Running for about 17 miles through Cook County in northeastern Minnesota, the Cascade River spills into Lake Superior between Lutsen and Grand Marais. At its lower end, it rushes through Cascade River State Park along a narrow, shady canyon, dropping down majestically in a series of waterfalls and cascades. There is a network of trails in the park; some of the most scenic ones follow the river’s mossy banks. The trails, surrounded by dense forests of white pine, birch, and spruce, are very popular with hikers during the warmer months and with cross-country skiers in the winter. Those who like spending the night under the stars can find a spot in one of several campsites throughout the park.

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