OK, so you’ve been looking into the must-see waterfalls of Tettegouche State Park. You’ve read our guide on hiking to the majestic High Falls. You know that it’s worth the energy to duck down to Two Step Falls along the way. You’ve made sure to add a short hike to the under-appreciated Cascades waterfall.
But did you know that there is one other gorgeous waterfall to check out within Tettegouche State Park? Just a few miles away from the Visitor Center on Highway 1 lies a hidden little gem called Illgen falls.
Illgen Falls is easily the most accessible waterfall within Tettegouche State Park. Geographically, it is just upstream on the Baptism River from the High Falls, but the access point from Highway 1 means your total round trip is maybe a tenth of a mile! This makes it perfect for families with small children or people who are in a hurry to get further up the shore.
Take a peek at this brief guide for everything you need to know to see the Illgen Falls waterfall!
Illgen Falls – Tettegouche State Park Hiking Guide
Parking
Using the Tettegouche State Park Visitor Center as a reference point, Illgen Falls is located 2.2 miles away. Head north on Highway 61 for a half mile and turn left on Highway 1. After about a mile and half, you will see an enlarged left shoulder on the road with space to park. The short, well-maintained trail is marked by a sign right off of the parking lot.
The Trail to Illgen Falls
The Shortest Trail Tale We’ll Ever Tell
The signage for Illgen Falls in the picture above indicates a distance of .1 miles. That may be generous. At a walking pace, it is probably about a 2 minute walk from your car to the top of the waterfall.
On your way, you will cross a service road. Look to your left for a look at the historic Illgen Falls cabin. This simple, yet aesthetic log cabin is available for rent here, and is a perfect place to stay near Tettegouche. Availability is limited, of course, so book well in advance!
Exploring Illgen Falls
Before you know it, you’ll find yourself near the top of the Illgen Falls waterfall. This 40-foot cascade, while smaller than its big brother downstream, is a beautiful spot to relax. The pictures below were taken in late July during one of the driest summers I can remember, so you can imagine what it looks like in spring of after heavy rain.
While the walk to the waterfall itself is short, the area around Illgen falls offers plenty to explore. Some slightly underdeveloped trails lead down to the pool below the waterfall, offering a chance to jump in and cool off (at your own risk, of course – river conditions are always changing and can be dangerous, resulting in injury or even death).
Heading upriver from Illgen Falls, you’ll find a trail that hugs the river for perhaps a third of a mile before becoming overgrown (at which point, I’m told, you are on private property and should turn around). Just before this, you’ll come to another pool area flanked by two 10-15 rocks. One of these is apparently called Devil’s Rock, according to maps of Tettegouche State Park. On a busy day when lots of people are in the area nearest the waterfall, this can be a good backup for a place to cool off.
Once you’re done exploring the area around Illgen Falls, take a short walk back your car and enjoy the rest of your day on Minnesota’s North Shore!
Illgen Falls – Summary & Trail Stats
- Trail System – Tettegouche State Park
- Distance – .2 miles total (out and back)
- Elevation Gain – Approximately 100 feet
- Best For – any North Shore waterfall seekers who aren’t up for a long or strenuous adventure. Families with kids.
Getting to Illgen Falls
From Duluth
- Follow Highway 61 northbound from Duluth, MN for 60 miles
- Turn left onto Highway 1 towards Finland
- Follow Highway 1 for 1.5 miles
From Grand Marais
- Follow Highway 61 southbound from Grand Marais, MN for 50.5 miles
- Turn right onto Highway 1 towards Finland
- Follow Highway 1 for 1.5 miles
For Your GPS
5939 State Hwy 1, Silver Bay, MN 55614
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