The best walks and hikes in La Verendrye Provincial Park
5.0
(3)
83
hikers
12
hikes
Hiking in La Verendrye Provincial Park offers access to a historic waterway and fur trade route, part of the Canadian Heritage River system. The park features diverse landscapes, including scenic diabase-capped mesas and a variety of ecosystems. A significant natural feature is the "Height of Land" continental divide, where water flows to both the Atlantic and Arctic Oceans. This non-operating park provides a rugged wilderness experience with cliffs, mesas, and waterfalls.
Best hiking trails in La Verendrye Provincial Park
- The most popular hiking route is High Cliffs Overlook, a 0.8 miles (1.3 km) trail that takes about 24 minutes to complete. This easy path offers views of the park's elevated features.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Bridal Veil Falls via Crab Lake Spur, an easy 4.4 miles (7.1 km) path. This route leads through varied terrain towards a notable waterfall.
- Local hikers also love the Crab Lake Spur Trail, a 6.7 miles (10.8 km) trail leading through diverse ecosystems, often completed in about 2 hours 52 minutes.
- Hiking in La Verendrye Provincial Park is defined by historic waterways, diabase-capped mesas, and diverse ecosystems, including the Height of Land. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to moderate paths.
- The routes in La Verendrye Provincial Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from more than 3 reviews. More than 80 hikers have used komoot to explore La Verendrye Provincial Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: August 5, 2026
1.25km
00:24
80m
0m
The High Cliffs Overlook trail offers an easy hike through Superior National Forest, leading you to spectacular panoramic views. You will gain 257 feet (78 metres) in elevation over just 0.8 miles (1.3 km), making it a quick 23-minute journey. From the dramatic cliffs, you can enjoy expansive vistas, often looking out over large bodies of water like Gunflint Lake. This route provides unique perspectives of the geological features and surrounding forested hills, perfect for a short outdoor escape.
Before you head out, it is always a good idea to check local conditions for the High Cliffs Overlook. Confirm details like parking availability and any specific access information for the trailhead. Knowing your limits and taking your time on any trail is always recommended for a safe and enjoyable experience. Plan your visit by checking current weather and trail status.
This route is renowned for its panoramic vistas, showcasing the natural beauty of the Superior National Forest. You will experience the unique geological features of the area as you hike along or to the top of the dramatic cliffs. The trail's elevated positions offer broad views, making it a notable spot for appreciating the region's landscape.
1
hikers
7.12km
01:55
80m
100m
The Bridal Veil Falls via Crab Lake Spur trail offers a delightful journey through varied terrain, starting with easy, grassy paths alongside Crab Lake before transitioning to more rugged sections with rocks and roots. You'll encounter vibrant wildflowers, moss, and ferns, all leading to the stunning Bridal Falls, a true hidden gem. This 4.4-mile (7.1 km) hike, with only 267 feet (81 metres) of elevation gain, is rated easy and takes about 1 hour and 54 minutes, making it a great option for a rewarding outing without extreme effort.
Before you head out, remember that a Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA) day permit is necessary for this route, as part of it enters the wilderness area. Parking is available at the trailhead, but it's always wise to arrive early during peak times. Spring runoff offers the most spectacular views of Bridal Falls, which can span up to 100 yards wide, but be prepared for potentially muddy conditions after rain.
This trail provides a unique glimpse into forest regeneration, showcasing areas affected by the 2007 Ham Lake Fire and a 1999 blowdown, with blackened tree trunks and vibrant purple fireweed. The connection to the Border Route Trail (BRT) also offers a taste of a renowned wilderness experience, known for its rugged beauty and potential for wildlife sightings like moose or black bears.
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1
hikers
10.8km
02:52
100m
100m
The Crab Lake Spur Trail offers a fascinating journey through a recovering forest, showcasing the resilience of nature after the 2007 Ham Lake Fire. You'll traverse varied terrain, from wide, flat paths to rugged singletrack, with sections that can be muddy and rocky underfoot. The route provides picturesque views of Crab Lake and leads to the stunning Bridal Falls, making it a rewarding 6.7 miles (10.8 km) hike with 335 feet (102 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 2 hours and 51 minutes at a moderate pace. This trail is a great option if you're looking for Crab Lake Spur Trail points of interest beyond just a walk in the woods.
Planning your visit is straightforward, with the trailhead located off North Loon Lake Road. While the initial sections are relatively easy, be prepared for more challenging terrain as you get closer to Crab Lake and the Border Route Trail. The trail can be wet in spring, so waterproof footwear is advisable. Dogs are welcome on the trail, making it a fantastic choice for a dog friendly trails Crab Lake Spur adventure.
What makes this trail particularly notable is its role as a crucial access point to the longer Border Route Trail, offering a glimpse into a more extensive wilderness experience. Beyond the natural beauty, the trail provides consistent vistas, including views over Gunflint Lake and into Canada, and offers a unique perspective on forest regrowth. Keep an eye out for wildlife on Crab Lake Spur Trail, as the diverse habitat supports various species.
21
hikers
1.98km
00:31
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
850m
00:13
10m
0m
Hike the easy 0.5-mile Chik-wauk Blueberry Hill via Gneiss Trail in Superior National Forest for panoramic views and seasonal blueberry pick
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Tips from the Community
Crab Lake can be accessed from BWCAW Access Point #4, just off of County Road 404. The lake is popular for canoeing, and is an easy portage from the trailhead. There is a campsite along the Crab Lake Spur Trail that has shoreline pitches.
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Bridal Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in all of the BWCAW. The falls can be found on the Border Route Trail (BRT), and the easiest way to reach the falls is by taking the Crab Lake Spur Trail to the BRT. The falls are named after their similar appearance to a bridal veil, especially when the water is quite high.
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The Grand Portage is a nine-mile long portage that the voyageurs had to take to bypass these falls and carry their goods from Lake Superior to the canoe country waters to the west.
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The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has developed a Hiking Club program that features a trail in 68 state parks and recreational areas (https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/clubs.html). Sometimes the trailhead for these hikes can be tricky to find, so here is the trailhead for the Grand Portage State Park Hiking Club trail. There is also a marker with a password somewhere along the length of the trail, but I am not going to reveal that!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes hiking in La Vérendrye Provincial Park unique?
La Vérendrye Provincial Park is a unique destination for hikers due to its historical significance as part of an ancient fur trade route and the Canadian Heritage River system. The park features distinctive diabase-capped mesas, diverse ecosystems, and the 'Height of Land' continental divide, where water flows to both the Atlantic and Arctic Oceans. It offers a rugged, immersive wilderness experience as a non-operating park.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for families in La Vérendrye Provincial Park?
Yes, the park offers several easy trails. For instance, the High Cliffs Overlook is an easy 0.8-mile (1.3 km) path that provides scenic views of the park's elevated features and takes about 24 minutes to complete. Another easy option is Chik-wauk Blueberry Hill via Gneiss Trail, which is 0.5 miles (0.85 km) long.
Can I see waterfalls while hiking in La Vérendrye Provincial Park?
Yes, the park's diverse landscape includes scenic waterfalls. You can explore the Bridal Veil Falls via Crab Lake Spur, an easy 4.4-mile (7.1 km) route that leads through varied terrain to a notable waterfall.
What kind of geological features can I expect to see on the trails?
Hikers in La Vérendrye Provincial Park can admire several scenic diabase-capped mesas, which are distinctive geological formations. The park also protects various rare and unusual plant species, adding to the natural beauty of its diverse ecosystems.
Are there any longer or more challenging routes available?
While many trails are easy, there are moderate options for those seeking a longer hike. The Crab Lake Spur Trail is a moderate 6.7-mile (10.8 km) route that takes approximately 2 hours and 52 minutes to complete, leading through diverse ecosystems.
What is the 'Height of Land' and can I hike near it?
The 'Height of Land' is a significant natural feature traversing the park, marking the continental divide where water flows eastward to the Atlantic and westward to the Arctic Ocean. While specific trails directly on the divide aren't named in the guide, the park's network of trails allows you to experience the diverse ecosystems and waterways influenced by this unique geographical characteristic.
What do other hikers say about the trails in La Vérendrye Provincial Park?
The routes in La Vérendrye Provincial Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from more than 3 reviews. Hikers often praise the park's historic waterways, unique diabase-capped mesas, and diverse ecosystems, appreciating the rugged wilderness experience it offers.
How many hiking trails are there in La Vérendrye Provincial Park?
There are over 10 hiking trails available in La Vérendrye Provincial Park, offering a range of options from easy strolls to more moderate paths. More than 80 hikers have used komoot to explore the park's varied terrain.
Is La Vérendrye Provincial Park a good place for a wilderness hiking experience?
Absolutely. La Vérendrye Provincial Park is classified as a 'non-operating' park, meaning it generally lacks fees or staff presence. This status contributes to a more rugged and immersive wilderness experience, allowing hikers to fully connect with the natural environment, including its historic waterways, cliffs, and diverse ecosystems.
Are there any loop hikes available in the park?
Yes, for those interested in loop routes, the High Falls loop from Grand Portage State Park is an easy 1.2-mile (1.98 km) option that can be completed in about 31 minutes. This route offers a pleasant circular walk through the natural surroundings.
What is the best time of year to hike in La Vérendrye Provincial Park?
The climate in the Thunder Bay area, which encompasses La Vérendrye Provincial Park, ensures varied experiences throughout the year. Summer offers lush greenery, while autumn provides vibrant foliage, making both seasons excellent for hiking. The park's diverse ecosystems are beautiful to explore in different conditions.
Most popular routes in La Verendrye Provincial Park
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