You can reach beautiful, burbling Bridal Falls via the Border Route Trail by hopping onto the BRT near the Gunflint Lodge and hiking eastward; or you can start at the Crab Lake Spur trail head, take that to the BRT, and hike westward to the falls. We prefer the latter - in fact, we think it's one of the best hikes in Minnesota.

To get to the trail head, follow the Gunflint Trail north and west out of Grand Marais for about 38 miles, and turn right on Cook County 51.

Look for the sign to Loon Lake Lodge. The trail head is about half a mile beyond the lodge.Go slowly and use caution, as this gravel road is windy, steep in places, and very narrow. Consider making Loon Lake Lodge your base camp. Its setting is beautiful, and you'll appreciate how close you are to comfort when you come off the trail.

From the trail head, the path is wide and rises gradually through the spruce and pines, over about a half a mile, as it tracks a ridge above the small creek that connects Loon to Little Mayhew Lake.

As the trail leaves the highlands and descends toward the valley, it narrows - but it remains clear and well-maintained.

The trail skirts the eastern edge of Crab Lake - as the name of the spur implies - passing through pristine wilderness.

Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for wildlife as you walk along the trail - moose, black bears, and wolves all live in this neck of the woods.

If you're lucky, perhaps you'll catch a glimpse of the elusive Canada lynx!

I didn't spot a moose the last time I took this hike - but I wasn't far behind one!

The trail rises and joins the Border Route Trail, and you'll gain some elevation heading west toward the Bridal Veil spur.

The rise in elevation also affords spectacular vistas out over Gunflint Lake all the way to Canada.

The distance from the intersection of the Crab Lake Spur and the BRT to Bridal Falls is about a mile and a half.

But the payoff is definitely worth the effort you've made.

Especially during years with considerable snow melt or regular rainfall, when the water flow is strong.

Check out YouTuber Connor Gillette's video of his visit to Bridal Falls to see what awaits you:

This moderately-challenging - due to elevation gains and rough patches of trail - is 7.7 miles out and back. I would allow at least three hours for the round trip hike to allow time to rest and enjoy the vistas. As on any hike, be sure to bring all the essentials that you'll need, including water, bug gear, and a paper map of the trail.

Have you hiked to Bridal Falls? Which route did you take? Let us know in the comments!