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About Snake Falls
Snake Falls at coordinates 48.3886, -92.1722 is a relatively remote cascade feature in the border region near Soudan, Tower and Ely. Sources and local references are inconsistent about jurisdiction; the coordinates place the feature in the general Superior National Forest / Boundary Waters area (U.S. Minnesota) rather than well-documented Ontario parklands. There is not a widely published, maintained trail or official park page for this specific named fall, so many details (height, formal access route) are not well documented and may vary by season. Visitors should treat access as remote/backcountry and verify local land/forest authority before travel.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Snake Falls flows over hard metamorphic rock, primarily marble and iron formation, laid down over 2.5-3.2 billion years ago. The softer siltstone and mudstone erodes faster than the resistant marble and iron formation, creating a ledge that the water plunges over.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
There is no reliably documented maintained trail to Snake Falls at the provided coordinates. Approaches reported by visitors to similarly remote falls in the region typically involve driving on unpaved forest roads followed by an off-trail bushwhack along creeks or short social paths. Expect uneven terrain, downed trees, boggy ground in low areas and potentially steep banks near the watercourse. If you rely on a GPS point, plan on route-finding skills and topographic maps.
What to Expect
A small to medium cascade or series of drops on a tributary stream. Flow will be seasonal, highest during spring snowmelt and after heavy rain, reduced in late summer or drought conditions. Terrain is forested boreal/near-boreal with mixed conifers and birch, rocky stream banks, and possible marshy low spots. Insects (black flies, mosquitoes) can be heavy in late spring/early summer. Expect limited or no cell phone coverage in many spots.
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible. Access likely requires uneven, off-trail walking and possibly stream crossings; not suitable for visitors requiring accessible routes.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Snake Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Snake Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring (high water from snowmelt) for the most dramatic flow; early fall for lower crowds and fall color. Summer offers warm weather but may have lower flows late season and more insects. Winter can provide attractive frozen features but access can be difficult or require snowshoes/skins and winter travel skills.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with the managing park or local authority for current conditions.
Safety Information
Hazards may include: slippery and unstable rock near the falls, steep banks, rapidly changing water levels after rain or spring melt, limited or no cell reception, poor weather and cold water temperatures, ticks and black flies in season, and potential encounters with large wildlife. Travel prepared, avoid approaching cliff edges, do not climb wet rocks near drops, and do not attempt to swim near falls. Due to limited documentation, assume a backcountry environment and plan accordingly.
Current Water Conditions
328.0 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 103 years of record
362.09 m
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
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Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Use a GPS to navigate to 48.3886, -92.1722. The nearest towns by road are Soudan (~30.8 miles), Tower (~32.8 miles) and Ely (~37.2 miles). Access is likely via forest service or logging roads and then by cross-country travel; there does not appear to be a widely published marked trailhead. A high-clearance 4x4 may be required for unpaved roads. Confirm access with Superior National Forest or local landowner/municipal authorities before attempting.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
No formal parking lot is documented. Expect informal pullouts on forest/logging roads or roadside parking where allowed. Do not block gates or private driveways. If you find a gated or signed area, follow posted instructions and regulations.
Elevation
375 metres above sea level
Coordinates
48.388611° N, -92.172206° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
1) Confirm land status and any seasonal road closures with Superior National Forest or local authorities before travel. 2) Bring map, compass/GPS and know basic route-finding, there may be no trail signs. 3) Wear sturdy, waterproof boots; expect wet and slippery rock near the falls. 4) Carry bear-aware supplies (bear spray) and store food properly. 5) Practice Leave No Trace, pack out all trash. 6) Tell someone your route and expected return time.
Where to Stay
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
Quetico Site 17
14.9 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Soudan Underground Mine State Park (historic mine tours) near Tower/Soudan; Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and numerous lakes and trails near Ely; Voyageurs National Park is farther north. These are regionally significant attractions to consider when planning a trip to the area.
Wildlife
Typical boreal/upper-midwest wildlife, white-tailed deer, moose, black bears, wolves, coyotes, beaver, otter, and a variety of birds (raptors, waterfowl, songbirds). Take standard precautions for bear country and ticks.
Cities near Snake Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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