Cut Log Camp

Hello, Minnesota hikers and outdoor enthusiasts! If your idea of a perfect getaway involves strapping on a backpack and immersing yourself in the rugged beauty of the North Shore, then Cut Log Camp on the Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) is a spot you’ll want to know. Located within the scenic Cascade River State Park near Grand Marais, this backcountry campsite offers a true wilderness experience for those tackling sections of Minnesota's beloved long-distance trail. We understand that SHT hikers prioritize practical, well-placed, and peaceful overnight spots, and Cut Log Camp delivers on the promise of a genuine trailside rest.

Cut Log Camp is not your typical drive-up campground with extensive amenities. Instead, it's a designated backpacking campsite, designed to provide essential comforts for those on foot. As its name suggests, you might find a substantial "cut log" – a natural feature that often serves as a bench or gathering point, adding to the rustic charm. This campsite is for those who appreciate simplicity and the raw beauty of the boreal forest. It’s a place to pitch your tent, build a campfire under the stars, and truly connect with the natural rhythms of the North Shore. For many SHT hikers, these backcountry sites become cherished waypoints, offering respite and camaraderie along the journey.

Cut Log Camp is located on the Superior Hiking Trail, specifically within Cascade River State Park, Spur, Grand Marais, MN 55604, USA. This unique address highlights its nature as a backcountry campsite accessible primarily by foot via the SHT. Cascade River State Park is a well-known jewel on Minnesota’s North Shore, famous for its dramatic river gorge, waterfalls, and direct access to Lake Superior. Grand Marais, a vibrant arts and outdoor hub, is a short drive further north along Highway 61.

Accessing Cut Log Camp requires hiking along the Superior Hiking Trail. This is part of its appeal, ensuring a more secluded and quiet experience compared to drive-in campgrounds. Hikers can access the SHT from various trailheads within Cascade River State Park or nearby sections of the trail, such as those along Highway 61. The SHT is incredibly well-marked with blue blazes, making navigation relatively straightforward for experienced hikers. While you can drive to trailheads, remember that your gear will need to be carried in. This location offers unparalleled opportunities to explore the waterfalls of the Cascade River, enjoy panoramic views of Lake Superior from rocky outcroppings, and immerse yourself in the unique boreal forest ecosystem. It's truly a destination for those who love to earn their views and their campsites.

Services Offered (typical for SHT backcountry campsites):

• Tent Pads: Designated flat, open spaces suitable for pitching tents, designed to minimize impact.
• Fire Rings: A centrally located fire pit for safe campfires (check for current fire bans).
• Backcountry Latrine: An open-air latrine (outhouse without the full structure) for waste disposal.
• Water Source Access: Typically near a natural water source (like a stream or river), though water must be filtered or treated before consumption. The review notes water is "way down a steep hill," indicating the need for careful planning.
• Shared Campsite: SHT campsites are first-come, first-served and are intended to be shared among hikers if needed.

Features / Highlights:

• Secluded & Rustic Experience: Offers a true backcountry feel, removed from developed areas, providing peace and quiet for hikers.
• Flat Open Space for Camping: Provides comfortable areas for setting up tents, as highlighted by a reviewer.
• "Big Old Cut Log": A unique and practical feature mentioned by a reviewer, likely serving as a bench or gathering spot, adding to the campsite's character.
• Located on Superior Hiking Trail: Direct access to one of Minnesota's premier long-distance hiking trails, offering endless opportunities for exploration.
• Within Cascade River State Park: Benefits from the park's stunning natural features, including the Cascade River gorge, waterfalls, and old-growth forests.
• Scenic North Shore Environment: Immerses campers in the beautiful boreal forests and offers potential for Lake Superior vistas nearby.
• No Reservations or Fees: Typical for SHT backcountry sites, offering flexibility for backpackers.
• Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to observe diverse Minnesota wildlife in their natural habitat.

Contact Information:

Address: Superior Hiking Trail, Cascade River State Park, Spur, Grand Marais, MN 55604, USA (This is a physical location on the trail; the campsite does not have a direct office or phone number).

For general inquiries about the Superior Hiking Trail or its campsites, the Superior Hiking Trail Association is the best resource. Their website, superiorhiking.org, provides extensive information, maps, and FAQs for planning your trip. For specific information regarding Cascade River State Park regulations, contact the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) or the park office directly.

For Minnesota locals, Cut Log Camp on the Superior Hiking Trail represents an authentic North Shore adventure, perfectly aligned with the spirit of our state's love for the outdoors. Its designation as a backcountry campsite means it's ideally suited for hikers, backpackers, and those who cherish a raw, unplugged experience. This isn't a place for casual car camping; it's a reward for those willing to put in the miles, offering solitude and direct immersion in the stunning natural beauty that defines Minnesota's North Shore.

While the rustic nature means fewer amenities (like a downhill walk for water and an exposed latrine, as one reviewer noted), these are often seen as minor trade-offs for the peace, beauty, and sense of accomplishment that comes with backcountry camping. It's a fantastic option for families with older children or experienced individuals looking to introduce themselves to backpacking or to simply enjoy a quiet night under the stars after a day on the trail. If you're a Minnesotan looking to truly disconnect and experience the wilderness that makes our state so special, Cut Log Camp offers a memorable and genuinely rewarding escape on the iconic Superior Hiking Trail. Remember to always practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve this beautiful spot for future generations.

Cut Log Camp

Superior Hiking Trail, Cascade River State Park, Spur, Grand Marais, MN 55604, USA