If you’re looking for a sublime Minnesota winter hike, complete with frozen waterfalls and snow-frosted rock formations, head up to the Kadunce River State Wayside near Grand Marais. This is a fantastic outdoor adventure for a Grand Marais, Minnesota, winter. Read on to see why this is one of the best hikes in Minnesota.

To get started on your winter hike in Minnesota, park at the wayside, where the Kadunce River flows under Highway 61 and commingles with the waters of Lake Superior.
Sarah Mulford/AllTrails
Before you head up the gorge, cross the highway and check out the mouth of the river. Often the lake creates stunning ice formations along the shoreline that are, themselves, worth the trip to see during winter in Minnesota.
BJR Ritz/Google
Although you’re likely to find an established winter trail in the gorge, you will be walking on layers of ice and snow. You should, therefore, use caution and consider wearing snowshoes or traction devices and using trekking poles on your hike up the gorge.
Michelle Rollins/AllTrails
At first, the river and its small valley will be wider, and you’ll enjoy a quiet hike in the north woods when you head here during winter in Minnesota.
Brian Foley/Google

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But the valley will grow narrower, and the walls of the gorge will start to rise above you on both sides. This dramatic landscape is one of many reasons why this trail is considered one of the best winter hikes in Minnesota.
Brian Foley/Google
As you follow this trail in Grand Marais MN during winter, we suggest that you stick to the sides of the gorge and avoid any open water you may encounter.
Seth Johnson/Google
As you explore this winter hike in Minnesota, you’ll encounter several small waterfalls, as well as some larger cascades.
Robert Waltz/Google
You will have to clamber over some of these on your way to the trail at the top. But with appropriate footwear and trekking poles, you shouldn’t have too much trouble.
If the frozen waterfalls weren’t enough of a reward, when you reach the top of the gorge, you’ll be treated to stunning views back down the river to Lake Superior. This breathtaking scenery makes this unique trail one of the best winter hikes in Minnesota.
Sarah Mulford/AllTrails

The canyon portion of the hike is relatively short, coming in at around a mile. To return to the parking area, you can go back the way you came, or you can follow the spur trail down along the Kadunce River that connects the Superior Hiking Trail with the wayside. After your hike, treat yourself to some of the state’s best fudge at Gunflint Mercantile in nearby Grand Marais.

If you’re looking for more to explore, take a look at these winter hikes in Minnesota too. To prepare for your outdoor adventures, check out our ultimate winter packing list, as well.

 

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More to Explore

Grand Marais MN Winter

Marla S. | December 15, 2023

What are some of the best winter hikes in Minnesota? 

Along with exploring Grand Marais MN in winter, here are some of the best winter hikes in Minnesota.

  • Upper Falls Trail In Gooseberry Falls State Park: See a waterfall and so much more when you hike this short and sweet Minnesota trail.
  • Thompson Trail in Jay Cooke State Park: You'll come across a swinging bridge and epic views when you hike this scenic intermediate-level trail.
  • High Falls Trail in Grand Portage State Park: During the winter, this half-mile trail is ideal for snowshoeing. We also suggest being camera-ready so you can grab a few shots of the stunning 120-foot frozen waterfall in the park.

 

What are some popular things to do during winter in Minnesota? 

The following list is an overview of some popular things to do during winter in Minnesota:

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Kadunce River State Wayside, Minnesota 61, Grand Marais, MN, USA