Minnesota
Vermilion Gorge Overlook
Point of Interest
The Vermilion River cuts a narrow, rocky gorge here with whitewater rapids crashing through granite walls 60 feet below. A quarter-mile trail from the small parking area leads to several overlook points where you can watch kayakers navigate the technical drops. The sound of rushing water echoes off the rock walls, and the views upstream and down the gorge are spectacular. Best light for photos is late afternoon.
Access is via Forest Road 491 off Highway 169 near Tower — about 3 miles of decent gravel that any vehicle can handle. The trail to the overlooks is well-marked but can be slippery when wet. No facilities here, just raw wilderness and the sound of moving water.
Whitewater gorge with cliff-top views of Class III rapids
Place Details
| Type | Point of Interest |
|---|---|
| Street address | Vermilion Gorge Trail, Crane Lake Township, Minnesota 55725 Get directions → |
| Nearest town | Tower, Minnesota |
| Miles from pavement | 3.1 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | Any vehicle |
| Access road surface | Gravel |
| Cell service | None |
| Best season | May-October |
| Land manager | USFS |
| Permit required | No |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |