Palisade Head
Dramatic 330-foot volcanic cliffs overlooking Lake Superior, offering breathtaking panoramic views and a unique geological experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Palisade Head
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dramatic 330-foot volcanic cliffs overlooking Lake Superior, offering breathtaking panoramic views and a unique geological experience.
"The view is incredible and definitely worth getting some pictures."
⚠️ Prioritize Safety
No railings on cliffs! Stay back from the edge, especially with kids. :warning:
🚗 Park Smart
Summit parking is limited. Park at the bottom and walk up to avoid traffic jams. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Lake Superior Views
Summit of Palisade Head
Breathtaking 330-foot high cliffs offer unparalleled vistas of Lake Superior's vast expanse.
Dramatic Volcanic Formations
Cliff faces
Witness ancient lava flows that sculpted these impressive geological formations, a testament to Earth's power.
Rock Climbing Opportunities
Western cliff faces
Observe or even participate in rock climbing on the sheer cliffs, adding an adventurous element to the visit.
Bird of Prey Nesting Site
Cliff ledges
Keep an eye out for nesting birds of prey, adding a touch of wildlife to the dramatic landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Safety First on the Cliffs
Parking and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⚠️ Prioritize Safety
No railings on cliffs! Stay back from the edge, especially with kids. :warning:
🚗 Park Smart
Summit parking is limited. Park at the bottom and walk up to avoid traffic jams. +1 :car:
📸 Capture the Views
The dramatic scenery is perfect for photos, especially during sunrise or sunset. 
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Uneven terrain and rocky paths require comfortable, closed-toe footwear. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
⚠️ Prioritize Safety
No railings on cliffs! Stay back from the edge, especially with kids. :warning:
🚗 Park Smart
Summit parking is limited. Park at the bottom and walk up to avoid traffic jams. +1 :car:
📸 Capture the Views
The dramatic scenery is perfect for photos, especially during sunrise or sunset.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Uneven terrain and rocky paths require comfortable, closed-toe footwear. :athletic_shoe:
🥪 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal with an incredible backdrop; there are no food services on-site. :knifeforkplate:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the absolutely incredible and dramatic views from Palisade Head, calling it a must-see on the North Shore. The sheer cliffs and vast expanse of Lake Superior are consistently highlighted as breathtaking. However, many caution about the lack of safety railings and the limited, often congested, parking at the summit, advising extreme care, especially with children.
"Driving up to the top isn’t hard unless it’s busy. If you’re scared of narrow roads/steep hills definitely park at the bottom and walk. Very pretty at the top, i would not bring kids here due to no rails/just straight cliffs!"
Kimmie Settles
"A word of advice, park down by the road and walk up. There is a small parking lot at the top, but it is small and so many people drove up there it was a real traffic jam. Walk out onto the rocks to enjoy the view and maybe see some rock climbers."
Sharon Miller
"The view is incredible and definitely worth getting some pictures. I would say there isn’t a lot of parking at the top. I would also say if you have kids be very careful there is nothing stopping you from going over the edge."
Jeremy Eberle
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Palisade Head is located on Highway 61, about 2-3 hours north of Minneapolis. Take I-35W North to US-10 E, then merge onto US-61 N. Continue on US-61 N for approximately 140 miles. The turnoff for Palisade Head is well-marked.
Yes, Palisade Head is located within Tettegouche State Park, offering access to its natural beauty and geological wonders.
Yes, there is a road that leads to the summit. However, the parking lot is small and can get congested, so arriving early or parking at the bottom is often recommended. +1
Highway 61 is the scenic route along Minnesota's North Shore. Driving north from Duluth, you'll pass through several charming towns before reaching Palisade Head.
Public transport options are very limited for reaching Palisade Head. It is best accessed by private vehicle, making it a popular stop on North Shore road trips.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Palisade Head is part of Tettegouche State Park, which requires a Minnesota State Parks vehicle permit. You can purchase a daily or annual permit.
Palisade Head is accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, road conditions can be hazardous in winter, and it may be closed during severe weather.
No, tickets or reservations are not required for Palisade Head itself. You only need a valid Minnesota State Parks vehicle permit to enter the park area.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer fewer crowds and beautiful lighting for photography. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly spectacular.
The primary restriction is the need for extreme caution due to the lack of safety railings. Visitors are also asked to respect the natural environment and wildlife.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Enjoy stunning panoramic views of Lake Superior, explore the volcanic cliff formations, watch for nesting birds of prey, and observe rock climbers. +1
While there isn't a dedicated 'Palisade Head trail' for hiking in the traditional sense, you can walk around the summit area and explore the cliff edges cautiously. The main attraction is the view from the top.
Due to the sheer cliffs and lack of safety railings, Palisade Head is not recommended for young children. Extreme supervision is required if you bring them. +1
Palisade Head is known as a nesting site for birds of prey, so you might spot eagles or other raptors. You'll also likely see gulls and other waterfowl near the lake.
Yes, Palisade Head is a popular spot for experienced rock climbers. You can often see climbers on the western cliff faces.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no dining facilities directly at Palisade Head. It's recommended to pack a picnic or dine in nearby towns like Silver Bay or Grand Marais.
The closest dining options are in Silver Bay, which is a few miles south, or further north in Grand Marais. Many visitors opt for a picnic lunch to enjoy the views.
Absolutely! Packing a picnic is a great way to enjoy the stunning scenery. Just be sure to pack out everything you pack in.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. Golden hour provides beautiful warm tones, while foggy mornings can create a mystical atmosphere.
You can capture sweeping panoramas of Lake Superior, dramatic cliffside shots, unique geological formations, and potentially wildlife like birds of prey.
Drone usage is subject to Minnesota State Park regulations. It's essential to check the latest rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in the park.
Experiment with different vantage points along the cliff edge (safely!) and consider capturing the vastness of the lake from the summit. Shots looking down the cliff face are also dramatic.
With minimal light pollution away from urban centers, Palisade Head can offer good conditions for astrophotography, especially on clear nights.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you do visit with children, parking at the bottom and walking up can be a safer way to experience the area, allowing kids to explore the base without immediate cliff exposure. Focus on enjoying the views from a safe distance and perhaps bringing a picnic to enjoy in a more secure spot.
🚗 Road Trippers & Scenic Drivers
Be prepared for potential parking challenges, especially during peak season. Arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon can help you secure a spot at the summit. Alternatively, parking at the bottom and taking a short walk up is a great way to stretch your legs and soak in the atmosphere.
📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
Aim for sunrise or sunset for the best light, and don't miss the chance to capture the area during foggy conditions for an ethereal mood. Keep an eye out for nesting birds of prey and the adventurous rock climbers who frequent the cliffs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Geological Marvel of Palisade Head
These cliffs are not only visually stunning but also provide a unique habitat. They are known as a nesting site for various birds of prey, adding an element of wildlife observation to the experience. The contrast between the ancient rock and the dynamic, ever-changing waters of Lake Superior creates a truly captivating landscape.
Understanding the geological history of Palisade Head enhances the appreciation for its dramatic scenery. It's a place where visitors can connect with the deep past of the Earth while enjoying breathtaking contemporary views. The sheer drop and the vastness of the lake make it a powerful reminder of nature's grandeur.
Safety and Responsible Visiting
Many visitors recommend parking at the base of the head and walking up. This strategy helps avoid the traffic congestion that can occur in the small summit parking lot and allows for a more leisurely appreciation of the surroundings. It also provides a safer approach to the cliff tops.
Responsible visiting also means respecting the natural environment. This includes staying on designated paths where available, not disturbing wildlife, and packing out all trash. By being mindful of safety and environmental impact, everyone can enjoy the awe-inspiring beauty of Palisade Head.
Photography Opportunities at Palisade Head
Beyond the sweeping vistas, the intricate details of the volcanic rock formations provide excellent subjects for close-up shots. The sheer scale of the cliffs can be captured from various angles, emphasizing their imposing presence. Foggy mornings can add a mystical, ethereal quality to photographs, as seen in some stunning shots.
For those interested in wildlife photography, the nesting birds of prey offer a unique opportunity. Additionally, the adventurous can capture the thrill of rock climbers scaling the sheer faces. Whether you're using a smartphone or professional gear, Palisade Head provides endless visual inspiration.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit