High Falls bridge replacement, summer 2025
Work to replace the High Falls pedestrian bridge has begun at Tettegouche State Park. This high-traffic bridge has faced major challenges in recent years, suffering damage during severe flooding events in both May 2022 and June 2024. The most recent flood caused the bridge to fully detach. Now, after years of planning, a new, more resilient bridge is set to be installed, ensuring safe passage for visitors for years to come.
Crews began working on a temporary access trail in late February and will start bridge construction on June 30, 2025. The new bridge will be made from reinforced fiberglass polymer, a durable material designed to better withstand the elements and future flooding events. The new bridge is expected to be complete in late November 2025.
Northland Constructors of Duluth, Minnesota is the lead contractor on the project. The total cost is $1.07 million.
Visitor impacts during construction
To accommodate construction, these amenities will be closed as they will serve as staging and access areas for contractors:
- High Falls trailhead parking lot
- nature play area
- group camp
- multiple hiking trails on the west side of the river leading to the bridge
Hikers on the Superior Hiking Trail will experience a slight reroute to ensure safety and minimize interactions with construction equipment.
In the interest of public safety, it is important for visitors to follow closure signage and stay out of the construction site.
For more information, visitors should review current Tettegouche State Park visitor alerts before exploring.