| Elevation | 2,302 ft/701 m |
| Latitude/Longitude (WGS84) | 47° 53′ 51” N, 90° 33′ 38” W 47.897446, -90.560572 (Dec Deg) 682325 E 5307782 N, Zone 15 (UTM) |
| Country | United States |
| State/Province | Minnesota |
Summit of the North: Exploring Minnesota’s Eagle Mountain
Tucked within the remote boundaries of Minnesota’s Superior National Forest, Eagle Mountain stands as the highest natural point in the state, reaching a modest but meaningful elevation of 2,302 feet. Though its height doesn’t compete with the towering peaks of the Rockies, the experience of hiking Eagle Mountain is rich with northern solitude, forested beauty, and a sense of quiet triumph that draws hikers from all corners of the state—and beyond.
A High Point in the Land of 10,000 Lakes
Located in Cook County, Eagle Mountain is part of the Misquah Hills, a rugged, ancient landscape shaped by glaciers and time. Its summit offers expansive views of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), one of the most pristine and protected wilderness areas in the United States. The hike to the summit is a chance to stand above the treetops of a state known more for lakes and forests than for elevation.
The Trail to the Top
The Eagle Mountain Trail is approximately 7 miles round trip, with moderate elevation gain and rocky, root-laced paths typical of northern Minnesota. Hikers often describe the trail as deceptively challenging—not because of steep grades, but due to the rugged terrain and occasional muddy sections.
The trail passes Whale Lake, a small, serene body of water where many hikers pause for a rest or picnic before tackling the final push to the summit. A wooden sign at the top marks the highest point in Minnesota, along with a logbook to record your visit. Though there’s no dramatic peak, the summit offers a quiet, wind-swept sense of arrival.
A Sacred and Scenic Landscape
This region holds cultural significance for the Ojibwe people, who have stewarded the land for generations. Hiking Eagle Mountain is not just about reaching the highest point—it’s about honoring a landscape rich with history, biodiversity, and spiritual presence.
Nearby, the Superior Hiking Trail runs for over 300 miles along the North Shore of Lake Superior, providing ample opportunities for backpacking, solitude, and connection to the rugged wilds of Minnesota.
Planning Your Visit
Tips for hiking Eagle Mountain:
- Permits: A self-issued permit is required for day hikes, available at the trailhead.
- Trailhead Access: Located off Forest Road 170 (The Grade). The road can be rough; check local conditions before heading out.
- Season: Best hiked from late spring through fall. Snow and ice can make the trail treacherous in winter.
- Gear: Sturdy footwear, bug spray (especially in summer), and plenty of water are essentials.
Why It Matters
Eagle Mountain may not be the tallest summit you’ll ever climb, but it offers something else: solitude, simplicity, and soul. It’s a reminder that high points aren’t always about height—they’re about perspective. Standing atop this quiet peak, with the endless forest stretching in all directions, you’re reminded that sometimes the most meaningful summits are the ones closest to home.
“Take Only Pictures, Leave Only Footprints”
Like all natural places, Eagle Mountain depends on respectful hikers to preserve its wild beauty. Stick to the trail, pack out everything you bring in, and honor the quiet by listening more than speaking.
Whether you’re a highpointer checking another summit off your list or a weekend wanderer seeking peace in the pines, Eagle Mountain offers a chance to slow down and breathe in the wild stillness of the north.
