Newton Falls waterfall

Newton Falls

Minnesota

By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026

LiDAR & 3D terrain
Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness WA · DESG
Photo Credits (3)
1.
NOAA Office for Coastal Management / The USDA-FSA Aerial Photography Field office (crediting while reuse is desired as Courtesy Attribution) Public domain · Wikimedia Commons
2.
3.

About Newton Falls

Newton Falls is a small, scenic waterfall tucked into northeastern Minnesota, offering a peaceful, less-crowded stop for hikers and paddlers who appreciate quiet forested settings. The falls make a rewarding destination for those looking to pair a short outing with time to sit waterside and enjoy the solitude — especially in a region known for its lakes and timbered landscape. The waterfall lies within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (designation: WA) on land owned by DESG and managed by the U.S. Forest Service. For campers, Fall Lake campground is conveniently close — about 1.93 km away — making overnight trips and early-morning visits easy to plan. Because the area is part of a national wilderness unit, visitors should plan ahead and check with the U.S. Forest Service for current access conditions.

The Setting

Newton Falls sits at 1,302 feet within Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, in the foothills of Minnesota.

Trail & Hike Details

Trail Description

The most commonly used approach to Newton Falls is a 2.4-mile out-and-back route with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain, rated moderate in difficulty. USFS trail name/number and detailed surface/grade/class information are not provided in the available data; the U.S. Forest Service lists the basic length, gain, and difficulty but does not supply a formal trail surface or class in the record shared here. Allow extra time for uneven footing and bring navigation basics, and consider camping at Fall Lake campground (≈1.93 km away) if you want to turn the visit into an overnight excursion.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect a serene and natural environment with a small waterfall flowing over rocky terrain. The area is surrounded by forest, offering opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the peaceful sounds of nature.

Accessibility

Accessibility information is not available. The area may not be suitable for visitors with mobility challenges due to uneven terrain and lack of developed trails.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Newton Falls?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Newton Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall winter

Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Newton Falls, as water flow is typically higher due to snowmelt and rainfall. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter may provide a unique view of the frozen waterfall.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.

Safety Information

Exercise caution near the water, as rocks may be slippery. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and carry necessary supplies. Inform someone of your plans if visiting a remote area.

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 33 feet of drop through Newton Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 1,316 feet above sea level.

The ground changes about 41 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 11 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing east, the falls catch soft morning light.

Aerial photo of the same ground around Newton Falls near Winton, Minnesota, for comparison with the lidar view LiDAR bare-earth terrain around Newton Falls near Winton, Minnesota, showing about 33 feet of drop, a long cascade, facing east
Aerial LiDAR bare earth

Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.

Ground elevation
1,316 feet
Measured by 1-meter lidar
Drop at the falls
About 33 feet
Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
Faces
East
Catches soft morning light.
Ground profile through the falls

A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading east).

Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.

Location & Access

Getting There

Newton Falls is located near the Cloquet River in northeastern Minnesota. Access may require driving on rural roads, and specific directions should be confirmed before visiting.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking availability is unclear, but there may be limited roadside or informal parking near the falls.

Elevation

1,302 feet above sea level

Coordinates

47.969340° N, -91.722911° W

Land Management

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness WA

Managed by USFS

Visitor Tips & Gear

Bring a map or GPS device as the area may not be well-marked. Wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for uneven terrain. Check local conditions before visiting, especially during winter months when snow and ice may make access more difficult.

Where to Stay

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Nearby Campground

FALL LAKE

1.2 miles away · 66 sites

Walking distance Reservable

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.gov

Additional Information

Nearby Attractions

The Cloquet River and surrounding forested areas offer opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation.

Wildlife

The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors may also encounter insects such as mosquitoes during warmer months.

Cities near Newton Falls

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Other waterfalls named Newton Falls

1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.

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