In June I took a few friends up to Eagle Mountain in NE Minnesota so we could claim the highest point in Minnesota and enjoy the area for a couple of days. This is way up there a good 6 1/2 hours drive from Rochester, but overall I would say it's worth it.
We camped at Sawbill Lake Campground, a very beautiful campground with spacious campsites. The wolves were out howling at night in the distance on the 1st night and we had quite a show from the fireflies on the second night. Very memorable, good times.
Regarding the hike itself, it takes about 3-4 hours from the trailhead to the highpoint and back. Since you will be entering the Boundary Waters you are required to register at the trailhead (fill out the form provided).
The first couple of miles are mostly flat through dense forests. The trail can be a bit rocky at times though, and bringing some trekking poles would be good idea if you have them. At several points there are some nice planks over swampy land to cross. You will probably spot a beaver dam or two on the way as well. By the way mosquitoes were very active here in June so bring some spray.
The last 1/2 mile or so is where the trail beings to really rise up the mountain. The total elevation gain is only about 600 feet from the trailhead so it is not that bad at all.
The best views (pic at top) are about 500 feet back down from the high point as the high point itself is densely forested.
If you aren't sure where that is it might be best to just reach the high point and then come back down to snap some photos. Cell phone service was actually good up there surprisingly.
After the hike and on the way back to the campground I caught a decent photo with a happy fox trotting down the road with a meal in his mouth!
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