Photo Credits (4)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
50 ft
About Saint Anthony Falls
Saint Anthony Falls (Dakota: Owámniyomni, “whirlpool”) sits at the northeastern edge of downtown Minneapolis as the only natural major waterfall on the Mississippi River. Today the falls are an urban landmark where the river’s power meets city history: the original cascade has been carefully altered and stabilized, and a lock-and-dam system now controls the flow. The Falls and surrounding mills are part of the St. Anthony Falls Historic District and lie within the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, a National Park Service unit that preserves the river corridor through Minneapolis and St. Paul. In the mid-to-late 1800s the east and west faces of the falls were capped with dams to power a booming milling industry that helped build modern Minneapolis. Visitors can experience that layered history and sweeping river views from the Stone Arch Bridge or riverfront walkways; interpretive signs and the nearby historic district help bring the milling-era stories to life. It’s an easy, accessible urban outing that blends industrial heritage, Indigenous place names, and dramatic river scenery.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Minnehaha Falls (53 ft) lies 5.2 miles to the southeast.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 0.5-mile out-and-back trail gains 50 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Saint Anthony Falls is primarily a viewing destination rather than a backcountry hike, but you can enjoy a short out-and-back walk (about 0.5 miles total) with roughly 50 feet of elevation gain. The route uses paved, mostly level urban sidewalks and the pedestrian deck of the Stone Arch Bridge, so footing is smooth and the grade is gentle—appropriate for most abilities and stroller- or bike-friendly. Expect easy difficulty and clear wayfinding as you move between overlook viewpoints, riverfront paths, and interpretive areas in the St. Anthony Falls Historic District.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Saint Anthony Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Saint Anthony Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Saint Anthony Falls can be visited year-round, but spring and summer offer the best weather for walking and exploring the area.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Stay on designated paths and viewing areas. The river currents near the falls are strong, and the area around the lock and dam can be hazardous. Do not attempt to swim or climb near the falls.
Know when to go.
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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.
The bare-earth surface loses about 56 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 782 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 22 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 27 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing south, the falls sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 782 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 56 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- South
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading south).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Saint Anthony Falls is located in downtown Minneapolis, Minnesota, near the Stone Arch Bridge. It is easily accessible by car, bike, or public transportation. The falls can be viewed from various points, including the Stone Arch Bridge and nearby parks.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at nearby public lots and street parking in the downtown Minneapolis area. Some parking areas may require a fee.
Elevation
781 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.982188° N, -93.255503° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit during the spring or after heavy rains to see the falls at their most powerful. The Stone Arch Bridge offers excellent views and is a popular spot for photography. Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to explore the nearby trails or parks.
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For this easy 0.5 miles trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Where to Stay
Ramada by Wyndham Minneapolis Golden Valley
The Chambers Hotel
Hampton Inn & Suites - Minneapolis/Downtown
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Minneapolis - West End by IHG
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
Nearby attractions include the Stone Arch Bridge, Mill Ruins Park, the Guthrie Theater, and the Minneapolis Riverfront District.
Wildlife
The area is urban, but visitors may see birds such as ducks, geese, and herons along the river.
Cities near Saint Anthony Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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