This is what the north shore is all about
Judge C.R. Magney State Park, name for the Duluth Mayor credited with pushing for the creation of many of the state parks on the north shore, captures the essence of the north shore, and those who hike its trails soon find out why.
Where is it?
Located about 14 miles (22km) northeast of Grand Marais, the entrance to the park is on the left hand side as you’re traveling northeast.
Hiking Judge C.R. Magney (Devils Kettle)
With 7 miles of trails throughout the park, it’s the 2.5 mile round trip hike to Devil’s Kettle that takes the prize for visitors.
About .75 of a mile into the hike you’ll come across a path that cuts back behind and to the left of the main trail taking you down to the lower falls of the Brule River. While impressive, it’s only a teaser of what’s to come ahead, the Devils Kettle.
At the end of the major hike (the trail continues on as the Superior Hiking Trail) you’ll arrive at Devil’s Kettle.
About 1.25 miles in is an overlook where you can see the whole falls just before the steps that will bring you to the kettle.
Brace yourself, it’s about 200 steps down to the river and up to the top of the kettle.
Interesting info
The Devil’s Kettle falls splits the Brule River in too. While one portion of the falls clearly spills on and continues its path to Lake Superior, the Kettle, or the cauldron on the left side has no confirmed exit.
Researchers have tried with radio trackers and other methods to confirm where the water that goes into the Kettle comes out, but no one has confirmed its exit, most believe it to be somewhere in Lake Superior.
You should know
Most of the hike is moderate, however the stairs can take a lot out of you. Pace yourself, it’s worth the trip.