Last Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
About Last Falls
Last Falls is a quietly scenic waterfall tucked into Minnesota’s Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness — on DESG land managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The falls are a lesser-known, peaceful spot where the surrounding boreal forest and rocky banks create a compact, restorative setting for a short day visit. Its location inside the BWCAW gives it a remote feel even for local hikers seeking a mellow natural escape. Access to Last Falls is via a 2.4-mile out-and-back route that climbs about 350 feet and is generally rated moderate, making it a good choice for hikers who want a brief but satisfying outing. The nearest established campground is Fall Lake (approximately 18.0 km away), so plan accordingly if you’re looking to combine the visit with an overnight stay. Managed by the U.S. Forest Service within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (designation: WA), the site rewards visitors with quiet scenery and a sense of seclusion.
The Setting
Last Falls sits at 1,266 feet within Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, fed by the Basswood River, in the foothills of Minnesota.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail to Last Falls: out-and-back, 2.4 miles total with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain; difficulty: moderate. The route is managed within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness by the U.S. Forest Service (land owner: DESG, designation WA). No specific USFS trail name or number, nor detailed surface/grade/class data, was provided in the available information; hikers should prepare for typical wilderness trail conditions and bring appropriate footwear and navigation aids.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil natural setting with the sound of cascading water. The area may be surrounded by forested landscapes, offering opportunities for photography and relaxation.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Last Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Last Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer may be the best times to visit, as water flow is typically higher due to snowmelt and rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks, uneven terrain, and changing weather conditions. Always stay on marked trails if available.
Current Water Conditions
203 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
2.26 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge BASSWOOD RIVER NEAR WINTON, MN (6 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
203 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
203 cfs
5/10Sun
Low
219 cfs
4/10Mon
Barely Flowing
210 cfs
5/10Tue
Low
231 cfs
3/10Wed
Low
235 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
231 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late April to late July, peaking in May.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Winton hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
Here the descent is spread out: 1-meter lidar measures about 26 feet of drop through Last Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 1,267 feet above sea level.
Both above and below, the ground is gentle; the falls are the one abrupt step in an otherwise easy-going creek. The falls face northwest and stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,267 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 26 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Specific directions to Last Falls are not widely documented. Visitors are advised to consult local maps or guides for the most accurate route information.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should prepare for limited parking options and check local resources for updates.
Elevation
1,266 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.114339° N, -91.710126° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring appropriate footwear and supplies, as trail conditions and amenities are not well-documented. Check weather conditions before visiting.
Where to Stay
Paddle Inn
Stay Inn Ely
Adventure Inn
Grand Ely Lodge
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
FALL LAKE
11.2 miles away · 66 sites
Overview Fall Lake Campground is located on the shores of Fall Lake and provides direct access into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). The campground opens in early May in time for walleye fishing season, making it a popular place for anglers. Others are drawn to Fall Lake for its birding, swimming, hiking and boating opportunities. Superior National Forest, located in northeastern Minnesota's arrowhead region, is comprised of 3 million acres. The forest spans 150 miles along the
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions are not well-documented. Visitors may explore other natural areas or parks in Minnesota.
Wildlife
The area may host typical Minnesota wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be aware of their surroundings.
Cities near Last Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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