Tettegouche State Park is best known for the 70-foot High Falls, which is the largest waterfall entirely in the state of Minnesota. But if you’re making the trip, there is a second waterfall just a half mile down river called Two Step Falls that you’d be crazy not to see!
As it’s name implies, Two Step Falls is actually made up of two separate cascades, one after the other, creating a nice stair-step effect. Depending on the time of year and your point of access (see below), it isn’t always possible to see them both. But that doesn’t keep this waterfall from being a worthwhile stop on your North Shore waterfall itinerary!
Two Step Falls – Tettegouche State Park Hiking Guide
Parking
Most people access Two Step Falls by parking at the Tettegouche State Park visitor center on Highway 61. This gives you access to the bottom of the falls from a trail approaching the north-east side of the river. However, Two Step Falls can also be accessed via a short trail from the Baptism River Campground on the opposite side of the river. Approaching from the campground puts you between the two steps of the waterfall. Our guide assumes you are starting from the Visitor Center.
Once you have parked your car, the start of the trail will be just a couple hundred feet up the road on your right. If you reach the bridge over the Baptism River, you’ve gone too far! Look for the staircase in the image below, with signage for both High Falls and Two Step Falls. Note: If you’re interested in seeing both Two Step Falls and High Falls on the same hike, check out our High Falls Hiking Guide.
The Trail
Two Step & High Falls Trailhead to Two Step Falls Junction
The trail to Two Step Falls is about 1 mile long, with a gradual incline most of the way. It begins by dipping beneath the Highway 61 overpass (photo below). From there, a well-maintained trail takes you through the woods, with the Baptism River out of sight to your left. This section of trail is wide, well-worn, and has nice boardwalks in several places to avoid more challenging terrain. Families with kids and/or pets will find this to be an extremely approachable hike.
Descent to Two Step Falls
After 1 mile, you will reach a fork in the trail (see below). Continuing straight (the right side of the fork) will take you another half mile to the High Falls (again, check out our guide here). Instead, you’ll be taking a 90-degree turn to the left.
The trail will now begin to descend towards Two Step Falls. At first, the slope is gradual, with a few stairs sprinkled in. Soon enough, however, you will come to a continuous, winding staircase made up of close to two hundred steps! This takes you on a steep, quad-burning descent to the Baptism River. Take your time, take deep breaths, hydrate, and you’ll make it down before you know it!
Once you reach the bottom of your stairs, you’ll find yourselves at a wide pool on the Baptism River. To your right, you’ll see the bottom “step” of Two Step Falls (photo below).
After you’ve enjoyed the sights and sounds of Two Step Falls, its time to make your way back up the stairs. If you are continuing to the High Falls, you’ll take a left at the top of the stairs and continue inland. Although, if you’ve come this far and miss out on High Falls, we may have to have a talk! Kidding. If you’ve had enough adventure for one day, you’ll turn right and come back the way you came.
Conclusion
Despite being overshadowed by it’s bigger, more famous brother, Two Step Falls is a beautiful North Shore Waterfall, made more unique by the multiple points of access. The short length and accessibility of this hike make Two Step a no-brainer for anyone looking to make the most out of Tettegouche State Park. Get out there and enjoy it!
Two Step Falls Tettegouche State Park Day Hike – Summary & Trail Stats
- Trail System – Tettegouche State Park / Superior Hiking Trail
- Distance – 2 miles out and back, 1 mile each way
- Elevation Gain – approximately 300 feet (nearly one third of this is on the stairs)
- Best For – day hikers who love waterfalls looking for a quick hike
- May Not Be Great For – people with bad knees or who have trouble on stairs
Getting to Tettegouche State Park
From Duluth
- Follow Highway 61 northbound from Duluth, MN for 59.5 miles
- Turn into Tettegouche State Park visitor center
From Grand Marais
- Follow Highway 61 southbound from Grand Marais, MN for 51.1 miles
- Turn left into the Tettegouche State Park visitor center
For Your GPS
Tettegouche Visitor Center, 5702 MN-61, Silver Bay, MN 55614
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