Minnesota may not be known for its mountains, but the Land of 10,000 Lakes still has a few tricks up its sleeve. Besides our beautiful lakes, there are plenty of other natural formations that make the landscape one of the best in the United States. One of our favorites is a moderately easy trail up Eagle Mountain. The trail up its gently sloping expanse will take you to the top of Minnesota — as close as you can get to the top of the world in this state.
Way up in northern Minnesota, a beautiful trail will take you to the tallest point in the state. It is located in the Superior National Forest, with part of the trail in the Boundary Waters. The nearest towns are Tofte and Grand Marais.
Phil/Flickr
The Eagle Mountain trailhead starts on the north side of FR170. Get there by following County Road 4 north from MN 61. Turn right at FR170, and drive for about 3 miles until you reach the parking lot.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
When you get there, you’ll need to buy a permit. For a day hike, you’ll be able to get one right in the trailhead parking lot.
NorthernExpat/TripAdvisor
Permit in hand, you’ll be ready head down the trail. You’ll immediately be immersed in the beautiful northern wilderness.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
There are often wildflowers lining the path.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
All of the foliage will be perfectly backdropped by crystal-clear lakes. Wildlife may make an appearance, but you’re likely to be left alone as you travel deeper into the woods.
Karla T/TripAdvisor
There are also marshy, muddy, and rocky areas. Be sure to bring shoes that can handle wet conditions!
yadem.hayseed/Flickr
It is a 3.5-mile hike to reach the top of Eagle Mountain. Your hike there and back will be 7 miles in total.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
Most of the hike consists of moderate inclines along a wilderness trail. It is not paved, so expect some rugged terrain.
Paul Wassmund/AllTrails
The most strenuous part of the hike is right before you reach the summit. The trail becomes steep for about half a mile.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
But when you finally reach the top, you’ll be able to see for miles around. At 2,301 above sea level, you will stand on top of Minnesota!
Justin Meissen/Flickr
Eagle Mountain is one of the most beautiful hikes in all of Minnesota. When you reach the summit, it will feel like the top of the world! What are your other favorite hikes in the Land of 10,000 Lakes?
Phil/Flickr
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
NorthernExpat/TripAdvisor
Karla T/TripAdvisor
yadem.hayseed/Flickr
Paul Wassmund/AllTrails
Justin Meissen/Flickr
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