What is the Devil’s Kettle Waterfall?
The Devil’s Kettle Waterfall is a unique and adventurous destination in Minnesota. Located in the Judge C. R. Magney State Park, this waterfall has long puzzled and fascinated visitors with its mysterious split.
The Brule River flows through the park and splits into two at a large rock outcropping. One side of the river plunges 50 feet down a cliff and continues its journey to Lake Superior. The other side of the river drops into a deep hole and seemingly disappears.
Where does the water go?
For centuries, people have wondered where the water goes after it enters the hole. Some have speculated that it flows underground and reemerges somewhere under Lake Superior. Others have suggested that it travels to Canada or even the Mississippi River. To test these theories, researchers and curious explorers have thrown various objects into the hole, such as ping-pong balls, dye, and GPS trackers. However, none of these items have ever been found again.
In 2017, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources announced that they had solved the mystery of the Devil’s Kettle. Using flow measurements and dye tracing, they concluded that the water that goes into the hole simply rejoins the main stream of the river a short distance downstream. The reason why the objects thrown into the hole never resurfaced is because they were either trapped in the underground caverns or carried away by the strong current.
Why should you visit the Devil’s Kettle Waterfall?
While this explanation may seem anticlimactic to some, it does not diminish the beauty and wonder of the Devil’s Kettle Waterfall. The sight of the river splitting and disappearing is still a remarkable natural phenomenon that attracts thousands of visitors every year. The waterfall is also surrounded by scenic trails, lush forests, and diverse wildlife that make the park a worthwhile destination for nature lovers.
How can you visit the Devil’s Kettle Waterfall?
To visit the Devil’s Kettle Waterfall, you will need to hike about 2.5 miles round-trip from the park’s parking lot. The trail is moderately difficult, with some steep stairs and uneven terrain. You will also need to pay a state park vehicle permit fee of $7 per day or $35 per year. The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is in the spring or fall, when the water flow is high and the colors are vibrant.
If you are looking for a fun and memorable adventure in Minnesota, you should definitely add the Devil’s Kettle Waterfall to your bucket list. You will not only witness a stunning waterfall, but also experience the mystery and majesty of nature.
