Words and Photos by Henrylito D. Tacio
When Filipinos talk about a waterfall that is shared by the United States and Canada, they are invariably referring to Niagara Falls, situated between New York state and Ontario province.
However, there exists another waterfall that also straddles the international border between the two countries. I am referring to High Falls, which is located in Minnesota state and Ontario province. I never knew about it until my sister Elena – who hosted me for more than a month during my recent US visit – brought me to the place.
The water flows from the Pigeon River, named after the passenger pigeon. Historically, the Pigeon River held great importance for transportation and the fur trade, and the existence of the passenger pigeon was instrumental in its naming and historical significance.
Minnesota is rich in water resources. According to the University of Minnesota, the state was repeatedly enveloped by extensive ice sheets during episodic Ice Ages over millions of years. When these glaciers receded approximately 10,000 to 20,000 years ago, they deposited uneven debris and created deep depressions that subsequently filled with water, resulting in the formation of the state’s numerous lakes.
Although referred to as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” Minnesota actually boasts more than that. A lake is defined as a body of water covering an area of no less than 5 hectares. As per data from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the state is home to 11,842 lakes.
Where there are lakes, there are also waterfalls. Minnesota boasts more than 100 recognized waterfalls, with 22 of them specifically detailed in a comprehensive guide. These waterfalls are distributed across different areas, including the northern region of the state and along the North Shore of Lake Superior, which is home to High Falls.
When my sister Elena mentioned High Falls, it did not resonate with me; in fact, most Americans are unfamiliar with it as well. “The waterfall,” she remarked, “is far more impressive in person than in photographs.” I did not argue with her, as I hold the belief that “a picture speaks a thousand words.”
Elena has been married to Daniel Chase, an American engineer, and has resided in the United States for approximately 28 years. They currently reside in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, the same town where Hollywood actress Judy Garland grew up.
On the day of our trip, my sister informed me that the trip would take about four hours – an hour longer than our recent journey to the Twin Cities. We set off around 10 in the morning, navigating along Highway 169, then Highway 37, followed by Highway 53, Highway 16, and finally Highway 61, which is also referred to as North Shore Scenic Drive.
Also accompanying us was my nephew, Erik. Upon our arrival in Grand Marais, we took a moment to savor a delightful lunch at the Blue Water Cafe. This city is indeed a popular tourist destination, renowned for its vibrant and diverse arts community, which includes a multi-generational group of residents who continue to engage in logging and fishing, thereby providing essential services alongside the various restaurants, shops, accommodations, and attractions that draw visitors. It is also known for its fine beaches.
After our meal, we proceeded towards our next destination, located approximately 65 kilometers away. The journey was quite pleasant, as there were very few vehicles on the highway, likely due to our choice to travel on a Wednesday rather than a weekend.
Eventually, we arrived at Grand Portage State Park, an unincorporated area situated in Cook County, Minnesota. We got out of the vehicle, and starting from the main visitor center, we followed the trail leading to High Falls. The path is wheelchair-accessible, primarily paved and meanders through the boreal forest.
The trail is wide and well-developed with interpretive signs about the flora, geology, and history. The entire path is lined with trees. At the trail’s end, we ascended the wooden ramp that leads to an accessible viewing deck, which brought us face-to-face with the waterfall and offered a view of Canada just across the river. There’s also a set of stairs to an additional viewpoint.
The waterfalls’ colossal power and beauty are genuinely captivating. Standing on the observation deck, you quickly realize your own insignificance in the face of such magnificent natural forces.
For those who don’t know, the large rock from which the water cascades is a diabase, a type of black intrusive igneous rock known for its exceptional hardness and durability. In contrast, the gorge contains shale rocks that are prone to erosion. This erosion is so significant that the appearance of the falls continues to change even today.
According to the US Geological Survey, an average of about 3,200 gallons of water flows over the waterfalls every second. Just for a comparison, Maria Cristina Falls in Iligan City flows at a rate of 130 cubic meters per second.
Watching it was mind-boggling. After all, High Falls is the tallest waterfall in Minnesota. The Pigeon River abruptly plunges over a 120-foot cliff, resulting in the largest waterfall that is at least partially situated in the United States.
However, we have been informed that the High Falls have not yet been officially measured. The height of 120 feet is merely an estimate; some claim it reaches 130 feet, while others suggest it is only 100 feet. There are individuals who believe it could be as tall as a 10 to 13 story building.
Due to the fact that the waterfall partially extends into Canada, it does not hold the title of the highest waterfall entirely within the state of Minnesota. That distinction is bestowed to the 70-foot High Falls situated in Tettegouche State Park. Nonetheless, it remains an impressive sight to behold!
In Canada, the Pigeon River High Falls can be found in the Pigeon River Provincial Park in Ontario. While you are in the park, your mobile devices may pick up a signal from Ontario. The Canadian province operates on Eastern Standard Time. If your phone’s date and time settings are set to adjust automatically, this will result in the time displayed on your device advancing by one hour. Now, here’s a tip from Exploring North Shore: “From both locations, the High Falls of Pigeon River can be enjoyed all year round. Although trails may not be maintained in the winter months, they make a great cross-country skiing or snowshoeing trek as the waterfall is quite spectacular when frozen.”—###
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