Is swimming allowed at Pigeon Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Pigeon Falls.

Live Conditions · 50 ft³/s · Much lower than usual

Pigeon Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Pigeon Falls?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Pigeon Falls.

Minnesota • 120 ft

By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026

Grand Portage Reservation TRIBL · DESG

Photo Credits (5)

Rob DeGraff CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 · Flickr

Sharon Mollerus CC BY 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Easy

Trail Length

1.0 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

About Pigeon Falls

Pigeon Falls — often called High Falls — plunges roughly 120 feet on the Pigeon River and is recognized as the tallest waterfall in Minnesota. The river itself marks part of the Canada–United States border between Minnesota and Ontario, west of Lake Superior, and served for centuries as a vital transportation route during the fur trade era. The falls sit within the Grand Portage Reservation (landowner: DESG) and are managed by the reservation’s tribal authorities, so visitors should be respectful of this tribal land and its cultural history while enjoying the views.

The Setting

Pigeon Falls sits at 656 feet within Grand Portage Reservation, fed by the Pigeon River, in the foothills of Minnesota. At 120 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in Minnesota.

Height: 120 feet

Trail & Hike Details

Trail Description

The path is well-maintained and paved, winding through forested terrain and rising gradually in places before reaching an observation deck that provides a sweeping view of the cascade. While the surface is paved and easy to follow, expect moderate grade sections due to the elevation gain; the trail is suitable for most hikers prepared for a short uphill effort.

What to Expect

The falls cascade 120 feet. Dogs are welcome.

Accessibility

The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Pigeon Falls?

✅ Dogs are allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🤑 Fee: $7.00

🏊 Is There Swimming at Pigeon Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall winter

Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Pigeon Falls, as the water flow is typically at its peak due to snowmelt. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter provides a unique view of the frozen waterfall.

Seasonal Access

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

Safety Information

Stay on designated trails and observation areas. The rocks near the falls can be slippery, and the river has a strong current. Exercise caution, especially with children.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 2 hours ago Barely Flowing

50 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

Much lower than usual for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

68 103 441 699

Based on 105 years of record

2.05 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

PIGEON RIVER AT MIDDLE FALLS NR GRAND PORTAGE MN

USGS 04010500

1 miles from waterfall

Drainage: 609 sq mi

Altitude: 787 ft

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the USGS gauge PIGEON RIVER AT MIDDLE FALLS NR GRAND PORTAGE MN (2 km away).

High confidence

Barely Flowing right now

50 cfs

→ Holding steady

Today

Barely Flowing

50 cfs

5/10

Tomorrow

Barely Flowing

52 cfs

5/10

Sat

Low

55 cfs

4/10

Sun

Barely Flowing

56 cfs

5/10

Mon

Barely Flowing

50 cfs

5/10

Tue

Low

53 cfs

4/10

Wed

Low

54 cfs

4/10

Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, partly sunny (trip score 5/10).

Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early April to early 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 Grand Marais hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Pigeon Falls is located within Grand Portage State Park in northeastern Minnesota. The park is accessible via Highway 61, approximately 36 miles northeast of Grand Marais, near the Canadian border.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

There is a designated parking area at Grand Portage State Park, which provides easy access to the trailhead leading to the falls.

Elevation

656 feet above sea level

Coordinates

48.004608° N, -89.597865° W

Land Management

Grand Portage Reservation TRIBL

Managed by TRIB

Visitor Tips & Gear

Arrive early during peak seasons to avoid crowds. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery. Bug spray is recommended during the summer months.