Devil's Kettle

Devil's Kettle is a glacial kettle formation in Judge C. R. Magney State Park where the Brule River splits and one stream vanishes into a deep hole. The other current creates a standard waterfall at the same location, making this an unusual geological arrangement.

This formation developed during the last ice age when glaciers carved out the Brule River valley, leaving behind this distinctive kettle topography. The site long puzzled geologists trying to understand where the water disappearing into the hole actually went.

Scientists and visitors have conducted numerous experiments with dyes, ping pong balls, and GPS trackers to determine where the water from the kettle emerges.

Access requires a walk through the state park with a climb involving multiple steps along the route, requiring moderate physical effort. The weather is more pleasant during warmer months, but the area remains walkable year-round.

Scientists spent years trying to solve the mystery by throwing colored dyes and other objects into the hole to track where the water reappeared. Recent hydrological research finally revealed that the water actually returns to the same river downstream rather than surfacing elsewhere.

Location: East Cook

GPS coordinates: 47.82927,-90.04957

Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:40