Merrill Logging Trail

Merrill Logging Trail is a short, easy out-and-back hike in Split Rock Lighthouse State Park in Minnesota, managed by State Park and Recreation. The trail is about 0.8 miles long, and the round trip covers roughly 1.6 miles with a total elevation gain of about 164 feet. The route starts and ends at about 798 feet, with the steepest stretch coming early on, around 0.18 miles in, where the grade reaches about 4%. Summer is the most comfortable time to go. Typical averages from a nearby weather station in Two Harbors show July and August highs around 75°F with lows in the mid-50s, while winter brings highs in the 20s and regular snow days from December through February. The trail sits close to several other routes. The Superior Hiking Spur Trail is just 0.1 mile away, and the Corundrum Mine Trail and Day Hill Trail are both within a mile. For an overnight stay, Gooseberry Falls State Park Campground is about 5 miles off.