Cliff Jumping Spots in Northern Minnesota: Where to Take the Leap

Published On: July 27, 20263.8 min read
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The Best Cliff Jumping Spots in Northern Minnesota

Staying cool and having fun during the summer heat are borderline mandatory activities. There are different ways to accomplish this, but climbing up a cliff and hurling oneself safely into the sapphire water below is a perfect combination of fun and functional in the face of heavy heat. Alongside the fun that is cliff jumping on its own, getting to these locations is usually an adventure itself. Short hikes up winding trails reveal some tremendous views and nature sightings. 

Always be cautious of safety issues and legal warnings before jumping. Below, we’ll explore some of the greatest cliff jumping locations around Northern Minnesota, how to get there, and what makes them so fantastic!

Miners Lake, Ely

Miners Lake in Ely, Minnesota is a great place to get a cliff jump or two in. Crystal clear water awaits jumpers giving an extra assurance of the lack of hazards below. Miners Lake offers multiple cliffs of different heights to give different tastes at jumping; these various cliffs measure about 20 feet, 35 feet, and 45 feet. While not a huge lake, Miners Lake still provides some excellent views.

Burntside Lake, Ely

A larger lake also in the Ely area, Burntside Lake provides secluded water to explore and swim in. The natural formations and nature around the lake and on islands provide incredible spaces for an adventure while providing some cliffs to jump from. The clear, cool water is always fun to explore during the hot summer months. Some of the spots require kayaks to reach.

Lake Ore-be-gone, Gilbert

A flooded series of former open-pit iron mines, Lake Ore-be-gone is a truly remarkable place for summer recreation. The swimming is fantastic, the sights and history are intriguing, and the result of former mines is that there are some great cliffs to jump from. With a few different heights available, Lake Ore-be-gone is a truly unique experience.

Voyageurs National Park

The huge national park that spans across Northern Minnesota, connecting various waterbodies, is a fantastic place for cliff jumping and exploration during the summer. With various access points and truly endless amounts of water to explore, you’ll never see it all. Given the remoteness of Voyageurs, staying safe is extra important for those that venture out.

Illgen Falls, Baptism River, Beaver Bay

Near the coast of Lake Superior, the Baptism River and Illgen Falls provide some spots to get your cliff jumping fix. The 40-foot waterfall provides an incredible view for your swim as well. While not directly accessible from the trails of Tettegouche State Park, there is an easy gravel pull off and short walk to see the views.

Cascade River State Park, Lutsen

Close to the shores of Lake Superior, Cascade River State Park is a great place to spend a day and take some jumps. The nature here along the way is hard to beat with some incredible rock formations, unique plants and animals, and beautiful landscapes.

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Fun for all.

This northeast Minnesota territory is part of Voyageurs National Park and offers many outdoor activities, such as kayaking, biking, hiking, and backpacking. Visitors from all over Minnesota, Wisconsin, and beyond travel to Crane Lake to enjoy the vast wilderness and explore the beauty of its many lakes and waterways. There are many local accommodations from cabin rentals to fishing tours with family fun activities for all ages. Contact us today to learn more about Crane Lake and plan your visit!

Get in the Water of Northern Minnesota!

There are few other activities that are as fun, engaging, and explorative than cliff jumping. Especially on the hottest of summer days, getting some adrenaline as you get in the water makes for a fun day. Across Northern Minnesota, there is no shortage of water to swim in and cliffs to use. Crane Lake provides an incredible central location to experience it all with some privacy and seclusion to enjoy yourself. Come experience why Northern Minnesota has become one of the best places to cliff jump; book your trip today!

 

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