Minnesota is crisscrossed with hundreds of amazing hiking trails. They take adventurers to serene lakes, rushing waterfalls, and everywhere in between. But what if you’re a hiker in Minnesota searching for something a little more off the beaten path? Look no further than Magnetic Rock Trail. This short hike in northern Minnesota leads to a fascinating discovery.

Magnetic Rock Trail is right off the Gunflint Trail near Grand Marais. There is a parking area that the trailhead that gives easy access.

Chuck Pryor/AllTrails

From the parking area, Magnetic Rock Trail is only 3 miles long.

Chuck Pryor/AllTrails

You’ll pass through some of northern Minnesota’s most beautiful scenery.

Eugene Kim/Flickr

A few low, rocky overlooks offer gorgeous vistas of the tree-covered hills and lakes.

Alyson Kurschner/AllTrails

You’ll be able to easily see evidence of some of the major events that have happened in the area, such as the 2007 Ham Lake wildfire.

Tony Webster/Flickr

The dirt trail is a little rugged in some areas, but this should be an easy hike for anyone with average hiking ability.

David Stovall/AllTrails

The main event will be visible long before you reach it…

Tim Schleicher/Flickr

…but it won’t take long! Soon, the trees will part…

Alyson Kurschner/AllTrails

…and you’ll be standing in front of a 60-foot-tall rock. Not only does it look cool, but this rock has a secret. Take out a compass, and you’ll see that it is magnetic!

Tim Schleicher/Flickr

This huge rock is the fascinating ending to a beautiful hike. The sight of the strange rock looming over the landscape is one you’ll not soon forget.

David Stovall/AllTrails

Have you ever hiked the Magnetic Trail? What are your other favorite hikes in Minnesota? You’ll find a list of some of our favorites in our article about amazing hikes under 3 miles in Minnesota.

Chuck Pryor/AllTrails

Eugene Kim/Flickr

Alyson Kurschner/AllTrails

Tony Webster/Flickr

David Stovall/AllTrails

Tim Schleicher/Flickr

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