Cross River Falls
Cross River Falls is one of the easiest waterfalls to visit along Minnesota’s North Shore. It is worth the stop, just off Highway 61, and won’t take much time out of your day. In fact, the upper falls can easily be seen from a car while driving along the highway. The real beauty, however, will take a bit more effort to see!
Cross River Falls
Just southwest of the Temperance River State Park in Schroeder, these falls are part of a wayside park that is actually larger than the nearby state park. The falls are literally within feet of Highway 61 and can be seen from the highway. The first set of falls are up along the Superior Hiking Trail, but the big portion of the falls is found at the wayside park.
To reach the falls, use the handy pedestrian bridge from the Wayside rest. Just like any other waterfall, the best time to view them is in the spring or after a heavy rainfall when the river is rushing at an incredible rate. However, these falls are big enough that they even rush at full speed during the summer and fall months, as well.
There’s a special present hidden from your sight when you’re standing on the bridge. Walking to the other side of the road (toward Lake Superior), you’ll notice a trail that leads down to another portion of the river. From there you’ll be able to see the second drop of the falls at an amazing angle that most spectators often overlook. You may have to do some rock-hopping to get there, but the experience is worth it. You’ll even get a glimpse of Lake Superior through the trees!
A Waterfall Season Must-See
We consider Cross River Falls a Waterfall Season must-see because it’s easy to get to. While trails and pathways to other waterfalls may be icy or muddy during the season, the upper part of the Cross River Falls is easily accessible. It’s a great choice for anyone with mobility issues and just wants to see a pretty waterfall. Personally, we use the Cross River Falls as our guide for how “open” the water is during Waterfall Season. Once Cross River opens up, we know that other waterfalls in the area will be putting on a show, as well.
Another Cross River Must-See
While not as visually spectacular as the waterfall, the mouth of the Cross River is home to Father Baraga’s Cross. Learn a little bit about North Shore history by visiting the cross. Turn towards Lake Superior onto Baraga Cross Road and take the road to the end.
How to get there
The Cross River Falls are located right in the village of Schroeder, Minnesota. You’ll see this waterfall as you drive on Highway 61. There are two large parking lots on either side of the falls. One on the north side of Highway 61 and one on the south side. Park your car in one of the parking lots and view the falls from the pedestrian bridges. You’ll get a great birds-eye view of the upper waterfall.