Minnesota has mountains?!
Yep!
Believe it or not, there is more to Minnesota than the prairies. That’s what makes the north shore so incredible. Eagle Mountain is the state’s highest point and Eagle Mountain Hiking is an experience you won’t regret
Where is it?
Eagle Mountain is located in Superior National forest, northwest of Grand Marais. You can get to the trail head by heading up the Gunflint Trail. You’ll see road signs that will point you in the right direction but if you want specifics:
Head north on County Road 12 (the Gunflint Trail) for 3.5 miles. Turn left and go about 6 miles down on county Road 8. You’ll arrive at the intersection of County Road 57 and County Road 27 on the north side of Devil Track Lake. Take a right onto County Road 27, travel for 5 miles and you’ll arrive at Forest Road 153, turn left. Another 5 miles and you’re at the trail head.
Hiking Eagle Mountain
The hike is about 6 miles round trip and will take you up in elevation 554 feet.
The terrain can be difficult at times as you are covering rocky, rugged earth, in particular the last leg of the hike when you experience the largest elevation gain.
The hike takes you through some low laying, marshy areas to begin with so make sure you wear water proof shoes if traveling in the spring or after a rain.
The hike is done best in the winter to avoid bugs, however upon arrival at the top, it is substantially colder due to winds than it is at the bottom.
Interesting info
Until the mid 1960s it was believed that the highest point was actually a few miles away from Eagle Mountain, a peak you can see on your way up to the crest. In the 1890s the state geologist conducted the first survey of the area but they completely missed Eagle Mountain.
You should know
Part of the trail is in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness so you will need to fill out a day permit at the trail head.
