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| Vermilion Gorge Trail in Minnesota's Superior National Forest. |
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| Vermilion Gorge Trail topo map. |
The Vermilion Gorge Trail runs 3-miles round trip in Minnesota’s Superior National Forest. Sporting a 282-foot elevation gain over the Vermilion River, it’s best done in April through October and on dry days to avoid slick rocks.
To reach the trailhead, from U.S. Hwy. 53 in Orr, head north on County Road 23 for about 15 miles. In Buyck, take County Road 24 north for about 10 miles; a ranger station is located near end of Hwy. 24. The trailhead is in the parking lot across from the businesses just north of Crane Lake Ranger Station.
The gravel trail initially gains elevation then descends on timbered steps with boardwalks over wet areas. Birch and aspen tower overhead.
This area was well-known to early European explorers even as the interior of what is now Minnesota remained terra incognita. Rene Bourassa ran a fur trading post at the mouth of the river on Crane Lake during the 1730s.
What really attracted European-Americans to the location, though, were minerals. In 1865, first iron ore then gold were reported discovered on Vermilion Lake. The latter set off the famous Vermilion Lake Gold Rush, and by 1866, about 300 people were panning for gold on the lake. No gold was found, but deep iron ore deposits were confirmed. The mining and logging industries soon followed, but today tourism provides most locals with their livelihoods.
Once out of the low-lying area, the trail enters a red pine stand. Be aware that bears do inhabit the area; be noisy on the trail to warn the bears in the distance of your presence so that you don't startle one up close.
After 0.75 miles, the trail reaches the Vermilion River. You can take more steps to the shore and a bobbing dock that floats on the river to get a good view of it in this wide section.
Once you’ve taken in the river, continue to the dock’s right and head up several large rocks. Moss covers many boulders, and bunchberry bushes dominate. The trail narrows and turns to dirt, as taking a sharp turn and following the river upstream.
The path climbs steeply over rocks and roots to an overlook at the gorge’s side. The sheer granite cliff walls are steep, so be careful to not fall.
Between the cliff sides is a 500-foot long narrows through which the Vermilion River takes a perpendicular turn before flowing into Crane Lake.
At the overlook, look west to a marshy plain created by the river spreading out. Sunsets are impressive here. Though not visible from the overlook, Vermilion Falls is a few miles upstream.
Upon reaching a large rock wall, the trail ends. Retrace your steps back to the parking lot.
Dogs are allowed on the trail but must be leashed.
Learn about nearby day hiking trails in my Best Sights to See at Voyageurs National Park guidebook.
