Minnesota’s Boundary Waters is famous for its pristine water trails. Picture canoes gliding across glassy lakes and campsites along the shoreline. But beyond the paddling routes lies a network of incredible hiking trails that offer a whole new way to experience this iconic wilderness.
Whether you’re looking for a quick day hike or a multiday backcountry adventure, these Boundary Waters trails deliver solitude, scenery, and a deeper connection to the Northwoods — all without a single portage.
Eagle Mountain Trail
Get a taste of what the Boundary Waters is all about on a relatively short yet moderately challenging day hike near Grand Marais. The 6.6-mile Eagle Mountain Trail crosses through rugged forest, over wetlands via boardwalks, and past scenic Whale Lake en route to Eagle Mountain.
At 2,301 feet, this peak is the highest in the state. To reach the summit, hikers will take on the bulk of the 656 feet of elevation gain at the last part of this out-and-back trail.
After your hike, head into town to grab a bite and explore the art and culture of the North Shore of Lake Superior.
Explore Grand Marais
Caribou Rock Trail
Farther north near the Canadian border, the Caribou Rock Trail lets day hikers venture deeper into the Boundary Waters. At 7.7 miles, this route can easily work as a half-day hike, but with so many incredible viewpoints along the way, locals recommend carving out more time to fully experience the trail.
The trail’s namesake, Caribou Rock, pops up within 0.75 miles of the trailhead. From there, the route forges ahead through the forest with a mix of ascent and descent — a 1,505-foot elevation gain in total. Stop at Duncan Lake for a snack with a side of outstanding views before continuing onto Rose Falls at the turnaround.
The Caribou Rock Trailhead is located along the Gunflint Trail National Scenic Byway. Drive 55 miles down the paved road for even more access to Minnesota’s natural beauty.
Explore the Gunflint Trail
Angleworm Lake Trail
The 13.1-mile Angleworm Lake Trail toes the line between an ambitious day hike and a one-night backpacking trip. From the trailhead, the lollipop-style trail travels nearly 3 miles before reaching the lake, where hikers can loop around the long, skinny body of water in either direction.
Along the way, narrow boardwalks help hikers cross swampy areas. While this route is generally easier to follow than some trails in the area, conditions may require navigation skills.
On the way to and from the trailhead, you’ll drive through Ely. With access to more than 20 portages, this Northwoods town is a true gateway to the Boundary Waters. Don’t miss the chance to pitstop here and experience the Northwoods culture, including folk art and educational wildlife encounters.
Explore Ely
Sioux-Hustler Trail
Just outside Voyageurs National Park, the Sioux-Hustler Trail immerses hikers in the wilderness of Minnesota. Plan a multiday backpacking trip to tackle this difficult 31.2-mile loop trail. Because the trail winds through wetlands, navigation skills are a must, but skilled hikers willing to take on the challenge are rewarded with incredible natural beauty along the way.
Some highlights along the way: Devil’s Cascade, which drops 75 feet into Lower Pauness Lake, and the chance to see the Northern Lights.
Explore Minnesota’s Dark Skies
Kekekabic Trail
Hike through the heart of the Boundary Waters on the 38.6-mile Kekekabic Trail, locally known as The Kek. Because the trailheads on either terminus of the point-to-point route are approximately 4.5 hours apart by car, this multiday trip requires some logistical work. But the natural beauty is well worth the effort, with scenic lakes, boulder fields, and waterfalls all on the list of Kek must-sees.
The Kek overlaps with the North Country Trail (NCT) — the longest national trail in the country, which traverses 4,800 miles across eight states and includes nearly 850 miles of trail in Minnesota.
Explore the North Country Trail
This post was sponsored by Explore Minnesota.
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