undeveloped.
Betsy Rathburn/Only In Your State
Advertisement
So how do you get to the waterfall? Take one of the many dirt paths leading away from the main park area.
Betsy Rathburn/Only In Your State
The paths wind across the top of a deep ravine along the river. Many of these paths are steep and full of ruts, so you need to step carefully to be safe.
Betsy Rathburn/Only In Your State
You'll be surrounded by trees and wildlife on all sides. On a recent visit on a nice Saturday afternoon, there were no other hikers along the path.
The first path down from the viewing platform leads down to a large, relatively flat area overlooking the river. It's a nice spot to take photos or just rest and enjoy the scenery.
Betsy Rathburn/Only In Your State
Next, you'll want to continue on the path. If you are facing the river, the waterfall is to the right. Take the path to the left, and you'll run into a deep gorge lined with smooth stones. It's a difficult climb down, but it's an interesting view from the top.
Betsy Rathburn/Only In Your State
Advertisement
Continue back in the other direction, and you'll soon hear the trickle of the waterfall. Soon, you'll find yourself walking along the edge of a deep gorge.
Betsy Rathburn/Only In Your State
You will soon see Shadow Falls as it cascades over layers limestone, shale, and sandstone. Surrounded by trees all around, it's one of the most secluded places in the city.
Betsy Rathburn/Only In Your State
The waterfall is small - and a bit hard to see from far away - but it is a beautiful sight.
Betsy Rathburn/Only In Your State
Under the quiet canopy of trees, continue on to the top of the falls. Here, you'll spot Shadow Creek. Step over it to follow the path towards the bottom of this waterfall that you can walk behind.
Betsy Rathburn/Only In Your State
Depending on the season, the waterfall could be a trickle or a steady stream. Either way, following the path to the bottom is a truly magical experience for those who brave the rugged path along the steep gorge.
Despite the rough path, Shadow Falls is a beautiful and quiet place to spend a summer day. Ever been there? Let us know what you thought in the comments below!
