According to AllTrails+, the Onion River Trail is a relatively easy, 1.1-mile out-and-back hike. But… it doesn’t have to be! Not only is this trail one of my favorite waterfall hikes in Minnesota, it connects easily with both the Gitchi-Gami State Trail and the Superior Hiking Trail, so you could make this an even longer route if you’re looking to put in some miles.

You'll find the Onion River Trailhead at the Ray Berglund State Wayside.
Kevin Commerford/Google Reviews
It's located on the North Shore between Tofte and Lutsen, where the Onion River flows into Lake Superior.
K. Tsoutsoulis/Google Reviews
Access the trail, itself, by ascending the wooden steps adjacent to the wayside.
Annette Tuthill/AllTrails
There, you'll find a clear path and easy going as you hike through secondary forest toward the Onion River.
John Hoffacker/Google Reviews
After a few hundred feet, the trail curves to the right and tracks the river as it tumbles down through its gorge.
Whitney Zegarski/Google Reviews
The river drops almost 200 feet in elevation in less than a quarter of a mile as it flows down toward the lake.
John Heintz/Google Reviews
This results in a spectacular stair step waterfall. It can be difficult to see in its entirety when the trees are in their full summer foliage.
Trent Jonas/Google Photos
I like to visit in the spring, when the leaves aren't yet full and the water is flowing strong.

The trail follows the river up to the top of the ridge line where it begins its plunge.
Anu Drolia/AllTrails
Near the end of the Onion River Trail, you'll be treated to spectacular views of Lake Superior from the top of the ridge.
Ernesto De Quesada/AllTrails
From there, you can head back down the trail to the wayside.
jacques gavois/Google Reviews
Or you can walk a few hundred yards up Onion River Road to the Gitchi-Gami State Trail. Continue on for another mile to access the Superior Hiking Trail, where it crosses the Onion River, and the Oberg Mountain Loop.

There are some roots and rocky parts along the way, especially as you start climbing, so be sure to wear sturdy shoes. If you’re looking to stay in the area, check out Cascade Lodge, which is a little farther up the North Shore, or head back a few miles toward Tofte, and check out one of the Bluefin Bay properties.

Have you hiked the Onion River Trail before? Tell us about your experience in the comments. If you have a favorite hike or trail that you think we should know about, nominate it to be featured!

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Ray Berglund State Wayside, 6355 MN-61, Tofte, MN 55615, USA