Minnesota’s North Shore refers to the shoreline of Lake Superior. It runs from Duluth, Minnesota to Grand Portage, near the Canadian border. There are so many great things to do on the north shore year-round. The fall months for leaf viewing can be the most spectacular road trip (late September through Mid-October.
The North Shore Scenic Drive is a 45-mile scenic byway. From Duluth, follow Highway 61 northeast and you’ll encounter rocky cliffs, cobblestone beaches, scenic rivers and waterfalls, & small towns.
Tip: If you’re headed there in the fall, the leaf colors are BEAUTIFUL but, it's very very busy as it is a top tourist attractions. I'll share some of our favorite things to do, along with places we have stayed & eaten at.
THINGS WE LOVE TO DO:
Gooseberry Falls State Park
There are paved trails to the Upper and Middle Falls or hike the 1-mile Falls Loop Trail. If you have more time, the Fifth Falls Trail is a great 2-mile gravel loop, with boardwalks and places to stop and wade in the water depending on the season. If you want a more secluded hike with fewer crowds, check out the Gitchi Gummi Trail which is a 2.2-mile loop trail with incredible views of the Gooseberry River Valley.
TIP - To avoid large crowds, go during the week or in the early mornings. There is a Large parking lot and no park pass is required for entry.
Split Rock Lighthouse State Park
This is a top thing to do on the north shore. Head to the Lighthouse Visitor Center to pay and get tourist information.
Tip: The lighthouse and historic building interiors are closed in the winter so check before you go. There are year-round hike-in campsites along Lake Superior at Split Rock State Park with views of the historic lighthouse. This is one of the best & most popular campsites on the North Shore.
Stop to take photos prior to getting to the park for the best view.
Black Beach
located in Silver Bay on the scenic Highway 61. It's Minnesota's only black sand beach in Minnesota.
Tettegouche State Park
This Minnesota State Park is on the North Shore of Lake Superior, 58 miles northeast of Duluth on the scenic Highway 61. This park is spectacular. The park features a mile of Lake Superior coast, including the Baptism River mouth, the river's cascades & falls; four inland lakes. You'll encounter and experience the northern hardwood forest. There are 5 easy hiking trails that are perfect for any age. It also has 10 other trails for more advanced hikers.
Palisade Head (milepost 57) - MUST SEE!! This is an huge rock formation that rises 932 feet above Lake Superior. It's a beautiful scenic overlook.
Palisade Head
Oberg Mountain
2.3 mile loop near Tofte. I would say this hike is moderately challenging. It has incredibly spectacular overlooks of Lake Superior & Oberg Lake.
Summit Express Gondola and Alpine Slide
This is a MUST DO. You won't find a better view the Sawtooth Mountains and Lake Superior's coastline. Keep your eyes open for eagles, bear, timber wolves, and moose. Explore hiking trails, or stop at the Summit Chalet at Lutsen Mountains to relax and take in the gorgeous views while grabbing a bite to eat or a drink. At Lutsen Mountain, you’ll also find an alpine slide. This is a great area for the entire family. You can can rent mountain bikes and enjoy all the bike trails they have.
North Shore Winery
Visit the tasting room and enjoy a glass of wine or cider on their patio with views of Lake Superior. They often have live music & other fun events.
Cascade River State Park
This trail is an easy 1-mile hike with a well marked trailhead. The Cascade Falls are easy to reach and set in a shady forest. It’s a beautiful trail year-round.
Artist's Point
This is a flat rock peninsula on the shore of Lake Superior. It has a unique shoreline that is a must see attraction while visiting scenic Grand Marais. It sits adjacent to the break water walk that leads to Grand Marais Lighthouse.
Grand Marais
Grand Marais is a seaside harbor town that is so fun to walk around. Visit and support the small businesses that have been there for many years. The main street is great area to stroll. Shop and check out all the historic galleries. You could easily spend a couple days here.
World's Best Donuts (open seasonally) - You can't go to Grand Marais without stopping here. This family-owned bakery specializes in cake donuts, but I’m partial to the frosted raised donut or the maple long john.
TIP - This is an iconic spot, so be sure to get there early to avoid a long line!
Walk out to the lighthouse. If possible do this walk just before the sunset. Take in the gorgeous view and enjoy the amazing sunset from the pier.
Grand Portage State Park
35-miles north of Grand Marais at the Canadian border, you’ll find Grand Portage and the tallest waterfall in Minnesota. This is an easy, paved hike along the Pigeon River to 130-foot High Falls. We love this area because of the amazing scenery and smaller crowds.
WHERE WE HAVE STAYED:
East Bay Suites - It's our favorite pet friendly place on the shore. It's located on the edge of Lake Superior. It is centrally located just steps from local shops and restaurants in the center of the quaint harbor village of Grand Marais. Our room had a lake view, balcony, patio, full kitchen & fireplace.
PLACES WE ATE & DRANK:
Two Harbors Places:
Ledge Rock Grille - Enjoy great views of Lake Superior & savory food. They have many flavorful entrees along with fine wines and cocktails.
Vanilla Bean - Home cooked food with great service. You have to get one of their oven baked omelets!! They also have the best Mini Donut Bloody Mary. Brunch is served all day. https://thevanillabean.com/
Betty's Pie's - World Famous, Veteran bakery since 1956. They serve pies, pie shakes & serve American breakfast & lunch. The Caramel Apple Pie Shake is SO GOOD!! Be ready for large crowds because it is so popular! https://www.bettyspies.com/
Lou's Fish House - World Famous Smoked Fish & Shrimp - This is a MUST stop if you like seafood. The smoked salmon is the best!! https://www.lousfishhouse.com/
Rustic Inn Cafe - 1925 cabin serving homestyle meals and made from scratch pies. Highly recommend the North Shore Berry Crumble is delicious. https://rusticinn.cafe/
Knife River:
Great Lakes Candy Kitchen - handmade candy! Everything is made with quality ingredients. https://www.greatlakescandy.com/#/
Grand Marais Places:
Sven & Ole's - This pizza place is famous throughout northern Minnesota. https://www.svenandoles.com/
Hungry Hippie Tacos - Everything is homemade & so tasty!! https://www.hungryhippietacos.com/
My Sister's Place - Handcrafted burgers & pizza & craft beers. https://www.mysistersplacerestaurant.com/
Pepperoni Calazone
Voyageur Brewing Company - Enjoy craft beer from their taproom or the rooftop deck overlooking Lake Superior. They also have a variety of delicious appetizers. https://www.voyageurbrewing.com/
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