The most popular activity at Cascade River State Park is hiking, and two of the most-traveled routes are those to the series of falls along the river and to Lookout Mountain. In its last 3-mile run to Lake Superior, Cascade River drops 900 feet over a series of ledges. Trail builders have done a marvelous job creating overlooks along the way that capture the most scenic angles. You'll get some great photos. The trail to the Cascades and Cascade Falls (the most dramatic falls) isn't terribly long, but the terrain includes a lot of up and down. A longer hike (3.5 miles round-trip) takes you to Lookout Mountain, a point 600 feet above the big lake. In all, 18 miles of trails wind along the shore and river, and through the mixed woods. As with other North Shore parks, a section of the Superior Hiking Trail lies within Cascade River State Park. Cascade River is also a great picnic spot, with a shelter and several sites right along the Lake Superior Shore. On windy days, you'll see some big waves crashing. There are plenty of grills, and it's hardly ever crowded. Campers choose among 40 drive-in sites and 5 backpack sites; the roomy campground has flush toilets and hot showers. Interpretive programs are occasional, as there is no ranger on staff and no visitor center. Visitors can fish for trout in the lake, streams and river.