Minnesota may not be as mountainous as some states, but there’s no shortage of challenging day hikes with serious elevation gain. Whether you prefer the rugged terrain of the north shore of Lake Superior or the towering bluffs in the Driftless Region in southeastern Minnesota, this list is for anyone looking for a challenge or training for an upcoming adventure.
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What makes a day hike challenging?
There were two main factors I considered when selecting hikes to include on this list:
- Total elevation gain
- Distance
Some of the trails are short but steep while others are longer distances with a good amount of elevation gain. So, whatever it is you are looking for, there should be a challenging option on this list for you!
Pro Tip: Always carry the items on my essential day hike packing list!
Toughest day hikes in Minnesota
This list of more than 15 challenging day hikes in Minnesota is sorted by region from north to south. Where possible, I have linked to a trail map or resources to assist with you planning your hike.
Pro Tip: Protect yourself from mosquitoes and ticks while hiking these trails!
Challenging day hikes on the north shore of Lake Superior
The north shore is one of the most beloved hiking destinations in Minnesota – for good reason. The dramatic granite rock formations and expansive views of Lake Superior are incredible. This means these challenging day hikes reward you with unforgettable views.
Lookout Mountain
Located in Cascade River State Park and part of the Superior Hiking Trail, the Lookout Mountain Trail has to be one of my favorite. The trail starts by winding around a series of cascading waterfalls before climbing up to an overlook with views of Lake Superior and Superior National Forest. Bring a picnic and enjoy the views from the top!
Distance: 3 miles
Elevation gain: 600 feet
Type: Loop (or out-and-back)
Bean and Bear Lakes Loop
Among the most popular trails on the north shore, especially in fall, the Bean and Bear Lakes Loop Trail offers stunning views of the aptly named lakes from rocky cliffs before turning back into the woods. This is also part of the Superior Hiking Trail, which is known for it’s challenging terrain covered with large roots.
Despite the fact that this is such a popular trail, it is quite challenging. Many less experienced hikers who start the trail end up turning back after getting the first glimpse at the lakes.
Distance: 6.7 miles
Elevation gain: 1036 feet
Type: Loop (lollipop) – I prefer following the loop portion clockwise from left to right where the trail splits
Pro Tip: A lollipop trail refers to a type of loop trail where you start on a straight section of the trail (the stick) that leads to a loop before returning back down the straight section (the stick) to the trailhead. Picture a big circular lollipop on a stick.
Carlton Peak
To visit Carlton Peak as a day hike, I recommend doing an out-and-back hike from the Britton Peak Trailhead. The hike is relatively short but has a steady and somewhat steep climb. There are two spur trails to overlooks at the top.
Distance: 3 miles
Elevation gain: 541 feet
Type: Out-and-back
Eagle Mountain
Visit Minnesota’s highest point with this hike to Eagle Mountain near Grand Marais (make sure to snap a photo of the geological marker at the top!). Much of the trail is relatively flat aside from the climb to the peak near the end of the trail. However, expect uneven terrain with large rocks and tree roots throughout as you make your way along several different lakes.
NOTE: Because this trail goes through the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), a self-issued permit is required. This is free for day hikers and available at the trailhead parking lot.
Distance: 6.6 miles
Elevation gain: 656 feet
Type: Out-and-back
Fantasia Overlook
This challenging climb to the Fantasia Overlook rewards hikers with 270-degree views of Lake Superior and the surrounding area. The hike up to the overlook is considered a spur trail off of the main Superior Hiking Trail but can be hiked as a standalone day hike as well.
Distance: 4.7 miles
Elevation gain: 1125 feet
Type: Out-and-back
Superior Hiking Trail Section 13
The Superior Hiking Trail is a 300+ mile backpacking trail from Canada to Wisconsin through Minnesota. It is split into a number of sections that can be hiked as day hikes. Section 13 located between the Lake County Road 6 and Lake County Road 7 trailheads. It’s a favorite SHT backpackers due to it’s rocky overlooks and challenging terrain. For a longer day hike or multi-day hike, continue north to George Crosby Manitou State Park or south to Tettegouche State Park. This entire portion of the SHT is beautiful and has significant changes in elevation.
Distance: 7.3 miles
Elevation gain: 1300 feet
Type: One way
Pro Tip: If you do this one-way as listed, you will either need a second vehicle at the opposite trailhead or arrange a ride with one of the many shuttle services for hikers in the area.
Challenging day hikes near Duluth
Located at the southwest corner of Lake Superior, Duluth is considered the gateway to the north shore. It’s a great stop for a weekend getaway with several options for hiking.
Ely’s Peak
Located just south of the city of Duluth, Ely’s Peak is another spur trail off of the Superior Hiking Trail. It’s a short hike that packs a serious punch but you are rewarded with 360-degree views of Duluth, Lake Superior and the St. Louis River.
Pro Tip: I highly recommend spending a weekend in Duluth while hiking Ely’s Peak!
The trail crosses an abandoned train tunnel that is over 500 feet long. Consider bringing a headlamp or a flashlight!
Note: In summer 2025, there were reports of a bee or hornet nest along the trail. Stay alert while hiking, particularly if you are allergic.
Distance: 1.8 miles
Elevation gain: 396 feet
Type: Out-and-back
Challenging day hikes in Ely and the surrounding area
Ely is easily my favorite town in Minnesota. I love it so much that I’ve visited in every season! It’s one of two gateways in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) and seemingless endless hiking through the national forests.
Pro Tip: For any day hikes into the BWCAW, hikers need to get a free self-issued permit from the kiosk at the entry point.
Angleworm Lake Trail
If you’re looking for distance and elevation gain, this challenging day hike is for you! While the Angleworm Trail is technically doable in a day, some people choose to backpack and stay overnight at a campsite on the trail. There are some boardwalk sections that can be underwater during rainy periods so plan accordingly.
Distance: 13.1 miles
Elevation gain: 1525 feet
Type: Loop (lollipop)
Other Trails Near Ely
It feels important to mention that there are other excellent and challenging trails in the Ely area, but they tend to be designed for multi-day hikes. You could certainly do out-and-back day hikes on sections of the Kekekabic Trail (called the Kek), the Powow Trail, or Sioux Hustler Trail. These are best suited for more experienced hikers and backpackers looking for a challenge due to the terrain and remote nature of the trails.
Challenging day hikes within 1 hour of the Twin Cities
Pioneer to Willow Falls and Burkhardt Trail Loop
Technically over the border in Wisconsin, Willow River State Park is just under an hour from the Twin Cities. It’s a popular place for day hiking due to the beautiful waterfalls, but the park has a number of trails to explore while you’re there.
There’s a steep descent from the main parking lot to the waterfall, then continue past the waterfall to some challenging elevation gains on the Burkhardt Trail.
Distance: 4.2 miles
Elevation gain: 518 feet
Type: Loop
Hanrehan Lake
Murphy Hanrehan Regional Park has some surprisingly challenging trails that go through beautiful forest, wetlands and meadows. The trails in the regional parks are well-marked and easy to follow. The Hanrehan Lake Trail is a great option for birdwatching and wildlife viewing that is close to the city.
Distance: 5.2 miles
Elevation gain: 547 feet
Type: Loop
For longer distances with similar elevation gains, try the Hanrehan Lake and Murphy Lake Trail (6.2 miles, 521 ft elevation) or Park Loop Trail (9.5 miles, 508 ft elevation).
Pro Tip: Murphy Hanrehan Regional Park is close to the town of Shakopee, which has a cute downtown area with some great restaurants and shops!
Overlook Trail
The Richard T. Anderson Conservation Area is in Eden Prairie, which is one of the southwest suburbs of Minneapolis. The Overlook Trail is a short, steep climb to an overlook of the Minnesota River Valley. This hike is beautiful in all seasons!
Pro Tip: Lion’s Tap is a restaurant just down the street from the trailhead. Grab one of their delicious burgers and enjoy it from the overlook!
Distance: 2 miles
Elevation gain: 347 feet
Type: Loop
North and South Loop
Afton State Park has a great mix of terrain with steep climbs through the forest, rolling prairie and flat sections along the St Croix River. This combo of trails in particular combines all of these terrains into one mid-distance day hike.
Distance: 6.4 miles
Elevation gain: 603 feet
Type: Loop
Northern River, Trout Brook and Prairie Loop
Most of the elevation change in the trail above occurs in the North Loop of Afton State Park. So, this variation of the trail focuses on the North Loop and the surrounding area to get more elevation gains and longer distance. This minimizes the time spent hiking along the river.
Distance: 7.4 miles
Elevation gain: 938 feet
Type: Loop (lollipop)
Challenging day hikes in southeast Minnesota
This portion of the state is known as the Driftless Region because it was untouched by glaciers in the last Ice Age. As a result, hikers can explore the towering bluffs and unique rock formations!
Dakota Trails Loop
If you’re looking for a challenge, Whitewater State Park has several trails to choose from. The Dakota Trails Loop is a favorite of mine. From the trailhead parking lot, I prefer the climb up to Chimney Rock and then follow the loop clockwise towards Inspiration Point. There’s a nice mix of rocky overlooks and sections hiking through forest.
Distance: 4.5 miles
Elevation gain: 1066 feet
Type: Loop
Campground, Chimney Rock, Dakota, Coyote Point Loop
This is a longer version of the Dakota Trails Loop that takes you on a wider loop of the park. If you are looking for more miles and about the same elevation gain, this is a great option.
Distance: 6.1 miles
Elevation gain: 1190 feet
Type: Loop
Are you ready for these challenging day hikes in Minnesota?
Admittedly, when I moved to Minnesota over 15 years ago I assumed it was mostly flat with few hiking trails that would really challenge me – especially after living out west. I am happy to say that I was wrong.
These trails range from short, steep inclines to longer hikes with grueling elevation changes. While Minnesota may not be as mountainous as other states, these hikes will challenge you!
Related content to read next:
Superior Hiking Trail Packing List: A Prepared Girl’s Guide
20 Essential Outdoor Adventure Safety Tips (Every Hiker Should Know!)
Minnesota Hiking Guides: 15 Books About Hiking in Minnesota
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