Mineral Springs Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (1)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Mineral Springs Falls
Tucked into the trees of the Sheyenne River State Forest in Ransom County, Mineral Springs Falls is North Dakota’s quietly dramatic waterfall destination. Managed as part of North Dakota State Forest Service Land (designation SRMA) by SDOL, this small cascade is fed by an underground spring that tumbles into the Sheyenne River and drops roughly 8 feet — a descent that can reach up to about 15 feet depending on water and ground conditions. It’s notable as the only registered, publicly accessible natural waterfall in the state, making it a unique stop for local hikers and visitors exploring southeastern North Dakota. The site feels remote and peaceful, framed by the forest that surrounds the stream. Because the fall’s flow and appearance vary with conditions, photographers and naturalists often find a different experience on each visit. The setting and short but rewarding walk make Mineral Springs Falls a pleasant half-day outing for hikers who enjoy woodland trails and modest climbing within a lesser-known corner of the state forest.
The Setting
Mineral Springs Falls sits at 1,181 feet within North Dakota State Forest Service Land, fed by the Sheyenne River, in the foothills of North Dakota.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The hike to Mineral Springs Falls is a 2.4-mile out-and-back with about 350 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate. The route runs through the Sheyenne River State Forest and follows a forested path and wooded terrain; hikers should be prepared for rolling grades and a few steadier uphill sections. Trail conditions are those of a typical state-forest footpath: natural surface with roots and uneven ground in places. This is a moderate hike best suited to hikers comfortable with some climbing and unpaved trail conditions; there is no USFS trail number listed for this route, and the area is managed by SDOL as part of the North Dakota State Forest Service Land (SRMA).
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful setting with a small waterfall surrounded by natural vegetation. The area is ideal for photography, picnics, and enjoying the tranquility of nature.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Mineral Springs Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Mineral Springs Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall may have more water flow during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall. Watch for ticks and other insects, especially in warmer months. Cell phone reception may be limited in the area.
Current Water Conditions
56 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
16.86 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 SHEYENNE RIVER AT FORT RANSOM STATE PARK, ND (5 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
56 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Low
64 cfs
3/10Tue
Low
64 cfs
4/10Wed
Barely Flowing
58 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
56 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
56 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
60 cfs
3/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, partly sunny (trip score 5/10).
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 Fort Ransom 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.
1-meter lidar shows the creek losing roughly 76 feet through Mineral Springs Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 1,181 feet.
The ground changes about 73 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 51 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing north, the falls 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
- 1,181 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 76 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- North
- 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 north).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Mineral Springs Falls is located near the Sheyenne River in southeastern North Dakota. Access is typically via local roads, and visitors should check for specific directions as signage may be limited.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear, but there may be small parking areas or roadside pull-offs near the trailhead.
Elevation
1,181 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.503420° N, -97.901240° W
Land Management
Managed by SDOL
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be uneven in some areas. Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities nearby. Check weather conditions before visiting, as the trail could become muddy after rain.
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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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
The Sheyenne River and Sheyenne National Grassland are nearby and offer additional opportunities for hiking and exploring.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, deer, and other small wildlife. Visitors should be cautious of ticks during warmer months.
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