I love visiting the North Shore of Minnesota along Lake Superior. It’s a beautiful drive and there are so many stops along the way, whether it be for waterfalls, wildlife viewing, or enjoying the lake. I’ve visited twice and look forward to the day when I go back.
Right off of Minnesota 61 near Lutsen is the Poplar River. There must be multiple waterfalls further upstream as I’ve referred to this one (from other waterfall hunters) as the lower falls. It’s easily viewed by a stop at the Lutsen Resort. In 2015, it was allowed to visit the area without staying at the resort. If that’s changed, please respect the property. After parking the car, we went looking for the falls toward the Poplar River.
It wasn’t difficult to find the falls. They’re pretty obvious as you’re walking along the riverside. You may also be able to see the falls from some of the pedestrian bridges that cross the river. The falls aren’t anything wildly interesting compared to some of the other falls along the North Shore, but it’s still a worthwhile quick stop as they are easily viewed and accessed.
Directions:
- Head north along MN-61 past Tofte and into/approaching Lutsen. If headed north, the Lutsen Resort will be on the right side of the road.
- You’ll take a turn onto Resort Road and head toward Lake Superior on Cliffhouse Road.
- Don’t go any further than the resort. There’s parking on the lake side of the resort. You can get out, walk to Lake Superior, or check out the Poplar River and the lower falls.
Accessibility: 10/10 (easy)
Height: 15′
Length of Hike: 0.1 miles round-trip
Where in the World is Lower Poplar River Falls?
The Waterfall Record 