Devil's Kettle Trail Named One of Northern Minnesota's Top Hikes

A picturesque trail in Minnesota’s Arrowhead Region has earned national recognition, being named the top hiking trail in the country by a recent USA Today poll.

Image: Devil’s Kettle Trail | lakesuperiorcircletour.info

The Devil’s Kettle Trail, located within Judge C.R. Magney State Park, claimed the No. 1 spot in the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. Selected as one of 19 finalists by a panel of editors and travel experts, the trail secured first place after a month of public voting.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) highlighted the honor in a news release, featuring a statement from park supervisor Erin Turner-Garza: “Our visitors have always been captivated by the Devil’s Kettle Trail, and this recognition confirms what we’ve known all along — it’s one of the most unique and rewarding hikes in the country. From the peaceful walk through the north woods to the view of the waterfall that seems to defy explanation, it’s a place that sparks wonder and invites people to connect with nature in a very memorable way.”

Nestled off Highway 61 about 15 miles north of Grand Marais, the trail stretches roughly two miles along the Brule River. According to the DNR, “Along the way, hikers climb nearly 400 feet and tackle around 175 steps. The reward is two waterfalls, including the park’s crown jewel, Devil’s Kettle. Here, the river splits — the east side plunges into a pool like a traditional waterfall, while the west side vanishes into a deep, swirling hole in the rock.”