minnesota north shore travel guide

The North Shore, Minnesota: 27 Things to Do & Complete Guide (2024)

Are you planning a trip to the North Shore, Minnesota? Whether it be for hiking, sightseeing, or just exploring, this is the perfect place to go!

Nestled along the rugged shoreline of the majestic Lake Superior, the stunning North Shore beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts for a visit.

From the vibrant hues of fall foliage to the glistening ice formations of winter, the North Shore’s ever-changing landscape offers a year-round playground.

Aside from just outdoor adventure, you can stop in at the charming small towns that dot the shoreline and enjoy shopping and delicious food.

I’m a Minnesota native who lives just a short distance from the North Shore and have spent hundreds of days exploring the area.

In this post, I’m going to share with you everything that you need to know for a visit to this beautiful location, including things to do, when to visit, and more.

North Shore, Minnesota Location

Starting in Duluth and stretching all the way up to Grand Portage, along the border of Canada , the North Shore lines Lake Superior.

These two towns are found in Northern Minnesota about 150 miles or 2.5 hours from Minneapolis .

The best way to see this region is to explore the North Shore Scenic Drive, which is about a 150-mile road between these two towns.

What is the North Shore?

Many people (including myself!) consider the North Shore to be the most beautiful part of Minnesota.

It’s been called the ‘North Shore’ thanks to its location along the Northern shore of Lake Superior, one of the five Great Lakes .

Along the Lake Superior shoreline, you’ll find many small towns like Two Harbors, Silver Bay , Grand Marais, and Grand Portage.

It’s one of the best places in the state to go hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, or mountain biking, or just exploring.

There are 8 state parks that dot the shoreline, which are some of the most popular state parks in Minnesota. This includes Tettegouche, Temperance River State Park, Gooseberry Falls, and more.

Overall, it’s a stunning location that makes for a great long weekend trip from many places in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.

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Best Things to Do on the North Shore

There are so many amazing things to do on the North Shore, MN, no matter what season you’re visiting the region.

Below are some of the absolute best things to do for your visit to this beautiful destination!

1. See the Aerial Lift Bridge

The Aerial Lift Bridge in Duluth stands as an iconic symbol of the city and its rich maritime history.

The impressive structure stands at 135 feet and spans the Duluth Ship Canal, where you can watch it rise and lower to allow ships to pass through.

You can see the lift bridge from many places in Canal Park , or you can drive across it to reach Park Point on the other side.

2. See the Waterfalls at Gooseberry Falls

Are you enamored with waterfalls like I am? Then a visit to Gooseberry Falls State Park in Two Harbors is perfect for you!

This park boasts a series of stunning waterfalls , with the powerful Gooseberry Falls being the star attraction.

Just a few short steps from the parking lot will put you right at the base of Gooseberry Falls, where you can wander around and listen to the roaring water.

If you aren’t one for crowds, then head a bit further into the forest on a hiking trail to Fifth Falls, which is just as beautiful but offers more solitude.

3. Visit Split Rock Lighthouse State Park

Another of the great state parks on the North Shore is Split Rock Lighthouse State Park.

The main attraction here is, you guessed it, Split Rock Lighthouse, which towers high above Lake Superior, perched on a rocky cliff.

As you explore the park’s trails, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the lake, pristine forests, and rocky shores.

You can also tour the lighthouse and learn about the history of why it was placed there and the wrecks that happened before it was built.

There are also some beautiful places to go camping within this state park.

4. Wander Around Black Beach

Found just a short distance outside of Silver Bay is a unique beach that is one of a kind in Minnesota – Black Beach.

This black sand beach is the perfect spot to wander around and search for sea glass and agates, enjoy a picnic, or just feel the cool lake breeze on your face.

Unique from any of the other beaches in Minnesota , Black Beach features a soft black sand that can’t be found anywhere else.

5. Grab a Treat at World’s Best Donuts

Ready for breakfast or just a quick treat during your visit to the North Shore? World’s Best Donuts in Grand Marais is the place to be !

This popular donut shop features a large selection of treats that are perfect for any time of day.

They’re well known for their cake donuts and Skizzles (kind of like an elephant ear!), and you might find a line out the door since they’re so well loved!

6. Go Brewery Hopping

The North Shore and Duluth are also home to some of the best breweries in the state, so if you’re into brewery hopping, this is where to do it!

Starting in Duluth, there are all sorts to check out including Canal Park Brewing Co., Fitger’s Brewhouse, Bent Paddle Brewing Co., and Lake Superior Brewing Co.

As you make the drive from Duluth to Grand Marais and further, you’ll come across Castle Danger Brewery and Voyageurs Brewing Company.

The North Shore Winery is also a fantastic winery to make a stop at in Lutsen!

7. Check out Glensheen Mansion

This large 39-room mansion is located on a 12-acre estate, right up from the Lake Superior shoreline, and is one of the best spots to stop in Duluth.

It’s known as one of the most beautiful historic homes in Minnesota, and with a visit, you can take a step back into the past and explore the mansion.

You’ll find 20th-century decor and craftsmanship and you can learn about the Congdons who once called the Glensheen home.

Many get married on the stairs of the mansion, while others enjoy learning about the murders that took place here, and during the holidays, the entire home is decked out in lights.

8. See the Lights at Bentleyville

During the holiday season, Bayfront Festival Park in Duluth is totally decked out in lights for everyone to enjoy at a spectacle called Bentleyville Tour of Lights.

What started as a small lighting festival in a man’s backyard has become a statewide get-together to celebrate the holidays.

Nearly 50,000 lights are lit up on the shores of Lake Superior to enjoy, and you can grab yourself a cup of hot cocoa or roast a marshmallow as you wander through the lights.

The entire event is free (besides parking at the DECC ), so you can get in the holiday spirit!

9. Hike to Minnesota’s Tallest Waterfalls

There is no shortage of amazing waterfalls in Minnesota, and the North Shore is home to most of them, including two of the tallest!

In Tettegouche State Park, you’ll find High Falls of the Baptism River, which stands at about 60 feet tall and is known as the tallest falls entirely in Minnesota.

A bit further up the North Shore Scenic Drive, you’ll also find the High Falls of the Pigeon River in Grand Portage State Park, which is 120 feet tall!

The reason this one is not considered the tallest in the state is that it’s located halfway in Canada.

There are plenty more great waterfalls along the shore that you can hike to or see from a short walk from the parking lot.

10. Ride the Lutsen Gondola

One of the best things to do on the North Shore in the fall months is to ride the Lutsen Gondola, found at Lutsen Mountains.

This amazing gondola ride brings you up to Moose Mountain, where you’ll have some of the most fabulous views of the fall foliage.

Enjoy relaxing as you take in the scenic views of bright reds, oranges, and yellows, and the blue Lake Superior in the distance.

This is the quintessential fall activity in Minnesota , so be sure to plan for peak colors and visit!

11. Solve the Mystery of the Devil’s Kettle

Another of the best waterfalls to see is Devil’s Kettle, which can be found in Judge C.R. Magney State Park.

Devil’s Kettle is a mesmerizing waterfall that splits into two separate channels, with one flowing into the Brule River and the other disappearing into a seemingly bottomless pothole.

For years, no one could figure out where the water went, but scientists have discovered that it just enters the river from a place underground.

Still, Devil’s Kettle is an iconic North Shore waterfall and should be added to your list of must-see places!

12. Go Downhill Skiing

Even during the cold months, there are many great things to do on the North Shore, MN in the winter, with all sorts of fun cold-weather activities to enjoy.

One of the very best is downhill skiing, which can be done at Spirit Mountain in Duluth or at Lutsen Mountains in Lutsen.

Both offer some of the best downhill skiing in the state and feature amazing views of Lake Superior from the slopes.

13. Walk the Duluth Lakewalk

If you’re staying in Duluth or nearby, starting your day off with a stroll along the Duluth Lakewalk is the perfect morning ritual.

The Lakewalk is made up of nearly 8 miles of paved biking and walking paths that line Lake Superior from Bayfront Park to Brighton Beach.

Walking along the path leads you past some of the best places in Duluth including Canal Park, Glensheen Mansion, Leif Erickson Park, and Lester Park.

14. Visit Grand Portage State Park

Found way up at the very top of the scenic drive is Grand Portage State Park, which is home to a massive waterfall.

High Falls of the Pigeon River drops 120 feet over a rocky cliff and would be considered the tallest in the state if it were only located entirely in Minnesota.

Half of the waterfall is located in Canada, so instead, High Falls of the Baptism River claims this title.

Within the park, you’ll find plenty of hiking trails to enjoy as you explore and wander around the park.

15. Take a Trip to Isle Royale National Park

While you’re all the way up in Grand Portage, you may want to take a day or weekend trip out to Isle Royale National Park.

This remote wilderness area is home to hundreds of moose, as well as nearly 30 wolves that control the population.

You can catch the ferry from Grand Portage out to the island and take a day trip, where you’ll spend about 3 hours on the island, or plan to spend an entire weekend!

16. Drive the Gunflint Trail

If you’re looking for an easy and beautiful scenic drive to take, then head up the Gunflint Trail, which starts in Grand Marais.

It leads you up past the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and through the dense Superior National Forest.

Along the route, there are hiking trails to pull off at, many beautiful views, and opportunities to spot wildlife like moose and bear.

17. Grab a Bite to Eat

If you’re a foodie, then you’ll have absolutely no trouble finding somewhere to eat, whether that be in Duluth or along the North Shore .

Way up in Grand Marais, you’ll find delicious eateries like the Fisherman’s Daughter, Angry Trout Cafe, and Sven & Ole’s.

Back in Duluth, there are restaurants all over, including many of which are found in Canal Park , like Grandma’s Saloon and Northern Waters Smokehaus.

No matter what you’re craving, you’ll be able to find some delicious eats to enjoy.

18. Enjoy Pie at Betty’s Pies and Rustic Inn Cafe

Speaking of great places to grab a bite to eat, stopping at either Betty’s Pies or Rustic Inn Cafe for dessert is a must.

These two destinations serve up perhaps some of the best pie in the entire state of Minnesota, and it wouldn’t be a visit to Two Harbors without a stop!

Both serve unique flavors including cream, fruit, and crumb pies, so there are different varieties for everyone to enjoy.

My personal favorites are the Great Lakes Crunch at Betty’s Pies and the peanut butter chocolate at Rustic Inn Cafe.

19. Relax at Park Point Beach

Who would’ve thought you’d find a sandy beach on the shores of Lake Superior?! In fact, if you look at a picture, you might even guess that it’s the ocean!

Nope, that’s just Park Point Beach in Duluth, one of the best places to go swimming in the city.

Whether you want to swim in the chilly waters of Lake Superior or just sit back and relax on the sand, Park Point is the perfect place for it.

20. Listen to the Hums of Iona’s Beach

This unique hidden gem is found just outside of Castle Danger and features a beach filled with pink rocks.

And what’s even more unique, is that these rocks seem to sing when you listen closely.

When the waves crash into shore and move the rocks around, they clink against each other and make a soft humming sound.

21. See the Views at Palisade Head

Another of the best things to do on the North Shore, MN is to visit the viewpoints that let you admire Lake Superior.

Palisade Head is one of the best viewpoints of the lake and is easily accessible from Highway 61.

Simply drive up the steep road to the parking lot, park, and wander out onto the massive cliffside to bask in the views.

You might even see some people rock climbing here, as well as many people having picnics and just enjoying the breeze off of Lake Superior.

22. Hike the Superior Hiking Trail

If you’re interested in exploring the hiking trails around Lake Superior, then you’re in for a real treat!

The Superior Hiking Trail stretches from Jay Cooke State Park in Carlton all the way up to Grand Portage.

Along the trail, you’ll find plenty of places to start day hikes, or you can enjoy the entire thru-hike if you’re up for the challenge!

The long trail features some of the most beautiful viewpoints such as Oberg Mountain, Bean and Bear Loop , and Carlton Peak.

23. Wander Through Canal Park

Located in Duluth along the shore of Lake Superior is Canal Park, where you’ll find dozens of restaurants, shops, and fun activities.

Canal Park is the perfect destination if you’re visiting Duluth for the first time and really want to get the most out of the city.

Whether you’re visiting on a romantic date night , a solo trip, or a family vacation, Canal Park has plenty to do.

You can even put together many of the things on this list like see the Aerial Lift Bridge and walk the Lakewalk!

There’s also a huge variety of resorts and hotels to book a stay at, whether you’re looking for a stay with a pool or one with a jacuzzi in the room , there’s something for everyone.

24. See Artist Point

While Grand Marais is packed with great things to do , seeing Artist Point should be at the top of your list.

Located on the scenic shores of Lake Superior, this picturesque peninsula offers panoramic views of the vast lake and jagged cliffs.

You can wander out to the Grand Marais Lighthouse, walk along the shore and find rocks, or take in a beautiful sunset.

It’s a stunning viewpoint of Lake Superior and is a must for your Minnesota North Shore visit.

25. Hike to Shovel Point

When it comes to hiking trails, Shovel Point in Tettegouche State Park is one of the most popular ones.

Shovel Point is a viewpoint above Lake Superior that showcases the stunning cliffs and breathtaking vistas that are found along the shore.

You’ll get to enjoy panoramic views of the crashing waves and rocky shores.

Make a stop at the top and see if you can spot Palisade Head in the distant horizon, or enjoy a picnic at the overlook.

26. Go Snowshoeing in Winter

Although Minnesota brings blistery winters and lots of snow, but that doesn’t mean that you have to slow down and stop exploring!

Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are popular activities to check out during a winter visit to the North Shore.

Trails can be found all around the state parks, as well as in the dense Superior National Forest that lines the shore of Lake Superior.

Many resorts and outfitters nearby rent snowshoes and skis, so you should be able to find some if you don’t have your own!

27. Take the Kids to North Shore Adventure Park

If you’re traveling with kids , then a visit to the North Shore Adventure Park will perfectly suit your trip.

Here you’ll find a ropes course, axe throwing, and a zipline, making it one of the perfect places to stop on North Shore with kids.

The kids will be tired out after time spent at the adventure park, and even adults can participate in the fun!

Best Places to Stay on the North Shore, MN

Now that you know the very best things to do North Shore, MN, you can start planning where to stay during your visit!

Here are my favorite places to book a stay and where I recommend you book for your getaway!

📍 Cove Point Lodge

Beautiful views of Lake Superior, easy access to the best North Shore activities, a great on-site restaurant, and more make Cove Point Lodge an easy choice.

Choose between lodge rooms or private cottages to make your stay in Beaver Bay one of the most memorable vacations yet!

📍 Superior Shores

Found in Two Harbors, Superior Shores gives you access to a sandy beach on Lake Superior and options for multiple types of stays.

Book a stay in their beautiful lodge or gather your friends and family in a townhouse to spend some time together on the North Shore.

📍 Bluefin Bay

This collection of lakeside resorts offers stunning lodges and cottages for your stay near Tofte, close to some of the best things to do.

Enjoy the outdoor and indoor pool and hot tub , beach campfires, complimentary tours, restaurants, spa, and more during your stay.

Best Time to Visit Minnesota’s North Shore

Quite honestly, there really is no ‘best’ time to visit the North Shore, Minnesota, because it is beautiful during every season.

But the region really shines during the fall months when fiery reds and bright yellows take over the trees and engulf the forests.

Fall on the North Shore showcases some of the most fabulous colors, cooler temperatures, and amazing opportunities for hiking.

If you don’t mind the warmer temperatures, then summer is also a great season to visit, but expect lots of crowds since it’s peak season.

Winter offers plenty of outdoor activities like skiing, snowshoeing, dog sledding, and more, and spring is peak waterfall season.

So while there may be a better time to visit than others, it’s truly spectacular any time of year, and there are plenty of things to do.

Is Minnesota’s North Shore Worth Visiting?

You might be wondering if the North Shore is really worth visiting or not, and the answer is always going to be ABSOLUTELY!

Whether this is your first visit or you’ve been a hundred times, visiting this beautiful destination will always be worth it.

Especially if you’re a lover of the outdoors and adventure, you’ll love making a trip up to the shoreline of Lake Superior.

From hiking to skiing to exploring small towns or just taking in the views, there are so many great ways to enjoy the shore.

Map of the North Shore Scenic Drive Stops

The North Shore, MN is typically considered the stretch of land between Duluth and Grand Portage. This covers about 150 miles of road, one-way.

Yes, Duluth is typically considered the North Shore. If not, it’s known to be the Gateway to the North Shore!

The best views of Lake Superior can be found at Palisade Head, Shovel Point, Wayswaugoing Bay Overlook, Mount Josephine, and Oberg Mountain.

The North Shore Scenic Drive is about 150 miles long and stretches right along the shoreline of Lake Superior.

There are so many things to do on the North Shore, MN. From hiking to biking, skiing and snowshoeing, shopping in small towns, eating at local restaurants, and more, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The North Shore can be expensive, in particular, if you are living on a lake lot, but it really isn’t terribly expensive for a weekend visit. To save money, book lodging well in advance!

The North Shore is known for having spectacular views of Lake Superior and for having endless activities for outdoor and nature lovers.

Starting in Duluth, the North Shore is made up of small towns like Knife River, Two Harbors, Castle Danger, Beaver Bay, Silver Bay, Little Marais, Tofte, Lutsen, Grand Marais, and Grand Portage.

Yes, there are a few swimming beaches in Duluth . Park Point Beach is the most popular, with Franklin Beach trailing behind.

I would recommend having at least 2 days on the North Shore, but the more that you can have to explore, the better!

There are over 15 waterfalls to see on Minnesota’s North Shore, including some of the highest in the state!

Yes, the North Shore is a stunning place to live. It is perfect for outdoor lovers. But it can be expensive and there are minimal shops for food and other necessities. Many people get their essentials in Duluth!

Just shortly out of Duluth, the Scenic 61 is part of the old Highway 61. You can now take the road from Duluth to Two Harbors to get a more scenic view of Lake Superior. The alternative option is to drive the main Highway 61, which has four lanes.

The area has been given this name because it lines the Northern shore of Lake Superior.

The North Shore, MN is on Lake Superior.

Wrap-Up: North Shore, Minnesota

If you love the outdoors and exploring, then a visit to the North Shore, Minnesota is going to be perfect for a getaway!

There are so many amazing things to do on the North Shore that will help you make your visit spectacular and memorable!

From hiking the Superior Hiking Trail to enjoying donuts in Grand Marais, you’ll find something for the entire family to love.

As a Minnesota local who loves to explore this region, I hope that you’re able to also enjoy the beauty that Northern Minnesota has to offer.

Kassidy Olson is a Minnesota native that loves spending her time exploring her home state. She writes for Kassidy's Journey to showcase that Minnesota isn't just a flyover state. She's here to give her personal recommendations, insights, tips, and more to help you plan your trip to Minnesota, or help locals enjoy their home state more.

North Shore Explorer Guide

North Shore Explorer guide

The North Shore Explorer guide is the official guide of the North Shore Scenic Drive. 

The 56-page mile-by-mile guide starts in Duluth and takes you along Minnesota’s North Shore of Lake Superior to the Canadian Border.

Pick one up for free at dozens of places in Duluth and the North Shore, at an Explore Minnesota Welcome Center, or request a guide here .

The North Shore Scenic Drive

Highway 61 travels along the northeast side of Lake Superior and is known as the North Shore Scenic Drive. This All American Road connects you to Lake Superior, her beaches and overlooks, and the surrounding towns and things to do.

There are endless breathtaking views and opportunities to explore the lakeshore, tumbling waterfalls, hiking and biking trails, historic sites, attractions, parks, shopping, lodging, dining, and local culture.

Experience all of this and more by following the mile markers in the North Shore Explorer guide!

North Shore Highway 61. Courtesy ARDC.

Mile-by-mile guide of the North Shore MN

Each section in the guide includes a map of the area with mile-by-mile features.

The numbers next to the features are the mile markers to help you along.

You will also find recommendations and informative articles featuring hiking trails, waterfalls, Lake Superior beaches, downtown areas, and much more.

A fold-out map of the entire route is inside the back cover, and a helpful Lodging Guide is located at the end of the booklet.

Plan your North Shore adventure!

Minnesota’s North Shore of Lake Superior is an amazing and inspiring place to visit! The North Shore Explorer guide will help you plan, explore, and make the most of your North Shore adventure!

The North Shore Explorer guide is the only comprehensive guide of Minnesota’s North Shore of Lake Superior.

Find out more about me here. Follow me on Instagram and Facebook .

FOLLOW @NorthShoreExplorerMN

April 26, 2023

Looking for the best things to do on the North Shore? For the best hiking on the North Shore, incredible waterfalls, great food, beaches, and more on the North Shore, read on!

Why me? I’ve spent the last three years living on and exploring the North Shore in all seasons! I work as a sea kayaking guide and freelance outdoor writer, and have lived and worked in both Grand Marais and Two Harbors, MN. The North Shore is a beautiful place to visit, and I’m happy to show you some of my favorite spots & hidden gems!

30 Best Things to do on the North Shore of Minnesota

The North Shore, or the northern shore of Lake Superior in Minnesota, is one of the best places to vacation in the Midwest! Here you’ll find easily some of the best hiking in the United States, waterfalls, cozy Nordic-inspired towns, and so much more!

I’ve lived on the North Shore for almost three years now, and here are some of my favorite places to go and things to do:

Oh hi there! This post contains affiliate links! That means if you decide to make a purchase based on my recommendation, I make a small kickback at no additional cost to you. All reccomendations are my own!

Leave No Trace on the North Shore:

When recreating outdoors on the North Shore of Minnesota, it is important to pack out all trash including toilet paper and orange peels. Keep in mind that different areas have different LNT (Leave No Trace) expectations— on the North Shore you will encounter State Parks, State Forests, National Forests, and Wilderness Areas. Best practices vary from place to place. 

There is not reliable cell service throughout some areas of the North Shore. Winters can be very harsh. Some hiking trails may be overgrown, slippery, or difficult. Plan adventures accordingly.

When recreating on the North Shore of Minnesota, you are recreating on the cultural homeland of the Grand Portage Ojibwe Indigenous Tribe. Keep in mind that all land in the area may have cultural, historical, and archeological significance. For this reason especially, leave everything as it was found. 

Looking for more info on LNT on the North Shore? Check out these 9 Tips to Leave No Trace when recreating in Northern Minnesota!

Further LNT notes will be discussed under specific trailhead recommendations as necessary, including additional risks, permits, ect.

I have this sorted with my favorite must-do North Shore activities ranked closer to #1!

For a more complete guide to recreation on the North Shore including surrounding areas, an interactive map, and lesser-known attractions, check out my eBook Exploring the North Shore !

What should i pack for a trip to the north shore.

Summers on Lake Superior can be chilly! I recommend dressing warmer than you expect!

• 2 lightweight, long hiking pants. I wear a size 8 and am short, and find the  REI trailmade  to be super flattering as well as the  Kuhl freeflex .
• A pair of  shorts , and  yoga pants with pockets 
• A fleece. Any fleece will do, but I really love my  Patagonia Synchilla
• Wool baselayers. Five years of heavy paddling and my  Smartwool baselayers  are the only wool baselayers I’ve had that have really stood the test of time. For seven days, pack four baselayer tops. 
• Study hiking boots. I like my  Briger Mids.  Working in outdoor retail I literally never had anyone try on these shoes and not buy them. Pair with  Darn Tough  hiking socks and pack at least five pairs. In the alpine areas,  trekking poles  are also a great choice!
• hiking sandals
• Quick dry shots: I like Patagonia Baggies
• A puffy jacket. It can be cool even in the summer near the lakeshore, especially evenings. My partner Andy (also a wilderness guide) swears by the  Patagonia Nano Puff . I like my  Helly Hansen Liftloft . 
• If camping, a tent, packable sleeping bag ( Nemo Disco ) and pad ( comfortable sleeping pad ):  Read my budget tent recommendations here!
• A day hiking pack: I love my  Perimeter 35L . I was gifted this pack a few years back and it’s still my go-to day pack; a savvy packer can easily pack for a seven day hiking trip in this bag. 
• A raincoat. I love the  Moss Raincoat from Helly Hansen ; It’s affordable, cute, and super durable.
• The Exploring the Midwest eBook Bundle !

30) Hike Oberg Mountain

Looking for one of the best easy hikes on the North Shore of Minnesota? Oberg Mountain is one of the best easy hikes on the North Shore, leading to both overlooks of Lake Superior and a classic, perfect circle overlook of an inland lake. 

The perfect circle lake that is Oberg Mountain, shot on iphone & edited with my Lightroom mobile preset “Rainbow”, designed for editing sunset photos shot on whatever camera is in your pocket💕 Use the code NORTHSHORE20 for 20% off presets as a thank you for reading!

This hike is great in the summer but be warned! Come fall the parking lot fills and spills over to the point that almost 200-cars may be lined up down the road before 8 am. There are plenty of other, equally beautiful fall hikes in the area— I recommend skipping this one.

29) Grab Breakfast at Blue Water Café

Nestled in downtown Grand Marais with a Harbor View, Blue Water Cafe is the best spot to grab breakfast on the North Shore!

28) Hike Lutsen Mountains

Looking for a challenging hiking route? Check out the Superior Hiking Trail near Lutsen Mountains for some of the more difficult hiking and mountain biking on the North Shore. 

I hike in a pair of Oboz Bridger Mids. The North Shore hiking trails are often more rugged than trails you see otherwise– I picked up a thru-hiker once who told me the Superior Hiking Trail is much harder than the Appalachian Trail. I like the Bridgers because they’re insulated, waterproof, with great traction and excellent ankle support.

But wait! You can take the gondola up and hike back down!

27) Stop in at Duluth Gear Exchange

Before you hit scenic Highway 61, stop in at Duluth Gear Exchange in downtown Duluth! Here, you can score some discounted used gear and pick up that raincoat you forgot at a fraction of the price of a new coat. 

Have a backlog of gear you don’t use? Duluth Gear Exchange also also you to consign your gear and make a few dollars back off the gear you don’t use anymore!

26) Drive the Gunflint Trail

Looking for one of the prettiest scenic drives on the North Shore and the best place to see wildlife in the Midwest? A drive up the Gunflint Trail is your best chance to see foxes, lynx, wolves, moose, and more. 

DRIVE SLOW ON THE GUNFLINT TRAIL! Every year moose are hit by cars. Please note that even though the Gunflint Trail is the best place to spot wildlife on the North Shore and in Grand Marais, it is not guaranteed and still rather unlikely that you see a moose. Most wildlife photographers in the area drive the trail many, many times in order to spot a moose even once. Your best chance of spotting wildlife is to go early in the morning, drive slowly, and be respectful of other drivers. 

Note that it is best practice to never leave your vehicle when spotting wildlife and shoot only out your car window. If an animal changes its behavior because of you, you are too close. Moose, wolves, lynx, foxes, etc are wild animals. For the best place to see wildlife on the North Shore, head to the Duluth Zoo.

25) Hike to High Falls in Grand Portage

Looking to see one of the largest waterfalls (partially) in Minnesota? Head up to Grand Portage on the Canadian Border and hike the short, paved path to High Falls! This waterfall looks like something straight out of Iceland, and is one of the best easy hiking trails on the North Shore.

24) Stop at Coho Cafe

Coho Cafe has the best sandwiches you’ll eat probably ever, and is the perfect lunch treat after a long, hard day on the hiking trails!

23) Camp at Hungry Hippie Hostel

Looking for a unique place to camp in Grand Marais? Head up to Hungry Hippie Hostel just north of town for a beginner friendly camping or glamping experience. Rooms are also available, and the property has communal fire pits and beautiful views of Lake Superior from above!

22) Hike to Bean & Bear 

Summer 2024 edit: bean and bear lakes hike is closed as of may 15th 2024 for trail maintenance and campsite rehabilitation. there is still an sht bypass for thru-hikers, but access to the lakes, overlooks, and campsites is restricted until further notice..

Looking for one of the more challenging (and popular!) hikes on the North Shore? This 6-7 mile route takes hikers up into the Sawtooth Highlands with overlooks of Lake Superior, Sliver Bay, and several overlooks of the iconic Bean & Bear Lakes . 

Pictured above, my Grantie Gear 35L pack is the pack I use for longer day hikes. Granite Gear is local to Two Harbors, MN right on the North Shore. I was gifted this pack three years ago and still regularly use it and am considering buying one of the larger packs for backpacking trips. Granite Gear makes a really great, size-inclusive pack.

In the grand scheme of North Shore hikes, this route would be considered moderate in difficulty with some uphills and sections with difficult footing. 

After hiking Bean & Bear, head into Timber Coffee in Silver Bay for a Bean & Bear Latte!

21) Hike Caribou Rock Trail

Caribou Rock Trail is tucked away up the Gunflint Trail and is easily the most difficult day hike in Minnesota— it’s also one of the most beautiful! Portions of this hike head through the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness; day use permits are required. 

This iconic hike starts out with a less than one mile hike to an east-facing overlook of Bearskin Lake. This is a great place to catch a sunrise. From here, continue on to the Moss Lake Overlook. Hiking just to the Moss Lake Overlook and back will put you at about three miles round trip of moderate hiking in the Superior National Forest (no permit required).

From left to right: 1) Rose Falls, the destination of the CRT. 2) The Bearskin Lake Overlook, accessible in the first mile. 3) The Moss Lake Overlook, accessible in 3-4 miles round trip .

For a more challenging hiking and to enter the BWCAW, continue on!

First, you will reach “the wall’— this is an almost straight drop in the trail with tree roots to scale. The first time I saw it, I literally did not believe that the trail went straight down like that and wondered if I was lost. You almost need ropes to scale the wall.

Be advised that the next three miles of trail to Rose Falls and the Rose Lake Overlooks are about as friendly looking as the wall. This is an incredibly difficult hike with no cell service over difficult terrain. Proceed with extreme caution. 

Alternately , canoe in to Rose Falls and hike west on the Border Route Trail to Rose Lake Cliffs for a beautiful, but still difficult day trip.

20) Eat at Rustic Inn

Looking for the best place for pie on the North Shore? Swing by Rustic Inn at Castle Danger for some of the most incredible pie you’ll ever taste. 

19) Hike Honeymoon Bluff

Honeymoon Bluff is a great easy day hike up the Gunflint Trail leading to a beautiful overlook! This is a great place to watch the sunset or to catch the Northern Lights if you’re extra lucky!

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18) Canoe the BWCA

A Boundary Waters Canoe trip is the quintessential Minnesota adventure, and there’s no better place to start your trip than Grand Marais, Minnesota.

looking to plan a BWCA trip but don’t know where to start? Check out t his detailed guide to planning your first Boundary Waters Canoe Trip!

17) catch the northern lights.

Did you know that Northern Minnesota is one of the best places to catch the Northern Lights in the lower 48!? 

While still relatively uncommon, it is totally possible to catch an incredible northern lights show on the North Shore of Minnesota. Most common in the spring and fall near equinox, the North Shore is both dark enough and far enough north to see great Northern Lights shows!

The best places to see the Northern Lights on the North Shore are up the Gunflint Trail, Palisade Head Overlook, or any lake with open horizon to the North!

16) Visit Artist’s Point in Grand Marais

Looking for one of the most iconic lighthouse hikes on the North Shore? Head up to Grand Marais, Minnesota and check out Artist’s Point. Here, you can walk the breakwater or the tombolo trails and check out the Lighthouse itself and all of the fun boats moored in the harbor for the summer!

Pro Tip!! While Grand Marais is most often visited in the summer, the Winter is a wonderful time to visit as well. Dress warm & enjoy! In the meantime, check out 10 Winter Adventures in Grand Marais

15) Grab Coffee at Cedar Coffee Co

Looking for the perfect place to spend a summer afternoon socializing or grab a coffee? Head to Cedar Coffee Co in Two Harbors for some of the best lattes you’ll find on the shore, delicious food, a short hiking trail, and a fun bike shop to check out!

Lines can be long in summer months, but don’t worry! There’s plenty explore while you wait.

14) Backpack the Superior Hiking Trail

For one of the most hardcore adventures on the North Shore, backpack the Superior Hiking Trail! The Superior Hiking Trail is a 300-mile trail that runs from the Canadian Border down to Duluth along the ridges and highlands near Lake Superior! 

Most of the best hiking on the North Shore is along the Superior Hiking Trail. Whether you tackle a day trip, a few nights, or carve out a month to tackle the whole trail, you’re sure to have an awesome experience on this difficult hiking trail!

Looking for a unique Superior Hiking Trail experience? Check out Boreal Backcountry Cabins , hike-in cabins accessible from Oberg Mountain Trailhead or Britton Peak Trailhead. These cabins are screened-in with well water, firepits and wood, with solar-powered lights and a place to charge your phone. These cabins are perfect for thru-hikers, glampers, and/or basecampers looking to explore a beautiful section of the Superior Hiking Trail.

New to backpacking? Check out this beginner guide to planning and packing for your first backpacking trip!

13) visit grand portage national monument.

Grand Portage National Monument is one of the best places on the North Shore to learn about the Indigenous Ojibwe History in the area! Here, you can visit the interpretive fort, learn at the museum, and hike the beautiful Mount Rose hike to view the historic fort and Grand Portage Bay from above. 

On a clear day, you can even see Isle Royale National Park in the distance! 

12) Eat at Angry Trout

Tucked away on the Grand Marais waterfront, the Angry Trout serves delicious fresh fish, beautiful salads, wild rice, and more! This beautiful restaurant is easily one of the best places to eat on the North Shore, and perfect for a a romantic couples dinner.

11) Sauna at Sisu and Loyly Sauna in Grand Marais

Looking for the best sauna in Minnesota? Check out Sisu and Loyly Sauna right on Lake Superior in Grand Marais! This sauna offers both luxury private sessions and community style sauna!

Fun fact! I used to work here the first year they opened! The owner Katie is an incredible person, and this is one of my favorite jobs I’ve had to date! I used to live in the apartment (now Airbnb !) above the sauna lounge which was the easiest commute ever, and you can’t beat that view!

10) Hike or Ski Pincushion Mountain in Grand Marais

If you’re staying in Grand Marais, you must hike to Pincushion Mountain! This is a four-mile round trip relatively flat hike leading to a beautiful overlook of Lake Superior. Pincushion mountain hiking trail is the perfect place to watch the moonrise, and one of the best hiking trails on the North Shore. 

Looking for a winter adventure? Pincushion Mountain also has some of the best cross country ski trails in the state of Minnesota!

9) Visit the Temperance River Gorge

For one of the best short and easy hikes on the North Shore, visit Temperance River Gorge! This dramatic series of waterfalls looks like something out of a fairytale, and has an intricate network of hiking trails to explore as well as several easier and shorter routes with stairs and beautiful bridges. 

8) Hike to Magnetic Rock

Looking for one of the most magical day hikes on the North Shore? Head up the Gunflint Trail from Grand Marais to hike out to Magnetic Rock— a mysterious 30 ft tall standing stone in the woods that happens to be magnetic!

Magnetic Rock Trail at first snow vs Magnetic Rock Trial in the Fall!

This hike is a great place to spot moose, beaver, and other wildlife, and features several overlooks in addition to the Magnetic Rock. Parts of this hike go through the regrowth area of the Ham Lake Fire, making it extra otherworldly. 

7) Swim in Lake Superior at Black Beach

One of the best places to have a picnic and a swim on the North Shore is Black Beach Park near Silver Bay! Here, you can find a campground, pretty island views, and icy cold water to take a dip in!

6) Stay and eat at Cascade Lodge

Cascade Lodge is located about 15 minutes south of Grand Marais, and walking distance from the beautiful Cascade River State Park! Between the location, the view, and the delicious food, Cascade Lodge is one of the best places to stay on the North Shore!

5) Hungry Hippie Tacos in Grand Marais

Fresh off the trails and looking for a filling and delicious meal? Head over to Hungry Hippie Taco in Grand Marais for fry bread tacos, tater tots, and an ice cold beer!

4) Backpack the Border Route Trail

Are you an experienced backpacker looking for a challenging but rewarding trail? Journey into the BWCA and strap on a backpack and hiking boots instead of a canoe! The 65-mile Border Route Trail (BRT) is one of the most beautiful backpacking trails in the country, featuring dramatic waterfalls, sweeping views, and some of the most difficult to follow terrain in North America!

This hike is not well maintained and has many areas with difficult footing. Some maps have the trail marked incorrectly. This backpacking trail is best attempted only by experienced backpackers. Permits are required in the BWCA.

3) Eat at Poplar Haus

Tucked halfway up the Gunflint Trail, Poplar Haus is one of the best-kept secrets on the North Shore! This delicious stop has unique and mouth watering menu items like duck wings, walleye, and wide selection of delicious cocktails.

2) Visit Split Rock Lighthouse

Did you know that Minnesota is home to one of the most iconic lighthouses in the United States? Split Rock Lighthouse State Park should be your very first stop on the North Shore! This photogenic lighthouse overlooks a cliff, and the dramatic shoreline is ripe for hiking. 

In the summer months, take a tour of the historic lighthouse! Tackle any of the many miles of hiking trails around the State Park, or book one of the beautiful lakeside backpack-in campsites to camp in some of the best lakefront campsites on Lake Superior!

1) Hike Tettegouche State Park

The single best place to visit on the North Shore is Tettegouche State Park , in Silver Bay, Minnesota. This expansive park is home to the iconic High Falls waterfall, Palisade Head, the Shovel Point cliffside hiking trail, and miles more of trails and overlooks along the Superior Hiking Trail and beyond. 

Tettegouche State Park is a great place for hikers, or anyone looking for some of the best hiking trails on the North Shore. You could spend an entire summer exploring Tettegouche and the surrounding trails alone, and still come up with more incredible hidden gems every day.

check out a detailed guide to hiking Tettegouche State Park!

Where to stay on the north shore:.

To stay on the southern half of the North Shore with access to places like Two Harbors, Gooseberry Falls, Split Rock Lighthouse, Duluth and Castle Danger, book at Larsmont Cottages or Grand Superior Lodge .

For best access to Tettegouche State Park, check out Black Beach Inn or Cove Point Lodge .

For best access to Grand Marais, Lutsen, and the hiking and waterfalls of the northern North Shore, check out Lutsen Sea Villas , Lutsen Mountain Inn , or Thomsonite Inn.

State park campgrounds are also a great option for overnight trips on the North Shore! Note that campgrounds often fill up months in advance!

Is the North Shore, Minnesota a good place to visit with kids?

The North Shore can be a great place to visit with kids! There are plenty of easy hiking trails and beaches that kids will love to check out! Keep in mind that in summer months it can be extremely busy— this means you may not be able to find a restaurant that can seat you quickly. In Grand Marais in the summer, expect wait times near one hour or more at most times of day. 

Plan ahead and pack snacks! 

What is the weather like on the North Shore of Minnesota?

Weather along the North Shore of Lake Superior can be wildly variable throughout the summer, and very cold in the winter. In the summer, expect for the mile closest to the Lake to be 10-20 degrees cooler than the temperature inland. 

Plan for fog, rain, heat, and breezy days! 

Are the bugs bad on the North Shore?

Expect mosquitos and black flies May-September. I am sorry.

What is the best time of year to visit the North Shore of Minnesota?

The best time of year to visit the North Shore is the fall! I recommend coming sometime between the last week of September and second week of October on a weekday— weekends in the fall can be very very crowded with leaf peepers!

Everywhere along the shore peaks for fall color at a different time, and often times the maples and birch trees peak at different times. Roughly speaking, the area near Lutsen and the maples peak first, followed by the rest of the ridge and inland. The shore and the birch trees tend to peak last. Peaks of the different areas throughout the North Shore happen beginning end of September, and sometimes continue through the second and third week of October. 

For a visit to the North Shore, you’ll want to pack a sturdy pair of hiking boots, non-cotton hiking pants, a wool or synthetic base layer top, a fleece mid layer, and a raincoat! 

Forget your gear on the way up? Stop by Duluth Gear Exchange to shop used outdoor gear!

How worried do I need to be about Bears on the North Shore?

Medium! While you are unlikely to see a bear, wolf, lynx, or moose while hiking, definitely be bear smart when you store your food while camping. This means picking up all fallen food off the ground, and storing all food and smellable (toothpaste, bug spray) in a bear proof container and in a bear hang, and definitely not in your tent. 

With this in mind, you definitely don’t need to be afraid of wildlife while hiking. The bears here are more scared of you than you are of them! Follow general wildlife safety and do not approach wildlife or get between a mother and cubs, and don’t stress too much while hiking! You are extremely unlikely to see wildlife on a hike. 

Where can I learn more about hiking, free camping, and what to do on the North Shore?

Check out my eBook & interactive map Exploring the North Shore for free campsites, hidden waterfalls, detailed itineraries for all seasons, and off-the-beaten path adventures!

The interactive map that accompanies the Exploring the North Shore eBook!

Check out the Midwest Adventure eBook Bundle for over 300+ pages of detailed adventure planning including hidden waterfalls, the best campsites, off-the-beaten-path adventures, and more covering Sleeping Bear to the end of the Gunflint Trail and everything in-between!

Where should i explore next.

• For more on the North Shore, check out 13 Stunning Hikes on the North Shore
• To learn more about visiting the nearby Gunflint Trail, check out Six Best Hikes on the Gunflint Trail
• For off-the-beaten-path waterfalls, check out 8 Hidden Waterfalls on the North Shore
• For 30 Things to do in the Apostle Islands, click here
• For 30 Things to do in the Pictured Rocks, click here

Love reading about Midwest Adventure? Check out the  Hello Stranger Newsletter .  Join the newsletter today to connect with thousands of like-minded adventurers and get gritty and honest adventure stories delivered right to your inbox (aka read my diary).

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Our 19 Favorite Things To Do on the North Shore, MN

• Updated September 29, 2021

One of the very best day trips from the Twin Cities is the beautiful drive up to Minnesota’s North Shore.

Minnesota’s Scenic Highway 61 weaves along the Great Lake Superior shoreline, and along the way, this trip is packed full of beautiful water views, Minnesota timber land, and… plenty of awesome stops!

From Minneapolis to the Canadian border is just over a 5 hours drive. Thankfully though, there’s no need to make that drive in one sitting.

Today’s article highlights our 19 favorite stops and things to do along the North Shore in Minnesota. From the most popular state parks to the best hidden beaches, we’re sharing all our favorite finds from our many, many trips through this beautiful part of our state.

Map of Attractions and Things To Do on Minnesota’s North Shore

1. Tobies Bakery (Hinckley, MN)

Since 1948, Tobies has expanded from a cozy bakery into what’s essentially now a massive rest stop. That’s why it’s the prefect place to fuel up, both for your car and yourself!

Located just over an hour outside the Twin Cities, “Minnesota’s Famous Halfway stop” is always our first stop before a long drive up Minnesota’s North Shore.

Here, you can find Tobies famous baked goods. We’re total suckers for their cardamom bread, but we also can’t help from grabbing a quick donut for the road, too! For us, their glazed are some of the best anywhere, but Tobies also has a loyal following of their apple fritters and fried cinnamon rolls.

For those needing a longer break, Tobies also has a full restaurant, tavern, car wash, and convenience store.

• Distance from The Cities: 80 miles (1 hour 20 minutes)
• Website: Tobies

2. Banning State Park (Sandstone, MN)

Banning State Park is the first of many state parks along Minnesota’s North Shore. This park is a popular favorite among kayakers, hikers, and campers. Highlights of Banning include river rapids and historic buildings, leftover from the days when the park was a sandstone quarry.

• Distance from The Cities: 90 miles (1 hour 25 minutes)
• Website: Banning State Park

3. The City of Duluth (Duluth, MN)

Duluth has long been a popular tourist destination for Twin Cities residents. This blue-collar shipping town sits at the southernmost tip of the great Lake Superior. With rolling river bluffs and long shorelines, Duluth is a beautiful clash between scenic nature and rustic engineering.

While the town isn’t the same booming shipping port it once was, it’s still an active shipping center that’s experienced a modern revitalization. Today, not only can travelers watch huge barges float underneath the picturesque Aerial Lift Bridge, but the city also offers tons of other things to do, including:

• Breweries & Distilleries: Duluth features Vikre Distillery, Bent Paddle, Fitger’s, Black List, Duluth Cider, Hoops Brewing, Ursa Minor Brewing, and Canal Park Brewing. If that’s not enough, a 5 minute drive across the bridge to Superior, WI uncovers Earth Rider Brewing and Thirty Pagan Brewing.
• Culture: The Glensheen Mansion, Duluth Rose Garden, Duluth Children’s Musem, Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center, Great Lakes Aquarium, Lake Superior Zoo, and the S.S. William A. Irvin Ore Boat Museum.
• Outdoor Activities: The Duluth Lakewalk, Brighton Beach, Enger Park and Tower, and Spirit Mountain.

There’s enough things to do in Duluth that many of our Northern excursions have ended right there. But for the true North Shore traveler, Duluth is a fantastic halfway point that’s worth spending a night or two.

• Distance from The Cities: 155 miles (2 hours 20 minutes)

4. Castle Danger Brewery (Two Harbors, MN)

Castle Danger is one of the most popular breweries in Minnesota, so no North Shore excursion would be complete without a stop for one of their signature Cream Ales!

• Distance from the Cities: 180 miles (2 hours 50 minutes)
• Website: Castle Danger

5. Pie Country (Two Harbors, MN)

Okay, we totally made that name up. But we think it’s pretty fitting, considering that for whatever reason, Two Harbors boasts some of the best pie restaurants you can find anywhere.

The most popular, by far, is Betty’s Pies. Betty’s delicious pies are a huge tourist draw, but we’ll let you in on an insider’s tip. For our personal favorite pies, head a few miles up the road to the Rustic Inn Cafe, and then order their “North Shore Berry Crumb” pie ASAP. You will thank us later.

• Distance from the Cities: 185 miles (3 hours)

6. Gooseberry Falls State Park (Two Harbors, MN)

Gooseberry Falls is Minnesota’s most popular state park outside of the Twin Cities. Each year, over 600,000 visitors head to the beautiful cascading waterfalls of the Gooseberry River.

Accessing the falls is easy. The park maintains a well-developed visitor’s center, and the main attraction, the Middle and Upper Falls, can be reached with a short 30-40 minute, ADA accessible “Waterfalls Walk.” There’s also a longer route with stairs, known as the “Falls View Loop” which takes 45-90 minutes and lets you see the Lower Falls, too.

• Distance from the Cities: 195 miles (3 hours)
• Website: Gooseberry Falls State Park

7. Red Sand Beaches at Iona’s Beach (Two Harbors, MN)

You’ve heard of white sand beaches, you’ve heard of black sand beaches (some of which you can find later on this North Shoe road trip) but have you heard of red sand beaches? That’s what you can find at Iona’s Beach.

This stop isn’t well marked, but it’s worth the 10 minute exploration. To get to this hiddem gem, turn into the Iona’s Beach and Boat Landing area, and then follow the paths into the woods. Depending on the path you take, you’ll eventually come onto a small beach covered in smooth pink rocks. Walk 2 minutes past that beach and you’ll uncover the much larger, half-mile long Lona’s Beach.

• Distance from the Cities: 200 miles (3 hours 5 minutes)

8. Split Rock Lighthouse (Two Harbors, MN)

Split Rock Lighthouse is a Minnesota classic, and definitely one of the North Shore’s most defining features.

As the legend goes, Split Rock earned its nickname thanks to its rocky coastline, which juts out from the land and had a tendency to split ships right in two! After a single storm in 1905 damaged nearly thirty ships, the U.S. Lighthouse service installed the lighthouse and fog siren to warn oncoming boats.

Today, the lighthouse is considered one of the most picturesque lighthouses in the country. To see it for yourself, you have a couple options:

• The Split Rock Scenic Overlook – This stop along Highway 61 is the easiest option for a perfect photo opportunity.
• Split Rock State Park – To see the lighthouse up close (or even climb the stairs inside to the top!) purchase admission to the state park.
• Pebble Beach – For a dramatic view looking up at the Lighthouse, drive down the Split Rock Lighthouse road until you reach parking for Pebble Beach.
• Distance from the Cities: 205 miles (3 hours 10 minutes)
• Website: Split Rock Lighthouse

9. Black Beach (Silver Bay, MN)

This is one of our favorite stops along the North Shore!

Black Beach is a super unique beach located in Silver Bay, but its appearance might have you thinking you’re on another planet!

As you can probably tell from the name, the sand here is made up of fine, black pebbles that feel oh-so-nice on the feet. What you might not be able to tell from the name is that black beach is not one, but two beaches! The sand here is framed by stunning red rock formations that create two inlets, and the result is a beautiful double coastline that looks like something otherworldly.

Unfortunately, the trademark black sand is actually the result of Taconite mining. For decades, miners dumped taconite waste into Lake Superior, which eventually got washed ashore by the waves. After the fisherman started complaining, the miners stopped dumping.

Thankfully, the fish eventually returned, and today Black Beach is a popular hangout for sun tanners and picnic goers. You don’t want to miss this one!

• Distance from the Cities: 210 miles (3 hours 20 minutes)

10. Palisade Head (Beaver Bay Township, MN)

If it’s jaw dropping views you’re after, Palisade Head overlook may have the most dramatic Lake Superior Views on the entire North Shore.

Palisade Head is technically located inside Tettegouche State Park, but it’s really more of a scenic overlook than a formal park. You don’t need a park pass to visit – just look for the marker off the highway. A few minutes after navigating this slow, steep, and narrow drive, you’ll find yourself at a small parking lot perched on top of dramatic lakeside cliffs.

The cliffs themselves were formed by lava flows, over 1.1 billion years ago. The result? Absolutely stunning views!

If you’re feeling brave, go ahead and peek over the 90+ degree sheer cliffs, and try not to get dizzy while making out the shoreline, over 300 feet below. Be warned – there’s no guard rails here. If you prefer to lie on your stomach and carefully crawl towards the edge like a baby… we won’t blame you!

Don’t miss our complete guide to Palisade Head !

• Distance from the Cities: 215 miles (3 hours 25 minutes)

11. Tettegouche State Park

At over 9,000 acres, Tettegouche State Park is the largest state park along the Minnesota North Shore. The park features over a mile of Lake Superior shoreline, endless hiking trails, multiple waterfalls, a few lakes, and several campsites.

The most popular hikes here are the Tettegouche State Park  Trail (1.6 miles) Baptism River Trail (2.9 miles) and Shovel Point (1.2 miles).

• Distance from the Cities: 215 miles (2 hours 25 minutes)
• Website: Tettegouche State Park

12. Temperance River Gorge

Temperance River Gorge, located in the Temperance River State Park , might be one of the most popular hikes along the North Shore. And for good reason! This hike brings fantastic scenery, with a trailhead that’s literally on the highway.

The hike starts with a dramatic view of the river gorge, before climbing rocky steps and are greeted with an aerial view of waterfalls and natural potholes from the perfectly placed pedestrian bridge. From there, the hike continues upwards for even more gorge views before the ecology shifts towards a peaceful river with a wooded forest.

This hike really has it all, and Lily and I both agreed it may be our favorite overall hike along the North Shore. You can check out our full guide to the hike here.

• Distance from the Cities: 235 miles (3 hours 45 minutes)
• Website: Temperance River State Park

13. North Shore Winery (Lutsen, MN)

The only winery on Minnesota’s North Shore is aptly named! North Shore Winery sits on a beautiful piece of land in Lutsen, MN. Located halfway from the shoreline to the base of Lutsen Mountains, this higher elevation outdoor space allows you to just barely sneak views of Lake Superior off in the distance.

But funny enough, it’s not the views that keep us coming back. It’s the relaxing vibe from a quiet, peaceful patio. (Bonus points for being dog friendly.) On a recent visit, they even let us take a hike around the the ground’s newly made trails!

• Distance from the Cities: 245 miles (4 hours)
• Website: North Shore Winery

14. The Town of Grand Marais (Grand Marais, MN)

Grand Marais is the type of place where as soon as you arrive, you can feel all your problems melt away.

Somehow, this town is able to perfectly balance that line between tourist convenience and authentic local village. Sure, there’s the heavily marketed Sven and Ole’s Pizza and the boldly named World’s Best Donuts, but instead of being tourist traps, both are actually pretty darn good. Not to mention, there’s also a legitimate collection of local art galleries, freshly caught seafood, and of course, the beautiful, picturesque lighthouse, just begging for a sunset stroll each night.

This is the kind of place you can easily spend a weekend lounging around, only to wish you had an excuse to seriously extend your stay.

• Distance from the Cities: 265 miles (4 hours 20 minutes)

15. Devil’s Kettle at Judge C.R. Magney State Park

Located inside Judge C.R. Magney State park is a mysterious waterfall that’s has been puzzling scientists and visitors for decades. Inside this park, the Brule River splits into two waterfalls. The waterfall on the right spills over a rocks, just like you’d expect. The one on the left? It pours into a giant hole and seems to disappear.

For decades, studies trying to solve the mystery have ended in nothing more than lost ping pong balls, GPS trackers, and (allegedly) a whole car. People speculated the hole may lead to a giant underground river or a sepearate outlook to Lake Superior, but even these explanations didn’t quite add up, for various geological reasons.

Finally, in 2016, hydrologist Jeff Green thinks he found the answer by measuring the river’s flow. His data suggests the hole leads back to the river, and to that we say… “Quit ruining our fun mystery, man!”

In any case, the 2 mile roundtrip hike to Devil’s Kettle is still a unique adventure, and one of our favorite things to do along the North Shore of Minnesota!

• Distance from the Cities: 280 miles (4 hours 35 minutes)
• Website: Judge C.R. Magney State Park

16. Wayswaugoing Bay Overlook (Grand Portage, MN)

This scenic overlook gives you one of the most memorable Lake Superior views on the entire North Shore. From 400 feet up, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of Wayswaugoing Bay and Lake Superior’s Susie Islands. (Which is why it’s also commonly referred to as “The Susie Islands Overlook.”)

Aside from the beautiful observation deck, this overlook also includes several picnic tables. We love grabbing a picnic lunch from Grand Marais and stopping to eat it here!

• Distance from the Cities: 300 miles (5 hours)

17. Grand Portage National Monument (Grand Portage, MN)

Located in the town of Grand Portage, this National Monument serves as a tribute to the history of the Anishinaabeg Ojibwe people and the region’s fur trading past.

The monument includes several interesting galleries along with  volunteers and park staff who dress in period attire and explain life during the 18th century.

• Website: Grand Portage National Monument

18. Isle Royale National Park (Michigan)

Isyle Royale is a fascinating hidden gem in the U.S. National Park System. One of the five least visited National Parks in the country, this island is only open May to September. Isle Royale is completely roadless and accessible only by boat or seaplane.

For North Shore visitors, the easiest way to get there is by taking the Voyageur II ferry . This ferry usually departs from Grand Marais every two days, and then takes the scenic route for a full view of the island. Once arrived, you step foot onto one of the most remote and undeveloped pieces of land in the country. (Isle Royale might be most famous for their wolf and moose population studies, since the secluded location provides the perfect research environment.)

• Distance from the Cities: 300 miles + A Ferry Ride
• Website: Isle Royale National Park

19. Grand Portage State Park (Grand Portage, MN)

My first trip to Grand Portage State Park, I felt like I was driving to the end of the earth! As you continue your journey towards the end of Minnesota’s North Shore, the road gets less traveled, the land gets queieter, and eventually, you’ll reach the US/Canadian border crossing and right next to it, Grand Portage State Park.

This small little state park is one of my personal favorites. Step out of the car and you’re greeted with… silence . From there, you can hike to Minnesota’s highest waterfall – The High Falls.

This 120 foot tall waterfall is certainly worth the easy 1 mile, fully paved hike to get there. There’s also a certain sense of accomplishment from knowing you’ve officially reached the end of Minnesota’s North Shore!

• Distance from the Cities: 305 miles (5 hours 5 minutes)
• Website: Grand Portage State Park

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Road trips are a great way to explore areas with gorgeous scenery and quaint little towns. One of our favorite road trips is along Minnesota’s North Shore scenic drive on Highway 61. If you grew up in Minnesota, like me, you know that the North Shore means the beautiful shore of Lake Superior, not somewhere in Hawaii. Add in some amazing state parks and the quiet Boundary Waters Canoe Area, and you’ve got the perfect summer vacation or peak fall color leaf-peeping adventure. 

We are breaking down the basic info you need to know about Minnesota’s north shore and sharing our 20 favorite things to do along the shore of Lake Superior in Northern Minnesota.

What is Minnesota’s North Shore and How Do You Visit?

Lake Superior is the largest freshwater lake in the world and sits along the northeast border of Minnesota. The Scenic Drive includes Highway 61 runs from Duluth to the Canadian Border and serves up some of the most beautiful scenery the midwest has to offer. This section of the state is called the “North Shore” and it’s one of the most underrated spots to visit in the country. 

How to Get to Minnesota’s North Shore Region?

There is an airport in Duluth, MN with daily flights from cities in the Midwest and connections through Minneapolis/St. Paul airport. You can also get more inexpensive flights to MSP in the Twin Cities which is just a two hour drive from Duluth, so it’s an easy road trip. Plus, there are so many awesome things to do in the Twin Cities , so you shouldn’t skip that.

Where to Stay on Minnesota’s North Shore Scenic Drive

There are many different places to stay along the Lake Superior scenic drive. These are a few of our favorites (plus one that we have on our wishlist for the future):

• Larsmont Cottages –  beautiful cabins and cottages between Duluth and Two Harbors that are great for people wanting to stay on the southern end of the route
• J Gregers Inn – we haven’t actually stayed here, but we love the name and we know that it was recently bought by new owners who are working to fix it up
• Bluefin Bay Resorts – this spot is great for anyone with dogs and bigger groups, plus there are some brand new condos that would make for a romantic, quiet couple’s getaway
• East Bay Suites – this spot has a great location right in Grand Marais where you can walk to some of the spots on our list and enjoy being in the heart of one of the best small towns in America

Obviously, camping in all the state parks is magical as well and I would recommend trying it for at least a few nights. Airbnbs are available all along the North Shore Scenic Drive as well if you want something a little more off the beaten path.

How Long is the North Shore Scenic Drive?

This drive along Minnesota’s north shore is 145 miles without any detours and takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes. But we suggest taking at least a few days to explore because there are so many places to stop and explore. If you want to do everything on our list, it’s probably best to give yourself at least four days.

How Many State Parks are on Minnesota’s North Shore Scenic Drive?

There are eight state parks along the Voyageur Highway with a few Waysides that are managed by the state. Most of these parks feature waterfalls and rivers that feed into Lake Superior. You can enjoy the hiking trails, campgrounds, and beautiful viewpoints at the parks. Many require a day pass, or you can purchase an annual pass for $35 that covers all the state parks in Minnesota.

Can You Drive All the Way Around Lake Superior?

The full Lake Superior Circle Tour travels through Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Ontario, Canada. It’s about 1,300 miles long and you can drive or bike the entire route. The North Shore Scenic Drive is just a portion of the full circle tour that goes through Minnesota from Duluth to Grand Portage at the US/Canada border. 

When is the Best Time to Take the North Shore Scenic Drive?

Autumn is the most beautiful time of year because you can enjoy the gorgeous color of the leaves changing while driving alongside the sparkling blue lake. Summer is just as popular, especially if you want to camp because the weather will be warm enough. Some of the attractions are not open in the winter and spring. Minnesota’s North Shore hits peak fall colors earlier than a lot of the country, so do a quick google search to see where the colors are at if you want to see it at the peak.

Our favorite time is right after Labor Day. It’s before the peak colors, but you get glimpses of them. Plus, the summer crowds have died down a bit because kids are back in school.

The 20 Best Stops on Minnesota’s North Shore Scenic Drive

These are our 20 favorite stops along Highway 61 on the north shore of Lake Superior. We have visited this region many times in our lifetimes (at least once a year while we lived in Minnesota) and these are the spots we just keep returning to. They are listed from south to north, so if you’re going to do it both ways, you can hit some on the way north and others on the way home.

Canal Park in Duluth

Duluth, MN is a busy harbor town with a few college and university campuses (including mine – go Bulldogs). Canal Park is the main tourist area with incredible restaurants and shopping. The main attraction is the Aerial Lift Bridge which raises up and stops traffic to allow giant ships to head through the canal and into the harbor. There is a free maritime museum next to the canal where you can learn about the multiple shipwrecks in Lake Superior and see what ships throughout time have looked like.

New Scenic Cafe

One of the first stops on the Scenic Drive out of Duluth that we recommend is New Scenic Cafe . The menu is filled with local produce and seasonal goodies. Enjoy pickled fish and lefse to celebrate the Scandinavian routes for many people in this region, plus classics like burgers. Sample a few of the small plates or settle in for a beautiful dinner filled with comfort food. If you are visiting on a weekend, we recommend making a reservation because it does get busy during peak times.

Russ Kendall’s Smoke House

Ready to stock up on some road trip snacks? Russ Kendall’s Smoke House has a great selection of smoked local fish, cheese, and other snacks. This smokehouse had a fire a couple of years ago, but I was so excited that they rebuilt and were open for our last trip. If you love the fish, they also ship and it would be a fun way to enjoy the flavors of the North Shore when you get home as well.

Castle Danger Brewery in Two Harbors

Two Harbors is another town built around the port. It’s much smaller than Duluth, but offers up a selection of food, drink, and history. Visit the 3M Birthplace Museum or visit the harbor or stop into Castle Danger for a pint. This brewery is a popular choice for many Minnesotans. The Castle Cream Ale is one of the most unique and popular beers, but with at least ten different beers on tap, there’s something for all beer drinkers. Take the 30-minute brewery tour or just hang out and enjoy a cold one.

Betty’s Pies

Do you have a bit of a sweet tooth? Betty’s Pies is a classic Highway 61 destination. The shop opened in the 1950s when Betty’s father had a fish shack and she made donuts. Eventually, she expanded to hot dogs and hamburgers and then transitioned to a full cafe. Once she added pies to the menu, it became a staple and it’s what they are famous for. In the summer of 2020, they pumped out 700 pies each day. Choose between a cream pie or seasonal fruit pie (or both). There is still a full cafe menu for a meal as well. Just leave room for dessert.

Gooseberry Falls State Park

This is one of the most popular state parks along the scenic route. It can also be a really quick stop. The waterfall that the park is named for is a short walk from the parking lot (which is why it’s so popular). You can explore different viewpoints around the falls and most are really accessible so it’s good for strollers and wheelchairs. 

If you want to explore a bit more, there are many hiking trails or you can head down to the shores of Lake Superior to Agate Beach. It’s a great park to enjoy a picnic (or slice of pie that you got to go). 

Split Rock Lighthouse

The Split Rock Lighthouse is one of the most photographed spots in the entire state of Minnesota. This historic building was built to help protect ships on the lake’s rough waters and opened in 1910. You can tour the building and learn more about the history with an admission charge. It was decommissioned in 1969, but the lantern is still operational and it’s lit during special events each year. 

If you don’t have time to explore the museum and tour the lighthouse, you can enjoy a beautiful, and free, view of the lighthouse from Pebble Beach or the viewpoint right off of Highway 61. The lighthouse sits on top of a 130 foot cliff, so it’s very photogenic even if you are further away.

Hike to Bean and Bear Lakes Along Superior Hiking Trail

Ready for a longer hike? The Superior Hiking Trail is a popular route that travels the entire route of the Voyageur Highway. If you don’t have weeks to do this hike, you can enjoy some beautiful sections of the trail. 

The Bean and Bear Lakes Trail is a moderately challenging hike that takes you to a few lakes that are nowhere near as large as Lake Superior, but they offer some beautiful views that are worth the adventure. The hike takes around 3 hours (more if you are stopping for pictures a lot). There is some steep, rocky terrain, so wear appropriate shoes. For something a little easier, head north to the Oberg Mountain Loop. Download AllTrails+ for offline maps and all the available hikes in the area .

Palisade Head

You’ll see a small sign on the right hand side of the road right after a giant antique shop. Blink and you might miss it. Follow a windy, steep road for a few minutes and it will get you to the top of Palisade Head. It’s one of the best views on the North Shore. You are on the edge of a rocky cliff overlooking the lake and surrounding area. It’s a perfect place to stop and snack on some of the stuff you grabbed from Russ Kendall’s while watching rock climbers navigate the cliff face.

Be extremely careful and keep an eye on your group. There are no guardrails near the edge of the cliff, so the area can be dangerous for young children. There are walls around the parking lot, so just proceed beyond those with extreme caution.

Tettegouche State Park

The Baptism River has multiple waterfalls along the section closest to the lake and it’s a perfect destination for afternoon hikes. The Swinging Bridge near the Upper Falls allows you to cross to the other side of the river. The trails will give you tons of different vantage points of the waterfalls. If you park right along Highway 61, it’s about three miles out and back to the high falls and the bridge with plenty of spots to stop along the way. 

Temperance River State Park

Want more of the Superior Hiking Trail? Temperance River is flanked on both sides by portions of the trail. Find the Hidden Falls or see if you can spot any Rainbow Trout in the river. The narrow river gorge is unique among the rivers along Lake Superior. Explore the deep cutouts and potholes of rock that the water moves through. This is one of our favorite campgrounds because it’s situated close to many of our favorite spots in the park with many sites close to the lake.

Lutsen Mountains

Just a three mile detour from Highway 61, you’ll find yourself in the middle of the Lutsen Mountains recreation area. Hiking, mountain biking, alpine slides or just cruising the gondola – there are so many ways to enjoy the Lutsen area when it isn’t ski season. We took the gondola up to Moose Mountain and then hiked back along part of the Superior Hiking Trail last summer. It was a few hours and we only crossed paths with three other people. Grab a bite at Papa Charlie’s on the patio to enjoy views of the surrounding hills and lake in the distance.

North Shore Winery

On the same road as Lutsen Mountains, you’ll find North Shore Winery . It’s a beautiful building with lots of outdoor space for sipping wine and cider. Minnesota isn’t known for amazing wine, but this place is beautiful and has created some tasty wines. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a few afternoon rays of sunshine.

World’s Best Donuts and Java Moose Espresso Cafe at Artist’s Point

It’s hard to pick just one spot in Grand Marais. This has made the list of America’s Greatest Small Towns multiple times and its easy to see why. Park near the Ben Franklin General Store and find your way to these two spots. 

World’s Best Donuts is a family-owned shop that is only open in the summertime and you may find a line when you pull up. It’s worth it. They didn’t name it ironically, they really are amazing donuts. You will find yourself covered in powdered sugar in no time and ready to go back for more.

Java Moose Espresso Cafe is another local favorite. Their Instagram account shares the weather with a cup of coffee every day, so it’s a great resource if you’re planning your travels. You’ll be a stone’s throw from Artist’s Point where you can walk and enjoy views of the town and backdrop of hills all facing the beautiful lakefront.

Voyageur Brewing Company

One of the newer additions to the North Shore is this brewery in Grand Marais and I had to add another spot in town. The rooftop deck has a unique view. They have a great selection of beer and a great menu. Watch small town life happen around you and reminisce on your adventure so far. It’s common to hear people around you planning their canoe trips in the Boundary Waters or celebrating a recent trip. Get inspired.

Gunflint Trail

Take the historic Gunflint Trail, which starts right in Grand Marais and winds its way north to the Canadian border. It’s a worthwhile detour or alternate route from the North Shore Scenic Drive. The Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA) is accessible from this road, so you’ll find a collection of outfitters along the way. If you don’t want to paddle, make it a day trip with a stop for lunch at the Poplar Haus, a hike up to Honeymoon Bluff, and some wildlife spotting.

Naniboujou Lodge

The most colorful place on the lake is the dining room of the historic Naniboujou lodge. It got its start in the early 1900s as a hunting lodge for rich out-of-towners like Babe Ruth and Jack Dempsey. The Great Depression hit and it was turned into a hotel after being in foreclosure. It has had several owners over the years, but the beautiful dining room has been preserved. Their food is fantastic and it’s the perfect place to stop for a meal or even just afternoon tea.

Devil’s Kettle Waterfall

Either before or after your meal at Naniboujou, head across the street to Judge C.R. Magney State Park for a hike. Devil’s Kettle is one of the coolest waterfalls I have seen. It falls directly into a mysterious hole that has even scientists miffed. No one has been able to figure out where the water goes. There are a ton of stairs, but it is definitely worth it when you get there.

Grand Portage National Monument

Explore more of the history of the Grand Portage Ojibwe at this national monument along with the North American fur trade. Wander through the reconstructed buildings of the historic fort and visit the museum to see exhibits about gathering maple syrup, snowshoeing, and traditional instruments and tools of the local people. This site is managed by the National Park Service and there are ranger talks and a feature film that covers important information about Grand Portage. This is a great stop for visitors interested in the Native American tribes who lived here for generations and what brought European settlers to this region in the first place.

You can also catch a ferry here to Isle Royale National Park which is one of the least visited national parks in the US . It’s technically in Michigan, but closer to the Minnesota side of the lake.

Grand Portage State Park

This is the final stop before crossing into Canada. Right on the border is the Pigeon River with some gorgeous waterfalls. The hike to the waterfalls is pretty quick and the views are amazing. It’s definitely worth the drive to get up here. The High Falls lookout offers a great view of the river that creates this natural border. If you bring your passport, you can pop to the otherside of the river and step into Canada.

A Quick Video of Our Trip on Minnesota’s North Shore Scenic Drive

Here’s a collection of videos from our last trip in case you need a little more motivation to get yourself to this beautiful place. You’ll see glimpses of many of the spots on this list.

A Few Thoughts About Why This is A Meaningful Place

Growing up in the Twin Cities, my parents would pack up the Subaru station wagon with tents, sleeping bags, cooking gear and swimsuits. We would make the drive north and spend our family vacation camping near Flour Lake outside of Grand Marais. As an adult, I love returning to that same campground and taking the trails I took as a kid. I can still point out the peninsula we built our fort on and the hiking trails that were my favorite as a kid.

We most recently celebrated our 10 year wedding anniversary with a trip up the shore, the same way we went for our honeymoon. We spent a week in the quiet Northwoods and it was perfect. I’ll never forget sitting next to Flour Lake in the BWCA and making the decision that we were going to quit our jobs to travel around the world. 

Time to Head North! 

Let us know what your favorite spots are if you’ve made this drive before. If you’ve never done it, load up your playlist with Bob Dylan and head to the north shore for some of the best that Minnesota has to offer.

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Because life's too short to stay home …, north shore by the mile, planning a trip to this beloved part of minnesota start at 0.0..

© Beth Gauper

If you don't know much about Minnesota's North Shore, trip-planning can be confusing.

For one thing, it's really the west shore of Lake Superior. People in Ontario don't get confused because they live on the real north shore. Chicagoans do get confused because they call their northern suburbs the North Shore.

This pointy corner of Minnesota also is called the Arrowhead Region. Some people call its roads by their names — Sawbill and Caribou — and some by their numbers — County Road 2 and County Road 4.

Some people heading north along the shore say they're heading east, and they're right.

Even if you know exactly where you are, it's still hard to plan a trip to the North Shore: There's so much to see and do, and everything passes in a flash.

When I head up the shore, I take a blue fold-out brochure called North Shore Drive of Lake Superior, which lists the main attractions by mile marker, from 0.0 (Duluth's Canal Park) to 151.0 (the Canadian border).

Want to make sure you don't zoom by Palisade Head? It's at Mile Marker 56, two miles past Silver Bay.

Getting Temperance and Tettegouche state parks mixed up? Tettegouche is 2½ miles beyond Palisade Head, and Temperance is 22 miles further, just past Schroeder.

Published since 1937, my favorite blue brochure has been discontinued, so I guard my remaining copies jealously.

This scenic highway, also a national scenic byway , is hallowed ground to Minnesotans and many people in surrounding states. If you're planning a trip but are overwhelmed by the choices, here are the places you may want to see — along with mile markers.

© America's Byways

In summer and fall, make sure you have a place to stay . For more on hiking, skiing, dining, lodging and sightseeing, see our large North Shore section .

The beginning

0.0 Canal Park in Duluth . Tourists now flock to the part of town once filled with seedy bars and old warehouses. They can't resist watching giant ore boats head into the harbor under the Aerial Lift Bridge, or strolling along the Lakewalk as sea gulls screech for handouts.

There's shopping at DeWitt-Seitz Marketplace, cool exhibits in the Marine Museum, boat excursions to take from the harbor and train rides from the nearby Depot. Kids love it all, especially jumping on the rocks.

5.1 Lester River. The beautiful park along this river once was a weekend destination for city folk. The nearly 1-mile Lester Park Trail follows the river, off Superior Street and 61st Avenue East. In summer, you'll find some of Duluth's great swimming holes . In winter, the park has superbly groomed ski trails.

5.2 Scenic 61 . Just beyond Duluth's Kitchi-Gammi Park, also called Brighton Beach, turn right and take the scenic route to Two Harbors. In June, it's the route for Grandma's Marathon.

13.1 New Scenic Café . This sunny little spot is a good place to stop for coffee and fruit pie (among the region's best) or a meal.

15.0 Stony Point. Watch for the turnoff to a one-mile drive that hugs a point. It's known for giant waves and the surfers who congregate to catch them.

20.0 Knife River. You can buy smoked fish in this little fishing village, and there's also a darling candy store, plus a campground and marina.

24.0 Two Harbors . Don't whiz past — turn right and go down to Lighthouse Point to see the North Shore's only real lighthouse, now an inn, and walk the enchanting Sonju Trail. If you're lucky, you'll see an ore boat being loaded.

In the downtown area, stop in the convivial taproom of Castle Danger Brewing for a cold one.

The near shore

36.0 Rustic Inn Cafe . For the feel of the old North Shore, stop for a bite in this 1920s log-cabin cafe, most famous for its pies.

39.5 Gooseberry Falls State Park . It doesn't cost anything to park here and see the falls, which makes this the most-visited state park except for Fort Snelling in the Twin Cities.

Kids love clambering around on the rocks; bring water shoes. If it's a warm day, follow the river down to its mouth and you'll find a good spot to swim in Lake Superior . The falls also are fun to visit in winter , when they're frozen.

From here, you can ride the paved Gitchi-Gami State Trail to Split Rock Lighthouse and Beaver Bay.

43.5 Split Rock River. From the parking area, there's a great five-mile hike up the west side of the river and around, a rare loop on the Superior Hiking Trail .

46.0 Split Rock Lighthouse State Park and Historic Site . The picturesque yellow lighthouse is a National Historic Landmark, one of only two Great Lakes lighthouses to get the designation.

Built after the Mataafa Blow of 1905 damaged 29 ships on Lake Superior — sinking the Madeira on Gold Rock, just across the cove — it became a tourist favorite after the highway was paved in 1924.

The state park has hiking trails, a beach and the best views of the lighthouse. Sites at the campground, tent and hike-in only, are the hardest to get in the state.

50.0 Beaver Bay. This busy little town is the home of the Agate Shop , a good place to see spectacular examples of the state gemstone, and many places to eat.

51.0 Beaver River. The beach at the mouth of this river is one of the best places to look for agates .

54.0 Silver Bay. On the south end of Black Beach Park, there's a scenic black-sand beach that's nice for picnics. On the other side of the highway, North Shore Adventure Park is a high-ropes course with ziplines.

In the hills above town, the 11-mile stretch of the Superior Hiking Trail from Silver Bay to Minnesota 1 is one of the most scenic (and most challenging), passing Bean and Bear lakes in Tettegouche State Park, Round Mountain, Mount Trudee and High Falls on the Baptism River.

You can also see Bean and Bear lakes on a great day hike that starts from the Silver Bay information center, the 7.6-mile Twin Lakes Trail loop.

56.0 Palisade Head. It's a steep drive up to this clifftop with a spectacular view down the cliff-lined shore to Shovel Point. Bring a picnic — and watch your kids.

58.5 Tettegouche State Park . Park for free in the lot and walk the half-mile trail to Shovel Point, where basalt headlands form a coastline that looks more like northern California than Minnesota. The view, which includes Palisade Head to the south, is incomparable.

60.2 Minnesota 1. This is how you get to Illgen Falls and Illgen Falls Cabin in the upper part of Tettegouche State Park. Go a little farther and you'll reach the town of Finland, Wolf Ridge Environmental Center and Crosby-Manitou State Park (on County Road 7).

Keep going through Superior National Forest and you'll reach Ely.

71.3 Caribou River. A 1½-mile trail leads to Caribou Falls. In winter, this is a good snowshoeing route.

73.0 Sugarloaf Cove . This nature preserve is one of the secret spots on the North Shore, where you still can see all the stones and cool stuff that used to be on all North Shore beaches before people carted them away for landscaping.

A one-mile interpretive trail winds through a red-pine plantation and alder thicket to a U-shaped cobblestone cove and crosses an old tombolo on a boardwalk. In the log nature center, interpretive staff give Saturday programs.

79.0 Cross River. There's a lovely waterfall here, best seen from Lamb's Resort and Campground on the south side of the river. There's also a bakery and the Cross River Heritage Center.

On the north side of the river, a road leads to Father Baraga's Cross .

80.4 Temperance River State Park . Trails at this park, named because the river has no bar at its mouth, follow the tortuous course of the Temperance River, seething and twisting like a flume ride from hell. Pebbles in the swirling water have scraped potholes in the riverbed and in the sides of the gorge.

A lot of people swim here, but you shouldn't — some have drowned.

Park trails lead into the Superior Hiking Trail. It's a three-mile hike to Carlton Peak, whose 924-foot summit commands a spectacular view up and down the shore.

Skiing and hiking central

82.4 Tofte U.S. Forest Service ranger station . Pick up Boundary Waters permits and information on local hikes.

83.0 Tofte. This formerly quiet fishing village is the home of the large Bluefin Bay Resort and its Coho Cafe , a good place to stop for a sandwich, pizza or dessert.

83.4 Sawbill Trail/County Road 2. This 23-mile trail, roughly following the Temperance River, ends in Sawbill Lake, an entry point to a quiet part of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

Three miles up the trail, you'll reach the Britton Peak trailhead of the Superior Hiking Trail. From here, it's a three-mile round-trip to Carlton Peak.

Britton Peak also is the main trailhead for the Sugarbush ski-trail system, one of the best places to cross-country ski in winter. The Moose Fence is farther up the road on the right.

87.0 Onion River Road/Forest Road 336. This is how you get to the trailhead for the very popular two-mile Oberg Mountain hiking loop, where frequent overlooks give hikers views of the lake and inland maple forest.

It's two miles uphill to the parking area. From the other side of the parking area, the Superior Hiking Trail leads to Leveaux Mountain. It's a one-mile hike to a spur trail that goes to the summit.

The parking area also is a trailhead for the Sugarbush ski trails in winter.

90.1 Lutsen Resort and Lutsen Mountains . Turn toward the lake to get to this historic resort at the mouth of the Poplar River.

It's a great place to stay, but you also can enjoy the view from the window-lined restaurant, have a drink in front of the wood-burning fire or wander on the beach.

Turn inland and you're on the ski hill. In summer, take a few rides down the Alpine Slide or hike east on the Superior Hiking Trail to Lake Agnes.

92.0 Caribou Trail/County Road 4. This is one way to get to the trailhead for Eagle Mountain , the highest point in Minnesota. Drive to Forest Road 153, then  four miles east to the trailhead.

99.8 Cascade River State Park . The trails that hug both sides of the river are gorgeous, especially in spring, when they're lined by wildflowers.

Don't miss the Upper Cascade, where the trail is lined with old cedars and feathery ferns and hikers can sit on the shore watching the river tumble over a series of small falls.

It's a challenging but very beautiful eight-mile round-trip up the river to the County Road 45 bridge and back down the other side.

104.0 Good Harbor Bay/Cutface Creek wayside. This is a good place to look for Thomsonite, a semiprecious gemstone with bands of pink and green that formed out of a single lava flow. It's only found here, along a six-mile stretch of shoreline.

Heading into town

110.0 Grand Marais . This harbor village has everything a tourist could want: shopping, restaurants, hotels, festivals, nightlife.

Be sure to walk out to the harbor light on the breakwall and to Artists' Point, where narrow trails lead through cedars and spruce. Children love playing in the rocks between the point and the old Coast Guard station.

110.5 Start of the Gunflint Trail . This 57-mile road, also a national scenic byway, is lined by resorts, some of them on lakes that lead into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

The road heads north, then west, and dead-ends near the Canadian border. It doesn't connect to Ely except by obscure gravel forest roads.

114.0 Devil Track River. On the rim of this deep, narrow canyon is a 2.4-mile stretch of the Superior Hiking Trail, with views of the red cliffs and waterfalls below. The river itself is a favorite snowshoeing destination in winter.

118.7 Kadunce Creek/River. A trail follows the rust-tinted waters of the Kadunce through its narrow gorge. It's a spectacular and intimate little hike, 1½ miles round-trip, and the cobblestone beach opposite the wayside is one of the shore's prettiest.

123.8 Judge C.R. Magney State Park . Trails in this park, named after the populist who proclaimed, "Our state parks are everyman's country estate," follow the Brule River past three waterfalls: the Lower, the Upper and Devil's Kettle.

At the Devil's Kettle, the river splits, half cascading 50 feet into a pool and the other disappearing into a pothole; no one know where it ends up. It's 2½ miles round-trip.

124.0 Naniboujou Lodge . This striking lodge was built in the heyday of the Jazz Age, just before the stock-market crash. Today, it's a quiet retreat, one of the best places to stay on the North Shore .

The restaurant in the Great Hall, painted with vivid Cree-style designs, is open to the public. It's especially popular for Sunday brunch.

145.0 Grand Portage National Monument . This re-created North West Company post at the end of an 8½-mile big detour — the grand portage — around rapids on the Pigeon River once was the center of the fur-trade universe.

Costumed interpreters show visitors around. On a typical day, they can watch historic weapons being fired, hear a bagpiper, try on the clothing of the fur trade, play voyageur games and see a canoe being built.

Admission is free. Down the road, the Heritage Center highlights Ojibwe culture and contributions to the fur trade.

145.0 Boat service to Isle Royale . From the Grand Portage marina, ferries take tourists to Isle Royale National Park . It's a long way to travel for a day trip — three hours each way to Windigo — but same-day round-trip fares are available.

150.8 Grand Portage State Park . The Pigeon River, which marks the international border, is the largest on the North Shore and was the bane of voyageurs.

Its lower 20 miles, a series of cataracts and chasms, is unnavigable, so the paddlers had to make an 8½-mile uphill portage before they could travel into the interior.

Today, visitors can follow a half-mile, handicapped-accessible trail to the state's tallest waterfall, gorgeous High Falls, cascading 120 feet over a sheer basalt wall. The Middle Falls Trail goes farther, over ridge tops, about three miles.

The border and beyond

151.0 Canadian border. This is the end of Minnesota and the beginning of Ontario, which is on Eastern Standard Time, an hour later. If you cross into Canada , make sure you have a passport (and no drugs, guns, Mace or other weapons).

From the Ontario visitors center, you can hike a trail to the top of High Falls, for a spectacular view up and down the Pigeon River.

190.0 Thunder Bay . This sprawling port town isn't pretty (except around the marina in Port Arthur), but there is a lot to do, and it has great places to eat.

Want to keep going? The scenery doesn't end here.

For more, see Lake Superior's greatest hits and Planning a Circle Tour .

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• North Shore, Minnesota

Top Things to Do Along Minnesota's North Shore

Sprawling parks and maritime marvels line the Lake Superior shore between Duluth and Grand Portage. The best way to see it all? The 154-mile-long North Shore Scenic Byway.

Midwest Living's experienced editors create best-in-class travel, lifestyle, food, home and garden content you won't find anywhere else. We're loudly, proudly Midwestern, and we're passionate about helping our audience explore and create through award-winning storytelling.

For those who love the lake (Superior) life, the place where Interstate-35 ends is the spot where all the fun begins. From the port city of Duluth all the way up the coast to Canada, you'll find stellar state parks, both modern and throwback resorts, historic lighthouses, water activities and spots to celebrate the region's arts, dining and culture scenes. Check out our guide for what to do, where to eat and where to stay in Duluth, Grand Marais and all along the North Shore.

Things to Do

Aerial lift bridge.

Duluth's 172-foot-tall bridge rises more than 20 times each day for sailboats and skyscraper-length ships traveling between Lake Superior and Duluth Harbor.

Artists Point

A ½-mile hike from the parking lot at Grand Marais Harbor leads over lava rock and through forest to the scene at the end—a rocky shore and lighthouse, popular with photographers.

Boundary Country Trekking

Along with other adventure vacations, this small outfitter plans lodge-to-lodge routes on the Superior Hiking Trail, arranging accommodations, meals and shuttle service.

Near the foot of the Aerial Lift Bridge, Duluth's revived warehouse distric t contains shops, restaurants and attractions, such as the Lake Superior Maritime Visitors Center and the Great Lakes Aquarium.

Cascade River State Park

Hiking or cross-country skiing trips lead past waterfalls crashing over black volcanic rock in a gorge at Cascade River State Park 10 miles southwest of Grand Marais.

Tour the 39 rooms and 7 acres of gardens of this 1908 mansion , built by a Duluth iron-mining baron.

Gooseberry Falls State Park

North of Two Harbors, pull off State-61 for a ¼-mile walk to the first overlook of a series of copper-color falls at beautiful Gooseberry Falls. Displays at the visitors center explain the geology and history of the area.

Grand Portage National Monument

At Grand Portage National Monument , 35 miles northeast of Grand Marais and close to the Canadian border, learn about the partnership of the Grand Portage Ojibwe and the North West Company during the North American fur trade. Films, a museum and living-history interpreters enhance your visit.

Grand Portage State Park

A ½-mile trail and boardwalk at Grand Portage lead to Minnesota's highest waterfall, the 120-foot-tall High Falls of the Pigeon River on the U.S.-Canada border.

Great Lakes Aquarium

Check out the freshwater critters (otters and gigantic sturgeon) at this Duluth aquarium , where exhibits include H2O: Watersheds at Work, with hands-on activities to splash, play and learn about water.

Gunflint Trail Scenic Byway

This two-lane road winds 57 miles inland from Grand Marais to hiking trails, fishing spots and wildlife viewing areas. Make reservations for dinner at Loon Lake Lodge , which serves a different entree each night. Gunflint Lodge offers horseback riding, fishing, ziplining and dining.

Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve

More than a dozen species of raptors stop at Hawk Ridge during their fall migration. Bring binoculars to see them from the trails off Duluth's East Skyline Parkway.

Jay Cooke State Park

Hikers get a view of the St. Louis River from the swinging bridge in this trail-loaded park 20 miles southwest of Duluth.

Lutsen Mountains

A gondola at Lutsen takes you to great views of Lake Superior; an alpine slide speeds you down Eagle Mountain. Eagle Ridge Resort puts you in the middle of the action.

North House Folk School

In Grand Marais, year-round lessons (some available virtually) keep alive traditional crafts like basket weaving and canoe building.

North Shore Scenic Railroad

Interesting narrated train rides chug along Lake Superior's rugged shore.

Park Point Beach

Swim in the clear waters of Lake Superior or just lie on the long, sandy beach and watch freighters go by in the distance. The park also includes sand volleyball courts and grills.

Spirit Mountain

Zoom down the Timber Twister—an alpine slide and roller coaster combo—or take the chairlift to mountain bike runs at the Duluth area resort .

Split Rock Lighthouse

Costumed interpreters at Split Rock talk about the daily life of a lightkeeper. Stairs at the 1910 lighthouse lead to lake views.

SS William A. Irvin

Climb aboard Duluth's 1937 iron ore workhorse to learn about Great Lakes freighters.

Superior Hiking Trail

This trail stretches more than 300 miles along the ridge above Lake Superior.

Tettegouche State Park

Sixty miles northeast of Duluth, lava flows, like Palisade Head, rise 300 feet above Lake Superior, while a 60-foot waterfall on the Baptism River rewards hikers at Tettegouche .

Two Harbors Light Station Museum

Tour the oldest continuously operating light station —since 1892—in the state.

Where to Eat

Angry trout cafe.

This sunny favorite on the harbor in Grand Marais is local to the core: Lake Superior fish and artisan decor in an old fish house.

Betty's Pies

If five-layer chocolate pie or apple-strawberry crunch pie sound good, you've found your happy place at Betty's Pies in Two Harbors.

Coho Cafe and Bakery

Breakfasts like sourdough French toast and wild rice sausage add big flavor at a small lakeside cafe in Tofte.

Duluth Grill

Local, organic, gluten-free, vegetarian? Yep, those buzzwords rule at Duluth Grill . Even the ketchup and coffee mugs are locally made.

Grandma's Saloon and Grill

At the original location in Duluth's Canal Park , diners sit practically at the foot of the Aerial Lift Bridge. Choose from a hearty array of salads, sandwiches and entrees.

Gun Flint Tavern

A diverse menu near Grand Marais showcases microbrews, organic ingredients and a mix of ethnic dishes. Live music entertains many nights of the week.

Hungry Hippie Tacos

Large fry bread tacos drizzled with house chipotle sour cream make for deliciously filling meals at Hungry Hippie in Grand Marais.

New Scenic Cafe

Fourteen miles northeast of Duluth, nab deli items, artisan baked goods and more at this popular stop.

Northern Waters Smokehaus

Duluth deli owner Eric Goerdt marries classic with modern at Northern Waters , piling smoked salmon on a salad with Marcona almonds and wasabi mayonnaise.

PortLand Malt Shoppe

Slurp salted caramel malts from PortLand Malt Shoppe while admiring Lake Superior from the Duluth Lakewalk.

Rustic Inn Cafe

Tasty fruit pies and hot, made-to-order sandwiches satisfy at a cozy cafe 10 miles northeast of Two Harbors.

Va Bene Caffe

The scent of garlic pulls diners into this cafe perched above the Lakewalk in Duluth. After homemade pasta, savor an espresso and gelato.

Valentini's Vicino Lago

Years of experience feed the Italian menu at the family-owned Duluth eatery .

Vikre Distillery

Lake Superior water goes into craft products like aquavit, a spiced Scandinavian liquor, at Vikre .

Voyageur Brewing Company

Cheese and ale fondue pairs well with Devil's Kettle, a pale ale with pine notes. Relax on a Voyageur's rooftop patio with views of the Grand Marais harbor.

Where to Stay

Bluefin bay resorts.

Three resorts in the Tofte area offer a variety of accommodations, restaurants and activities such as guided hikes, canoeing and biking.

Breezy Point Cabins on Lake Superior

Twelve recently renovated cabins just south of Two Harbors perch in a prime location on rocks at the lake's edges. They're part of Odyssey Resorts, which operates 9 properties in Minnesota, most on the North Shore.

Caribou Highlands Lodge

In Lutsen's Sawtooth Mountains, the Odyssey ski resort is an all-season destination.

East Bay Suites

Stay in lakeside condos with balconies and fireplaces at the edge of Lake Superior in the heart of Grand Marais.

Fitger's Inn

Top-notch staff work at this stylish inn in walking distance of Duluth's Canal Park.

Grand Superior Lodge

North of Two Harbors, the resort offers amenities like kayak tours. Choose from rooms, cabins or lakefront homes.

Gunflint Lodge

All-inclusive packages draw guests to a lakefront resort at the edge of the Boundary Waters, 43 miles northwest of Grand Marais.

Larsmont Cottages on Lake Superior

Twenty miles north of Duluth, luxurious rentals line Lake Superior. Swim in the indoor pool and unwind in the wood-fired Finnish sauna.

Poplar Haus

Five Northwoods-theme cabins sit along the historic Gunflint Trail 30 miles northwest of Grand Marais. The on-site restaurant serves creatively prepared local fish and more.

South Pier Inn on the Canal

Second-floor rooms with private balconies facing the canal give the best view of ships passing under Duluth's Aerial Lift Bridge.

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Minnesota North Shore Scenic Drive Must-See (Amazing!) Stops

This post may contain affiliate links, view our disclosure policy .

The Minnesota North Shore Scenic Drive is a rite of passage when it comes to experiencing rugged “Up North” beauty!

The breathtaking scenery and unspoiled fresh air here are something that simply cannot be experienced elsewhere.

Featuring a plethora of rushing waterfalls, scenic hiking trails, state parks, and epic views of Lake Superior, the pristine beauty of the Minnesota North Shore leaves a lasting impression on its many visitors.

This article provides you with a mile-by-mile guide of the must-see stops on Minnesota’s North Shore Scenic Drive to help guide your epic outdoor adventure.

Here’s our list of the best stops along the Minnesota North Shore!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means that we may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link.  

Table of Contents

Minnesota North Shore

What is the Minnesota North Shore?

Minnesota’s North Shore refers to the shoreline of Lake Superior that runs from Duluth, Minnesota to Ontario, Canada.

The shore is characterized by cobblestone beaches, rocky cliffs and ridges, scenic rivers, waterfalls, and hillside forests.

People experience Minnesota’s North Shore by means of driving the 145-mile North Shore Scenic Drive.

This All-American Roadway follows Highway 61 and winds its way through small towns, historic sites, and untouched wilderness.

The Minnesota North Shore can be experienced via several different itineraries and can include combinations of driving, biking, and hiking – making it a highlight of any Minnesota bucket list !

Our Minnesota North Shore must-see stops are listed in order from the gateway city of Duluth, MN to our endpoint, Grand Marais, MN.

This is a 110-mile stretch of the North Shore Scenic Drive located entirely along Hwy 61.

This entire itinerary and listed stops are doable in 1-day.

1. Duluth’s Lake Superior Harbor

Duluth, Minnesota

As the gateway to Minnesota’s North Shore Scenic Drive, the lakeside city of Duluth, MN is a family vacation destination in itself.

With dozens of fun and free things to do in Duluth , our 3-day Duluth itinerary includes all of the top attractions.

If only passing through, however, be sure to visit Duluth’s Lake Superior harbor, also known as Canal Park.

Here you will experience the world-famous Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge, North Pier Lighthouse, and the free Duluth Maritime Museum.

Time your visit just right by viewing the harbor’s shipping schedule to catch a 1,000+ feet-long bulk cargo ship exiting Lake Superior and heading into the Port of Duluth/Superior.

2. Russ Kendall’s Fish Market

Knife River, Minnesota

Russ Kendall’s is by no means a fancy place, but it is the best around when it comes to perfectly smoked fish on Minnesota’s North Shore.

When wanting to try the best local cuisine, people line up to select purchases from the wide variety of smoked fish available in a grab-n-go style.

Favorites include sugar-cured silver smoked salmon, smoked trout, and whitefish.

With a smell so good, you’ll be eating it in the car as you pull away!

3. Great! Lakes Candy Kitchen

You can’t miss the colorful Great! Lakes Candy Kitchen shop that sits along scenic Highway 61.

Complete with picnic tables, an interactive “Bear Trail” for kids, and a quick-service window, the Candy Kitchen gets rave reviews for its handmade chocolates and other candies.

The line can get long here as tourists line up to purchase favorites including Bear Tracks, Turtles, Hot Air, caramels, frozen bananas, and ice cream treats!

4. Castle Danger Brewery

Two Harbors, Minnesota

Castle Danger Brewery is a delicious addition to the Minnesota North Shore!

Similar to Duluth’s best breweries , they’re nationally known for their hand-crafted brews, especially the popular Castle Cream Ale.

This large, beautiful brewery complete with a pet-friendly outdoor patio does not serve food, however.

Instead, they offer chips, salsa, and pretzels for purchase, as well as encourage patrons to bring in their own food or takeout from local restaurants.

The atmosphere here is fun and laid back! They offer 30-minute brewery tours every Friday and Saturday at 5:00 PM.

5. Betty’s Pies

Serving up deliciousness since 1957, Betty’s Pies is one of the most popular and talked-about stops on Minnesota’s North Shore!

Not only does Betty’s serve delicious homemade pie (by the slice, or whole), but they serve awesome breakfast, lunch, and dinner selections as well.

With a staff that is an epitome of Minnesota-nice, its bright white and blue diner decor, and a rotating pie menu makes Betty’s Pies a place that people come back to year after year.

Additional planning tip: Located 8 miles further down the highway, The Rustic Inn Cafe is another popular North Shore restaurant.

Known for its wild rice meatloaf, made-from-scratch onion rings, and homemade pie, your tummy, and your heart will both be full after dining here.

6. Gooseberry Falls

When traveling the Minnesota North Shore from Duluth to Grand Marais, Gooseberry Falls is the first nature-filled stop – and it’s a good one!

The Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls are located only a short walk (or wheelchair-accessible route) from the visitor parking and nature center making this a perfect spot if you’re not looking for a long hike.

Kids and adults alike can get up close and personal with the waterfalls as this park is highly interactive.

The waterfalls all have awesome climbing rocks and flow into shallow ponds that allow you to feel (or play in!) the rushing water.

Additional planning tip: Stay tuned until the end of this article where I list necessary tips for visiting the North Shore sites and waterfalls.

7. Splitrock Lighthouse

Splitrock Lighthouse is a must-see North Shore attraction and provides one of the most iconic photo-ops on the entire North Shore Scenic Drive.

The historic site and adjacent state park offer spectacular views of the lighthouse and of Lake Superior.

The views of Lake Superior can be experienced from both the cliff top and from trails along the shoreline.

Do note that Splitrock Lighthouse has hours and admission prices that vary from month to month and it’s definitely worth looking into them before your visit.

Though the grounds are free to visit in the winter, you need to purchase a Grounds Pass in order to enter the historic grounds during the spring, summer, and fall.

General admission (that includes access to the lighthouse) and a private Keeper’s Tour are also available for an additional fee.

8. Black Beach

Silver Bay, Minnesota

The black sand beach in Silver Bay, MN is the most unique place along Minnesota’s North Shore.

The sand is interestingly black here because of iron ore dumping into Lake Superior, which then created a man-made peninsula and beach.

Black Beach is a free public swimming beach complete with restrooms, picnic tables, fire pits, and plenty of room to lounge.

It is located on a gravel road and has limited parking.

The beach was a bit littered when we visited but it was still worth the stop!

9. Palisade Head

Palisade Head is a gigantic rock cliff that sits on the edge of Lake Superior.

It is my favorite spot on the Minnesota North Shore!

You start by driving up a long, narrow, and hilly roadway, to get to the lookout area.

Once there, you’re treated to some of the most breathtaking (and terrifying!) views of Lake Superior.

The drop-off is dangerous, so be sure to use caution when visiting here.

10. Tettegouche State Park

Silver Bay, MN

Perhaps the most popular hiking spot on Minnesota’s North Shore, Tettegouche State Park, is another North Shore must-see stop!

This park requires some planning to visit if you want to see the entire park or hike the 3-mile moderately difficult High Falls Trail to experience High Falls – which happens to be the highest waterfall entirely in the state of Minnesota.

Due to time constraints, we chose to walk just a short distance from the visitor center to a cobblestone beach where the Baptism River meets Lake Superior.

Here, we laid down beach towels and had a picnic while the kids enjoyed rock-skipping.

11. Cross River Falls | Temperance River State Park

Schroeder, Minnesota

Cross River Falls and the Temperance River lookout are two epic waterfalls that can be enjoyed in just 5 – 10 minutes each.

Both of these lookout areas are located directly adjacent to Highway 61 and do not require a hike to get to them.

In fact, Cross River Falls can be viewed as you’re driving by.

Be sure to stop at them both, however, and look for the sign that explains why the rushing waters look like a root beer float!

12. Lutsen Mountains

Lutsen, Minnesota

Lutsen, Minnesota is located within the Superior National Forest and is home to one of Minnesota’s best wineries , as well as the locally famous, Lutsen Mountains.

Lutsen Mountains is an amazing ski resort-turned-adventure park in the summer months, making it the epicenter of fun on the MN North Shore.

Along with offering the best skiing in Minnesota during the winter months, Lutsen Mountains is home to hiking trails, alpine slides, Summit Gondola rides, and voyageur canoe tours during the warmer months.

With onsite lodging available, Lutsen Mountains offers summer activity packages to make a visit here a vacation in itself.

Additional planning tip: Our kids loved riding up the chair lift to the top of the mountain, then riding the alpine slide down. Expect that your kids will want to go down more than once and bundle your tickets for cheaper prices.

13. Cascade River State Park

Though Cascade River State Park is an entire experience, we chose to view the popular waterfalls found here from the park’s short roadside lookout trail.

Watch for a road sign indicating “Cascade River” and there will be a few parking spots on each side of the highway.

Park your vehicle for free, follow the trail map, and take a short walk to this magnificent 6-tiered waterfall!

14. World’s Best Donuts

Grand Marais, Minnesota

There are so many amazing things to do in Grand Marais , and a visit to World’s Best Donuts is definitely one of them!

World’s Best Donuts in Grand Marais, MN has been in business for over 51 years (and 5 generations of bakers).

This longevity, along with its amazingly fresh homemade donuts make World’s Best Donuts a staple destination on Minnesota’s North Shore.

With very limited hours of operation, plan ahead if you want to indulge in their famous Chocolate Knots, Bavarian Cream-Filled Long Johns, or Raspberry Jelly-Filled Bismarcks.

15. Artist Point

No visit to North Shore, MN would be complete without a stop at Artist Point in Grand Marais.

The colored rocks and unique natural beauty found here are so picturesque and perfectly compliment the harbor’s quaintness.

Spend time exploring the lakeside via the gigantic boulders as well as by walking the 4-foot wide concrete breakwater wall out to the Grand Marais lighthouse.

16. Voyageur Brewing Company

End your tour of the Minnesota North Shore from Duluth to Grand Marais with a visit to Voyageur Brewing Company.

Its rustic decor and pet-friendly outdoor patio, along with a full menu of brews and food, make this the perfect way to end an amazing day.

Head up to the rooftop bar to enjoy a Palisade Porter or Lost Compass Imperial Stout while enjoying panoramic views of Lake Superior.

Brewery tours are offered on special Saturdays throughout the year at 10:30 AM.

Additional planning tip: Also located in Grand Marais is Angry Trout Cafe . This popular North Shore restaurant is a local favorite with incredibly fresh food and an unbeatable view.

Minnesota North Shore: If you have more time!

If you have more time, continue to follow Highway 61 past Grand Marais for more outdoor adventure!

Though we didn’t get a chance to experience them ourselves, the following stops can be added to your North Shore road trip:

• The Gunflint Trail .
• Judge C.R. Magney State Park, home of the famous Devil’s Kettle Falls . Also, have lunch or dinner at the Naniboujou Lodge located here.
• Wayswaugoing Bay Overlook, a 400-foot tall overlook in Grand Portage, MN.
• Grand Portage State Park , home of the majestic Pigeon Falls.
• The International Canadian border ( the border between Canada and the United States ).

Tips for Visiting the Minnesota North Shore

• Bring your camera – a waterproof one if possible!
• Weather can be unpredictable on the North Shore, with cooler temperatures even in summer. Prepare for your visit by dressing in layers.
• Travel slowly. Many of the best stops on the North Shore Scenic Drive are only marked by small road signs that are easily missed if you are driving too fast or not paying attention.
• All of the North Shore activities and attractions can be experienced for as little or as long as you like. Adjust the time you spend at each destination according to how many days you’re spending in the area. (For the purposes of this article, we saw all of these sights in one day without feeling too rushed.)
• Be sure to wear tennis shoes or hiking shoes and avoid sandals and flip-flops. Many trails have uneven terrain and the rocks around waterfall areas are slippery when wet.
• Bring swimsuits and towels as there are several unexpected opportunities to swim and get wet. Also, consider bringing water shoes if your kids are particularly interested in getting into the rivers and streams.
• Hiking maps can be found at the trailheads with paper copies located in the visitor centers.
• Have patience when visiting the Minnesota North Shore. Summer traffic and crowds can be overwhelming, but the slower pace allows you to experience it to the fullest!

Have you traveled the Minnesota North Shore before? If so, what was your favorite thing to see or do? Jen

If you liked reading about our favorite stops on Minnesota’s North Shore Scenic Drive , check out our Related Articles:

Plan a visit to Duluth, Minnesota:

• 3-Day Duluth Family Vacation Itinerary + Tips for Your Visit
• 27 Free Things to do in Duluth, MN This Summer
• Glensheen Mansion Tours: A Duluth Legacy!
• 7 Reasons to Visit Duluth’s Great Lakes Aquarium
• 9 Best Restaurants in Canal Park that Everyone Will Love!

* Before leaving, be sure to check our  Travel Resources Page  to find exclusive travel discounts and to book hotels, rental cars, and guided tours.*

Jen Brommer is a family travel expert. She has been featured as an authority on several notable travel websites and is a member of the Family Travel Association (FTA), Midwest Travel Network, and TravMedia global media network.

A prominent content creator and influencer on Instagram, Jen has over 150K unique monthly blog readers from countries all over the world. She has spent the last 16 years planning fun, and hassle-free family vacations for her family of 5.

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20 Comments

We have visited the North Shore twice to tent camp during the fall. We love the hike to High Falls at Grand Portage, Black Beach, Split-Rock Lighthouse, Devil’s Kettle, and just about every stop in between. We were skeptical about the donuts at the World’s Best Donuts, but they seriously have the BEST cake donuts we have ever eaten. Betty’s Pies is amazing! If you are in Grand Marais, do yourself a favor and grab some tacos at the Hungry Hippie Tacos – so good! We are returning this summer and bringing our grandson for his first trip to the North Shore!

These are all such great ideas – so happy to hear about your experiences on the North Shore! I’m totally going to try Hungry Hippie Tacos the next time we’re there! Happy travels…

Lots of information and awesome pictures. My wife and I are planning a trip there this September. Are there campgrounds along the North Shore Drive?

Yay! September is a beautiful time to explore the North Shore! And, yes, there are several campgrounds along the North Shore Drive. You can check out the North Shore Visitor.com website to find an entire list. Have a great trip!

This looks so awesome. When is the best time to visit ?

Definitely in the summer or fall. Enjoy!!

Is it a good trip for the fall, like September?

Yes! The North Shore is a beautiful place to visit in September with the crisp autumn air! It will be more chilly that visiting in summer, so pack sweatshirts and a light jacket.

Thanks for sharing all of this wonderful information! You’ve painted a very clear picture of a beautiful place! We are heading up there from Atlanta in a couple of weeks.

Great! Thanks so much! I hope that you have a wonderful time!!

The drive is one of our favorites anywhere. Lake Superior along with the rocky shoreline and trees is fabulous.

Mine too! Thanks for reading!! Here’s to happy travels…

The North Shore is one of my most favorite places in the world! Great recommendations on the must-stop locations.

Thank you! I would like to head up there in the fall one year – I’m sure that the fall foliage is amazing there!

I honestly have never thought about visiting Minnesota, but after reading this article I think I’ll put it in my bucket list. Thanks for all this useful information.

Yay! I’m glad that I can provide a little ‘travel inspiration’!! Happy travels!

I’m blown away by all the attractions in this region. That lighthouse on a cliff?! And the pies?! Awesome!

Thanks! It truly is a beautiful place!!!

Black sand beaches and waterfalls remind me of Hawaii and the cliffs make me thing of what I envision Ireland would look like! Wow what a diverse area, and the worlds best donuts, how can you go wrong? 🙂 I still can’t get over the idea of lakes that look like oceans. Ive been to Chicago, so seen that one (Michigan?) coming from the east coast, its so wild to see

Thanks for reading! The steep cliffs along the drive reminded me of the Pacific Coast Highway. I had to pinch myself to remind me that I was just in Minnesota 🙂

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The BEST things to do on Minnesota’s North Shore (Duluth to Grand Portage road trip)

Last updated on April 23rd, 2023

Planning to visit Minnesota’s North Shore? We’re sharing everything you need to know before you go, plus all of the best stops from Duluth to Grand Portage! One of the BEST surprises during our travels in 2021 was Minnesota’s North Shore. We had heard incredible things about it beforehand from locals, but in our experience, this isn’t a region that many people outside of the Great Lakes talk about, so we weren’t 100% sure what to expect. But we were blown away! During our week along the North Shore we visited many of the area’s must-see sights and hikes and quickly learned why this region is so beloved by Minnesotans and the neighboring states. 

With tons of green trees, rocky shoreline, a gorgeous lake that resembles an ocean, waterfalls, smaller towns, great local businesses, and so much more, Minnesota’s North Shore reminded us a ton of the Pacific Northwest, which is where we lived for 3 years and is our favorite place in the United States. So needless to say, this area brought us many happy, nostalgic emotions and stole our hearts as well.

Watch all of our adventures on Minnesota’s North Shore !

In this guide we’re sharing everything you need to know before visiting Minnesota’s North Shore, including where it is and how to get there, places to stay, what to know before you go, things to do along the shore, and some itinerary options. We hope that you enjoy this scenic roadway, as well as this region of Minnesota, as much as we did! 

LOOKING FOR MORE THINGS TO DO IN THE GREAT LAKE STATES?

• Things to do at Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park in Michigan
• Hiking the Chapel Loop Trail at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
• Things to do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Ohio
• Watch all of our Great Lakes Vlogs

Before embarking on your adventure, please review the  Leave No Trace principles  to ensure you leave every place better than you found it, so that others can enjoy these beautiful places for many years to come! These seven principles include planning ahead and preparing, hiking and camping on durable surfaces, disposing of waste properly (pack out what you pack in!), understanding campfire rules and always fully extinguishing your fires, respecting wildlife, and being considerate of other visitors. 

About Minnesota’s North Shore

How to get to minnesota’s north shore, when to visit minnesota’s north shore, how long do you need to visit minnesota’s north shore, what to bring to minnesota’s north shore, additional tips + things to know before visiting minnesota’s north shore, where to stay on minnesota’s north shore, the best things to do on minnesota’s north shore, road trip itineraries for minnesota’s north shore.

Minnesota’s North Shore is a 150 mile stretch of land along the shore of Lake Superior, the largest of the Great Lakes, running from Duluth to Grand Portage, right on the Canadian Border. Along the way, there are tons of state parks, short and long hikes (including the 310 mile Superior Trail ), beaches, waterfalls, scenic overlooks, historic sites, rocky coastline and cliffs, and so much more.  But beyond its beauty, this area is rich in history. The land along the North Shore has long been inhabited by Anishinaabe (also known as Chippewa or Ojibwe) Native Americans, who called Lake Superior “Gitchi-Gami, which means “Big Sea” or “Huge Water.” While much of their land has been taken by the United States, there is still a reservation on the North Shore called the Grand Portage Reservation, which gives visitors the chance to learn some of the important Native American history while in the area.

The area was also a huge hub for iron mining, as well as fur trading, with a depot for the North West Company, as well as an 8.5 mile portage trail that helped enable voyageurs to transport goods through rougher terrain. Today the area is much more developed, but still maintains a remote feeling, with many stretches with zero civilization (and sometimes zero cell service). But with tons of history to learn and beautiful nature to see, there is no shortage of adventures to be had on Minnesota’s North Shore!

Before embarking on your adventure, please review the Leave No Trace principles to ensure you leave every place better than you found it, so that others can enjoy these beautiful places for many years to come! These seven principles include planning ahead and preparing, hiking and camping on durable surfaces, disposing of waste properly (pack out what you pack in!), understanding campfire rules and always fully extinguishing your fires, respecting wildlife, and being considerate of other visitors. 

The most common starting point for the North Shore is Duluth, which is a cool port city along Lake Superior. We’ll share more about Duluth later on in this guide, but as the largest city along the North Shore, and with many lodging options and any amenities you may need, it’s the perfect place to begin your adventure. However, Duluth isn’t necessarily the easiest place to get to in the United States. Being very far north, it’s a bit of a drive from most other cities and it also doesn’t have the largest of airports. But it is worth the trek!  Here are your best options depending on the transportation method you’d like to take and where you’re coming from!

Flying to Minnesota’s North Shore

To get to Minnesota’s North Shore, the closest major airport is the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) , which is about a 2.5 hour drive to Duluth. This airport has direct flights from all over the country, so it should be pretty easy to find a flight that works well for you. Duluth does have its own airport, the Duluth International Airport (DLH) , which is smaller than the Minneapolis Airport, but does have direct flights from Minneapolis, Chicago, Fort Myers, and Phoenix on Delta, United, and Sun Country Airlines. You will need to rent a car to properly explore the North Shore, but any type of car would work fine!

Driving to Minnesota’s North Shore

As we mentioned above, Duluth is pretty far from most major US cities, but if you live in the Great Lakes or are planning to do a Great Lakes road trip, here is how far you can expect to drive to Duluth from nearby larger cities.  Minneapolis, MN: 2.5 hours (154 miles) Fargo, ND: 4.5 hours (239 miles) Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (Marquette): 4 hours, 40 minutes (252 miles) Green Bay, WI: 5 hours (331 miles) Milwaukee, WI: 6 hours (396 miles) Chicago, IL: 7 hours (468 miles)

Coming from Canada?

The North Shore goes all the way up to the Canadian border, so it’s a popular spot for both American and Canadian citizens to visit. If you’re coming from Canada, the best Canadian airport to fly into would be Thunder Bay International Airport (YQT) . This airport is about 40 minutes from the US/Canada border at Grand Portage. If you decide to fly into this airport, you’ll want to do all of the stops we’re listing below in reverse.

Minnesota’s North Shore is a year-round destination, depending on your interests and preferred weather. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in each season!  Winter When you think of Minnesota, you may think of very cold winters. Minnesota’s North Shore often experiences single digit temperatures and can get anywhere from 70-80+ inches of snow per year…INSANE! For most people wanting to visit the area (including us, who are wimps when it comes to super cold weather), this would not be the ideal time to explore, but for others, the winter brings more solitude along the North Shore, as well as some fun winter activities, like cross country skiing, downhill skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.  Spring Spring is when the temperatures start to rise a bit and the sun shines more, but there can still be snowstorms, so you never really know what you’re going to get. However, if you want to avoid the summer crowds and have slightly warmer weather than the winter, this is a great time to visit. Some things to know about visiting in the spring is that trails can be a bit muddy due to melting snow and most trees will still be dead, which on the plus side means more open views, but also means it is slightly less scenic.

Summer Summer is the peak season for visiting the North Shore! The daytime temperatures will be a perfect 70-ish degrees, while the evenings will be a nice crisp, 50 degrees. There will be some nice sunshine and all trails will be fully accessible, but things will be a lot more crowded due to summer vacations and many locals wanting to enjoy the warmer weather after a cold winter. We visited the North Shore in August 2021 and it was perfect! Although we had some gloomier days, we also experienced lots of sunshine and the temperatures were amazing. We did experience crowds, but it wasn’t nearly as bad as what we are used to in national parks and out west. The downside of the summer on the North Shore is that the bugs can be bad, especially the more inland you go. We also experienced a lot of wildfire smoke during our visit, from fires out west, which is something we were not expecting. One tool we use to check fires and see where smoke is the thickest is AirNow , which helped us get a better idea of how long the smoke would damper the views.

Fall Fall is also a great time to visit the North Shore, as the weather is cooler, but not too cold and the trees in the mountains and shoreline burst with fall colors. Because of this, it can be a bit crowded, especially on the weekends.  If you want to see fall foliage, the North Shore tends to peak around mid-September to mid-October, depending on where you want to visit and how inland you go. When we visited in August, we were starting to see some leaves change and we cannot imagine how gorgeous it would be at its peak! We definitely plan to visit in the fall next time. For this guide we’ll be focusing on the summer and fall months, as that is when we visited and when the majority of the things to do on Minnesota’s North Shore are accessible. But we will be including some winter activities as well, just in case you find yourself that way then.

While you can technically drive from Duluth to Grand Portage (on the Canadian Border) on Minnesota’s North Shore in just under 3 hours, it would be pretty hard to resist making some stops along the way! To fully explore Minnesota’s North Shore, we recommend giving yourself between 5-7 days. While you could spend less if you’re focusing on just one or two areas, having at least 5 days would give you time to drive the entire North Shore, plus enjoy the cities and towns along the way, go for hikes and explore the state parks, and relax a bit. We spent a total of 4 days exploring Minnesota’s North Shore, but around a week actually in the area, and it was pretty jam packed, so we’d suggest spreading your activities out a bit more than we did. We will include some itineraries towards the end of this guide for 5-7 days, which you could shorten or extend based on your preferences!

Since most of the best things to do on Minnesota’s North Shore include outdoor activities, you’ll want to bring plenty of outdoor gear and clothing. To see everything we take hiking, including some of our clothing items, check out our hiking gear .  But for the North Shore, we have a few additional items we want to suggest that you bring with you.

While we’re not including any stops in Canada on this guide, the North Shore ends at the Canadian Border, so if you want to continue on and explore part of Canada (or are coming from Canada), make sure to pack your passport and any required COVID documentation. During our visit, the border was still closed, but we would’ve loved to have hopped over!

America the Beautiful Pass

If you plan to visit Isle Royale National Park while on Minnesota’s North Shore or hop over to Voyageurs National Park, don’t forget your America the Beautiful pass ! If you do not have this pass already, we highly recommend it if you enjoy the national parks. It is $80 per year and will get you into any National Park, monument, or forest for free.

Bear Canister

If you plan to camp while on the North Shore, especially in the backcountry, make sure to bring proper food storage, like a bear canister . There are black bears on the North Shore and we actually ran into one while on a hike!

Get a state park pass (if applicable)

Minnesota’s North Shore is home to quite a few state parks and many of our suggested things to do will include these parks. If you plan to visit more than 5 parks while in Minnesota (whether on the North Shore or elsewhere in the state), we suggest getting the annual state park pass , which is $35 and is good for one year at any state park in Minnesota. Each park is typically $7, so after 5 parks, this is a good way to save money. However, there are a couple ways to avoid having to pay for every park. For visitors, if you pay for one park for the day, you can get into any others that day for free. And since there are many state parks on the North Shore, with many close together, you will likely visit more than one in a day. So keep that in mind when deciding if a state park pass makes sense for you. For those who live in Minnesota, some libraries offer 7-day park passes that you can check out for free! The initiative (which runs through June 2022) is designed to help people experience the parks without the financial barrier of an entry fee. Check here to see if a library near you offers this.

Central Time Zone

This may be obvious, but Minnesota is located in the Central Time Zone. During our visit across North Dakota and through the Great Lakes we encountered three different time zones, so we wanted to mention this just in case you’ll be on a longer road trip as well.

Download offline maps

Cell service can be nonexistent in parts of the North Shore, so make sure to download offline Google Maps for the area, as well as offline maps for any trails you wish to hike on AllTrails. 

Almost everything is dog friendly

Minus the Grand Portage National Monument, Isle Royale National Park, indoor attractions, as well as some restaurants and coffee shops, almost everything on this guide is dog friendly! So if you want to bring your pup along, you can easily find ways to include them in many activities. Kona got to enjoy so many trails with us on Minnesota’s North Shore and LOVED getting to “eat” the waves at the beaches!

Lake Superior is ICE COLD!

Lake Superior is the coldest of the 5 Great Lakes, with the surface temperature only reaching about 68 degrees in the summer and MUCH colder the other times of the year. So be prepared to be very cold if you want to go for a dip!

The trails have LOTS of stairs

One thing that surprised us about Minnesota’s North Shore was how many stairs the trails had. We joked that they call Minnesota “the land of 10,000 lakes,” but that it should instead be called “the land of 10,000 stairs.” While many trails are short and not too hard, if you have difficulty with steps, just be aware that most trails include them.

Start early

If visiting in the summer or fall, starting early is key to getting parking at some locations, as well as enjoying them with some solitude. While we didn’t find the crowds to be horrendous compared to other places we have visited, starting around sunrise gave us the chance to experience many popular spots all to ourselves.

While there are many different places you could stay along Minnesota’s North Shore, for this guide (and our suggested itineraries at the end), we suggest staying in Duluth (at the beginning of your trip) and then Grand Marais (for your time more north on the shore). This will prevent you from hopping around too much night to night and will give you a good basecamp for adventure. Here are some suggested lodging options for each destination! 

• Canal Park Lodge
• Comfort Suites Canal Park
• Hampton Inn Duluth-Canal Park
• Fairfield Inn & Suites Duluth Waterfront

Duluth Makers Loft (Studio, 1 bathroom): This loft is located above the Bailey Builds storefront, which is a local shop with locally made products, plus their own wooden mosaics. This Airbnb has everything you need, including a kitchen, plus fun features like a hammock! Walkable Urban Studio (1 bedroom, 1 bathroom): This Airbnb is located right by the lake and features local art on the wall, which you can actually buy from the Airbnb, with all proceeds supporting the artist. We think this is SO cool! 923 Flats (Studio, 1 bathroom): This Airbnb is in a former motel, which has been renovated into super nice flats! Condo steps away from Lake Superior/Canal Park (3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms): This condo is SO beautiful, with brick walls, exposed beams, and industrial finishes. It is a bit pricey, but it can sleep 7, so it’s great for groups. Historic Architecture + Modern Design (3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom): While technically not in Duluth, but in Superior, Wisconsin (just across the bridge from Duluth), this apartment is a good option for groups or families.

If you’re in an RV or van like us, here are a couple campground options while in Duluth:

• Cloquet/Duluth KOA Journey
• Buffalo House

During our time in Duluth, we boondocked at the Cloquet Walmart and didn’t have any issues.

Grand Marais

• Best Western Plus Superior Inn : We stayed here for a couple nights and it was great! The hotel is walking distance to town and right on the water, so if it’s warm, you have a nice beach to lay out on.
• East Bay Suites
• The Mayhew Inn
• Gunflint Lodge : This lodge is located on the Gunflint Trail and is 1 hour north of Grand Marais, but if you want to enjoy this area for a night or two, this is a great place to stay.
• The Harbor Home (2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom): This bungalow is walking distance to town and even offers bikes to use!
• Mökki: Dovetail Log Cabin (1 bedroom, 1 bathroom): This cabin is super unique, with cool design features and character. And it’s right by town!
• Mökki: Birdhouse (1 bedroom, 1 bathroom): This A-frame is super cool and offers some nice features, like a soaking tub. 
• The Lighthouse (Studio, 1 bathroom): This very unique studio is designed like the Grand Marais lighthouse! It includes a lighthouse light you can control, a sauna, plus a balcony with amazing views.
• The Aurora (1 bedroom, 1 bathroom): Wow, this place belongs in a magazine (and it actually was featured in one)! The design is very modern, with lots of wood elements, large windows, and a patio.

If you want a more nature-filled stay while in Grand Marais, here are some campgrounds, which can accommodate tents and also RVs!

• Grand Marais Campground & Marina
• Cascade River State Park : This park is about 15 minutes away from Grand Marais.
• Judge C.R. Magney State Park : This park is not in Grand Marais, but it’s a less than 20 minute drive!

During our time on the North Shore, we camped at Ryden’s Border Store for a couple nights, which is located right by the Canadian border. It’s just a gas station and convenience store, but they offer a place to park overnight for $10, with electric and water hookups, which is a killer deal. If you park closest to the gas station, you can also pick up the wifi!

There are so many things to do on Minnesota’s North Shore and this list below, while not inclusive of everything there is to do, is full of our favorite stops that we made, plus some spots we wanted to check out, but ran out of time. We’re listing these stops in order from south to north, including hikes, parks, roadside stops, and places to eat. We hope this gives you a good idea of what to see while on the North Shore!

Duluth is located along the Minnesota-Wisconsin border and is the largest port city on Lake Superior, as well as the fourth largest city in Minnesota. We visited Duluth on a very foggy, rainy day and it reminded us a lot of a smaller version of Seattle, before Seattle got very popular, with its industrial style buildings, craftsman homes, location on the water, moody weather, and the hills that are right behind downtown. So it’s safe to say that even with less than ideal weather, we really enjoyed it! There is tons to see and do in this medium-sized town and here are some of our suggestions!

Things to do in Duluth

Canal Park Being a port city, Duluth has a lot of shipping history, starting in the 1800s when it became a mid-continent transportation hub, with cargoes full of lumber, grain, coal, and iron ore, as well as people, such as immigrants and businessmen. The canal opened in 1871 and today is still a working canal, as well as home to Canal Park , a popular tourist area on the water that is fun to walk around. At Canal Park you can find the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center, the 1905 Corps of Engineers Building, restaurants, shops, and it’s where you can see Duluth’s iconic Aerial Lift Bridge.  Aerial lift bridge One of the top sights in Duluth and at Canal Park is the Aerial Lift Bridge , which was completed in the early 1900s and actually started with a suspended gondola that would go across, carrying people and vehicles, but in 1929, it transformed to have a road that went across instead. Today it still raises for ships entering the harbor basin from Lake Superior and watching the ships come through is a very popular thing to do while in Duluth. You can see a schedule online of when ships are coming through, including what type of ship they are and what year they are.  Unfortunately no ships were coming through during our visit, but the bridge is pretty cool to walk across! Lake Superior Marine Museum Also located at Canal Park is the Lake Superior Marine Museum , which has a FREE museum that shares the maritime history of the lake and the important role Duluth Harbor played in shaping the early American steel industry, as well as Midwestern cargo transport across the globe.  We found this museum to be super interesting and despite it not being huge, there is a lot to learn and see! Before visiting, make sure to check their current hours and dates open here , which may vary by season.

Enger Park + Tower Enger Park is located southwest of Canal Park and downtown Duluth and is a beautiful natural escape within the city. The park is home to different trails, a Japanese Garden, so many gorgeous flowers, and Enger Tower, which is an 80-foot, five-story stone observation tower that has views of Duluth at the top. The park and tower are both named after Bert Enger, a furniture dealer who willed two-thirds of his estate to the city of Duluth for the development of a lookout tower and beautified grounds for tourists to enjoy. And fun fact: the tower has been visited by royalty multiple times! The first time was in June 1939, when Crown Prince Olav and Princess Martha of Norway arrived in the park to formally dedicate Enger Tower in memory of Bert Enger. And the second time was in 2011 when King Harald V of Norway and Queen Sonja came to celebrate restorative repairs.  Although we visited on a super foggy day, we got to see some of the views from the top for a second before fog rolled back in. We imagine it’s beautiful on a clear day! Minnesota Point Minnesota Point , which is also known as Park Point, is a 7 mile, narrow sand spit that extends out from Canal Park, separating Lake Superior from Superior Bay and the Duluth Harbor Basin. This area is full of many homes, but also some parks and beaches to enjoy. As we have mentioned above, the weather wasn’t very beachy during our visit, but we imagine on a nice summer day this is a great place to be! Glensheen Mansion The Glensheen Mansion is a 39 room mansion, as well as grounds on the shore of Lake Superior that includes gardens and a bridge, which was built by Chester and Clara Congdon in the early 1900s. The Congdons were a prominent family in the area known for iron mining, as well as for providing land for public use, like the North Shore Scenic Highway and Congdon Park. In 1979, the mansion was donated to the University of Minnesota Duluth and turned into a museum, which still has original items from the Congdon family. It costs $20+ per adult to visit, depending on the tour you choose. Jay Cooke State Park Located just 20 minutes from downtown Duluth is Jay Cooke State Park , which includes a forest, the St. Louis River, rocky terrain, a suspension bridge, waterfalls, and trails. This is a popular park to visit in both the winter, for cross country skiing, as well as in the summer for hiking. A couple popular trails to check out are the Silver Creek Trail (3.4 miles, 291 feet of elevation gain) and the Carlton and Thomson Trail Loop (6.5 miles, 390 feet of elevation gain), or do a combination of them both!

Places to eat in Duluth

During our visit, we ate at a couple local spots, which we loved and highly recommend! OMC Smokehouse We are always skeptical when we try BBQ outside of the hot spots like Texas and the rest of the south, but OMC Smokehouse (which stands for Oink Moo Cluck) could hang with the big boys in Texas, according to Adam. The brisket was deliciously moist and had a ton of flavor, the ribs were dynamite, and all the sides were excellent as well. Our waiter told us that the owners (who also own Duluth Grill) did a large BBQ tour to major BBQ destinations and brought what they learned back to their restaurant and it’s safe to say they put their knowledge to good use! Love Creamery Love Creamery is a local ice cream shop with two locations, Canal Park and Lincoln Park. The Lincoln Park location is across the street from OMC Smokehouse and we may or may not have visited both locations one day. Their handcrafted ice cream is made with local ingredients and every flavor is super creamy and delicious. We recommend getting the flight, which comes in a cute egg carton, so you can try multiple flavors! A few other great places to eat in Duluth, from some locals suggestions are: Northern Waters Smokehaus , Va Bene , Duluth Grill , Pizza Luce (a Minnesota chain), Dovetail Cafe , New Scenic Cafe (tucked outside of town with a garden and some lake views), Vikre Distillery , and The PortLand Malt Shoppe .

Two Harbors

Two Harbors is a small town located about 30 minutes up the lakeshore from Duluth and has a couple great dining establishments to stop at along your drive, including a very iconic place for pie! Cedar Coffee Company Cedar Coffee Company is tucked into the woods, with a wonderful outdoor seating area, plus delicious coffee and some food items! Betty’s Pies When people found out we were visiting the North Shore, we got so many recommendations for Betty’s Pies ! Betty’s Pie started in 1956 when Betty’s father Aleck built a fish shack on Highway 61. Betty thought it would be nice to have some goodies for the fisherman, so she made donuts and coffee for them, which over time evolved into hamburgers and hot dogs. In 1958, Betty turned the old fish stand into a cafe and added pies to the menu. Over time, the cafe expanded, as has the pie menu, and it has become a North Shore Institution. We hear they run out of specific pie flavors , so go early to ensure you have your pick! When we visited, we got the Butterfinger Pie and the Great Lakes Crunch Pie, which has 5 fruits (apple, blueberry, rhubarb, strawberry, and raspberry) which signify the 5 Great Lakes. We loved both pies so much! Rustic Inn Cafe While Betty’s Pies may be the popular pie spot among tourists, many locals say that Rustic Inn Cafe has even better pie. While we cannot speak to this first hand, we did have some of their pie in a Love Creamery flavor and can confirm the bites we had were delicious. We suggest grabbing a couple slices from both and seeing which you prefer!

Gooseberry Falls State Park

Gooseberry Falls State Park is said to be one of the most popular state parks not only on the North Shore, but in Minnesota as a whole. This park is home to the famous Gooseberry Falls, which flows over basalt rock formed by lava over a billion years ago. You can see the upper, middle, and lower Gooseberry Falls on a short walk from the Visitor Center (this map is helpful to see the different areas of the park and trails). But there are also other areas to explore as well! One popular, longer trail to hike is the Fifth Falls and Superior Hiking Trail Loop , which is 3 miles and takes you by Gooseberry Falls, as well as to Fifth Falls. Another trail is the Gitchi Gummi Trail , which is 2.2 miles and has views overlooking Lake Superior.

Pink Beach (Iona’s Beach)

For a unique experience, head to Iona’s Beach Scientific and Natural Area , which is home to a pink beach! This 300 yard crescent shaped beach is made up of smooth, pink rocks, which are a result of the crazy waves of Lake Superior crashing onto pink rhyolite and felsite bedrock that make up the cliffside. And when the waves crash on the rocks on the beach, it is said they sing a little song! While not a sandy beach, it’s still a great place to bring a chair, a book, and some snacks, while enjoying Lake Superior. However, it can be a bit tricky to get to. There are two parking lots , and if you park in the first lot, you can follow a trail to the main beach.

Split Rock Lighthouse State Park

Split Rock Lighthouse is an iconic spot on the North Shore and is a must-visit in our opinion! Lake Superior is known for some pretty stormy waters and in November 1905, a rough storm damaged 29 ships, some of which were U.S. Steel ships that carried ore. This disaster created the need for a new lighthouse, and in 1910, the Split Rock Lighthouse was completed.  This lighthouse sits on a 130 foot tall cliff and with its light range of 22 miles, it now helps guide ships and keep them safe.  There are a couple ways to visit this park and see the lighthouse. While the lighthouse is in a state park, the lighthouse itself is managed by the Minnesota Historical Society and has separate fees to access the lighthouse and its grounds. So if you’d like to visit the lighthouse by itself, you do not need to pay the state park entrance fee and will instead pay to visit the grounds, as well as go to the top. You can see the lighthouse’s schedule, plus current costs for different types of admission here .

But if you just want to see the lighthouse from the lakeshore, which is a great photo op and what we did, you will need to pay the state park entrance fee, unless you have paid this for another park that day or have the state parks pass. This is the cheaper way to see the lighthouse, although you cannot go inside of it this way. To see the lighthouse this way, we parked here and then walked down a pathway towards Pebble Beach and then walked to the left along the rocky lakeshore closer to the lighthouse to snap a photo of it. You can also add on the 3.5 mile Day Hill Loop to see more views of the lighthouse, as well as the lake.

Bean and Bear Lakes

One of the most popular longer hikes on the North Shore is Bean and Bear Lakes . This 6.5 mile trail, which gains 1,066 feet in elevation, takes you to overlooks of two gorgeous lakes, surrounded by trees for as far as the eye can see. You can even go down to the base of Bear Lake, which Kona loved splashing around in! We did this hike in August and surprisingly it wasn’t that busy! We had the overlooks to ourselves, but did see more people on the hike down, as well as could hear people camping at the base of Bear Lake. While the views on the hike were gorgeous in the summertime, we hear that it is even more stunning in the fall when the leaves turn bright yellow. We caught a glimpse of a few trees turning a bit early and we can only imagine how magical it would be during peak foliage.

Want to get 30% off an AllTrails+ membership ? Use our code aplusk30 (you must redeem this code on the website, not the app)! We use AllTrails+ on every single hike and it is the most helpful hiking tool out there! Some of the features we love are offline maps (so we can navigate even without cell service), wrong-turn alerts, and its 3D maps feature, so we can get a feel for trails before we hike.

Black Beach

We have been to black sand beaches in Hawaii, but did you know Minnesota is also home to a black beach? Located in Silver Bay, Black Beach gets its black “sand” (more like small rocks) color from taconite, which is a low grade iron ore that used to be dumped into the lake by local miners years ago.  Thankfully this practice has stopped, but the beach maintains its black color, which is super unique and cool!  One thing we thought was really nice about the beach is that there are many picnic tables on the beach, as well as fire rings, so it’s a great place to have a picnic and fire! 

Palisade Head

Palisade Head is a sheer rock cliff that rises 300 feet above Lake Superior and is a great, quick stop while driving along the North Shore. To visit Palisade Head, you can drive up a narrow, steep road to a small parking lot. However, this road isn’t suitable for large vehicles and the parking lot does fill up, so for those in a large vehicle like ourselves, we parked at the bottom of the road and walked up. While steep at times and not scenic to walk the road, we were glad we did this, as we wouldn’t have been able to park at the top. Once at the top, there are some overlooks to see Palisade Head and if you’re lucky, you can watch rock climbers go up and down it (so crazy)! 

Tettegouche State Park

Tettegouche State Park (pronounced Tet-uh-gooch) was one of our favorite stops along the North Shore! This park is home to waterfalls and some crazy views of Lake Superior. There are a couple areas of this park and to start off your time, park by the visitor center (it’s free to park here) and hike the 1.2 mile Shovel Point Trail . This trail has multiple spots to see views of the rocky shoreline and lake, including some spots where you can hike down to the lake. We visited on a cloudy day, with rough waves, and we were blown away as we watched the large waves (we hear they weren’t even that large compared to how it can get) crash against the rocky cliffs. Combine that view with all of the green trees and rolling hills in the distance and it really reminded us of being on the Oregon or Washington coast. We LOVED this hike!

After hiking to Shovel Point, we ventured to a different area of the park (you take the road by the visitor center and go underneath the highway) to hike to High Falls and Two Step Falls! We parked here and hiked to High Falls first, which included a suspension bridge and river views, before reaching the base of the gorgeous High Falls. It was pretty busy down there, but extremely picturesque.

Fun fact: High Falls (which is different from the High Falls we will mention later) is the tallest waterfall located 100% in Minnesota. After High Falls, we backtracked the way we came and instead of going back to the parking lot, we went to see Two Step Falls, which required many stairs to get down to, but was way less busy.

We can’t find the exact route we did on AllTrails, but if you look at this map , towards the bottom of the first page, you can see the trails to both of these falls.

Temperance River State Park

Temperance River State Park is home to the Temperance River Gorge, which is a narrow crack that has a river rushing through it as it makes its way to Lake Superior. To see a variety of scenery in the park, hike the Carlton Peak via Superior Hiking Trail , which is 7 miles and 1,250 feet of elevation gain (so not the easiest), but will take you by waterfalls, the gorge, and up to Carlton Peak, where you’ll have great views of Lake Superior.

Lutsen is a very small town along the North Shore, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t offer some big fun!  Just north of town is Lutsen Mountain , which is said to be the only true mountain ski experience in the Midwest. In the winter, you can ski, snowboard, snow mobile, or go dog sledding nearby. In the summer you can ride the gondola or their alpine slide (we love alpine slides!).  Before or after you hit the slopes, check out Fika Coffee for a caffeine boost!

Cascade River State Park

Similar to the other state parks in the area, Cascade River State Park is a beautiful park on the shore of Lake Superior, with waterfalls, a river, and other views to enjoy. For a hike in the park, we suggest the Lookout Mountain Loop , which is a 3.2 mile double loop (610 feet of elevation gain) that takes you to the waterfalls, as well as Lookout Mountain, which overlooks the area.

Grand Marais is the largest of the smaller towns along the North Shore and has a creative, artsy, and outdoorsy feel. We loved it here so much and we clearly aren’t the only ones, as it has been named America’s Coolest Small Town, a Top 10 Beach Getaway, and Next Great Adventure Town. The town itself is really cute and walkable, has some great shops and local businesses, and with its location right on the water and proximity to many activities, you could stay busy here for many days! Here is everything we suggest seeing and eating while in Grand Marais!

Things to do in Grand Marais

Artists Point Artists Point is a peninsula that juts off into Lake Superior, right by downtown Grand Marais. It’s such a fun place to explore, with rocks to walk on along the lake, as well as a sea wall you can walk on to reach the Grand Marais Lighthouse, which was built in 1922. There are great views of Grand Marais and the harbor. As the name may imply, it’s also a popular spot for painters, so keep your eyes open for artists at work! Shop in town If shopping is your thing, Grand Marais is home to many locally owned shops. We suggest checking out The Big Lake , Upstate MN , Drury Lane Books , and Gunflint Mercantile for sweet treats. Pincushion Mountain  Pincushion Mountain is located just behind Grand Marais and offers mountain biking trails , hiking trails (like this 4 mile round trip hike up the mountain!), or just enjoy the views from this overlook .

Drive the Gunflint Trail The Gunflint Trail is a 57 mile paved roadway and National Scenic Byway that begins in Grand Marais and ends at the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, near the US border with Ontario. It’s said to be a great place to see wildlife and has some hikes along the way! During our visit, we drove the entire road and while the road is mostly lined with trees, if you go off the main road a bit you can find lakes and fun hikes. We hiked up Honeymoon Bluff (0.4 miles), which had some amazing views of the lakes in the area, as well as Magnetic Rock (3 miles), which takes you to a rock that is magnetic. We didn’t believe it, but make sure to bring something magnetic to test it and prepare to have your mind blown! We also saw a beaver on this hike, which was really cool. We drove this road and did these hikes in the afternoon on a weekday and didn’t encounter many people. It was so peaceful! We’d love to come back and spend a few nights at the Gunflint Lodge and just enjoy the many hikes and scenery in the area.

Canoe the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness The BWCA Wilderness extends over 1,098,000 acres in size and has over 1,100 lakes and 1,200 miles of canoe routes. And many entry points for canoe trips are along the Gunflint Trail, making it the perfect place to start your adventure.  While we haven’t gone canoeing in the BWCA Wilderness, it is very high up on our list for the future! There are many ways to explore this area and this BWCA Wilderness planning guide is extremely helpful and explains how to get permits, what to bring, and shows all of the entry points. Note : you can do this in just a couple days, but it is recommended to spend at least 5 days in the BWCA Wilderness. 

Places to Eat in Grand Marais

Java Moose Java Moose is a wonderful local coffee shop right across from the lake in downtown Grand Marais. We went here multiple times during our trip and LOVED the Maple Latte! World’s Best Donuts While we cannot confirm if World’s Best Donuts are in fact the world’s best (we still need to do more donut research), we can say that they are very tasty! This spot has been family owned and operated since 1969 and is known for their cake donuts, which are everything you want in a cake donut…a little crisp outer layer with a moist and fluffy inside! They also have a unique item called Skizzles, which is a sweet, yeast dough stretched out and deep fried then covered in sugar! It’s about as big as your head! Tip: you can order your donuts the day before to pick up the following morning and skip the line! Also, make sure to check their hours, as they are closed some days of the week! Hungry Hippie Tacos Tacos are our favorite, so we had to try tacos in Grand Marais! Hungry Hippie Tacos aren’t just regular tacos though, they are made with fry bread instead of regular tortillas (you can get regular tortillas though). Fry bread is a Native American bread that originates from the Navajo Nation, when they were forced to make a 300-mile journey known as the “Long Walk” and relocate to New Mexico onto land that couldn’t easily support their traditional staples of vegetables and beans. To prevent the indigenous populations from starving, the government gave them canned goods as well as white flour, processed sugar and Lard, which they used to create this fried dough.  Each fry bread taco is loaded with your choice of meat, cheese, lettuce, sour cream (get the chipotle sour cream!), corn, red onions, jalapenos, sauerkraut, and salsa. They are SO good! But what may have been even better than the tacos were totchos (tater tot nachos). We ate here twice as well, which is how you know we loved it! A few other spots we heard good things about, but didn’t have the chance to try are Voyageur Brewing Company , Angry Trout Cafe , and Sydney’s Frozen Custard .

Judge C.R. Magney State Park

We know we’ve mentioned quite a few state parks so far, but Judge C.R. Magney State Park is a little bit different from the rest, because for many years, its top attraction, Devil’s Kettle Falls , had a bit of a mystery behind it. The river at the top of the falls splits into two at an outcropping of rhyolite, which is a hard, volcanic rock. And half of the water falls down like a waterfall does, but the other half vanishes into a hole and never pops out again.

There were many theories on where the water goes, including that it continues underground to Lake Superior, but it turns out the water that goes into the hole simply reenters the river from underground, right below the kettle, and since it’s so powerful, you cannot tell. The hike to Devil’s Kettle Falls is only 2 miles round trip, with just under 400 feet of elevation gain and features multiple waterfalls. It is 100% worth the short hike to see it!

Grand Portage National Monument

The Grand Portage National Monument is an absolute must when on the North Shore!  This FREE national monument shares the history of the Grand Portage Ojibwe Native Americans, whose land this is on, as well as the 8.5 mile portage trail. The trail contributed to the fur trade which enabled European expansion into the northwest and developed the international boundary between Canada and the US. 

While here you can see a recreation of the headquarters from the North West Company, who came to the area to disrupt the monopoly on the fur trade by the Hudson’s Bay Company. They ended up dominating the North American fur trade by controlling 80% of it. There are quite a few buildings of the North West Company to explore, like a kitchen and the dining area.  

You can also see an Ojibwe village and learn how the Ojibwe and North West Company worked together. There are workers wearing period pieces that will help explain all of the history as you walk through the different areas. It was extremely fascinating!

Beyond the buildings and history, this national monument is also very scenic as it’s located right on the water and offers different hiking trails. For a short trail, hike up Mount Rose (1.2 miles), which overlooks the monument, as well as Lake Superior. We had started this hike, but not too far into it we ran into a BLACK BEAR (!!!) and decided to turn around since he appeared to be going the way we needed to go. You can also hike the 8.5 mile (one way) Grand Portage Trail , which is what the voyageurs used to transport goods up to Fort Charlotte right on the Canadian border. You can camp overnight at Fort Charlotte with a free permit.

Mount Josephine

We hear that the hike up Mount Josephine has the best views on the North Shore! This 2.5 mile round trip trail gains 646 feet of elevation, which may not sound like a ton, but with the first 0.6 miles being flat and the last part being very uphill. We had intended to hike up Mount Josephine, but the parking lot is tiny and is only able to fit 4 cars maximum. Since our van is huge, we didn’t feel comfortable parking there and risking blocking someone in or having someone hit it. So we skipped it this time, unfortunately.

Wayswaugoing Bay Overlook

This roadside overlook is incredible! From the parking lot and the cool extended viewing platform you have gorgeous views of the Wayswaugoing Bay, Lake Superior, and the surrounding land.  During our stop here it was pretty smoky, so the views weren’t as clear as normal, but even with smoke, it was well worth a quick stop and a good plan B since we couldn’t hike Mount Josephine!

Isle Royale National Park

Isle Royale National Park is one of the most isolated national parks in the lower 48 and while technically in Michigan, it is located on Lake Superior and can be accessed from Grand Portage in Minnesota.  To get to Isle Royale you have two main transportation options: a boat or a seaplane. You can view all of the route options here . Grand Portage is the closest area to the park and the fastest by boat (seaplanes will be faster from other areas), so if you plan to visit the park while on the North Shore, leaving from Grand Portage is a good option. We have yet to make it to this park due to the logistics to get there and having Kona with us, but we will visit it someday! To find out everything to do on Isle Royale National Park, check out the NPS website . Note: You can do a day trip to Isle Royale National Park, but camping overnight is a popular activity and a better way to see more of the island.

Grand Portage State Park

Last, but definitely not least (we’d argue it’s in the top 5 best sights on the North Shore) is Grand Portage State Park . This park is located right at the US/Canada Border and is home to the tallest waterfall in Minnesota, High Falls (also called Pigeon Falls), which is 120 feet tall. We mentioned another High Falls earlier, which is the tallest waterfall 100% in Minnesota, but this High Falls is the tallest in Minnesota, although it is partially in Canada too! The hike to High Falls is only about 1 mile and is pretty easy and oh so beautiful once you get to the viewing platforms to overlook the falls. During our visit, the falls weren’t raging, but still had a lot of water and were very impressive (and we’ve seen a lot of waterfalls on our adventures)!

After seeing High Falls, we suggest continuing to Middle Falls, which makes for a total hike of around 5 miles , with 767 feet of elevation gain. It’s definitely a lot steeper and rockier/rootier to get to Middle Falls, however, there is a quick detour around 1.4 miles in that has great views of the area, which is a good spot to stop and rest for a second.  Once you get to Middle Falls, you’ll get to walk right along the riverside to see smaller falls at the top of the falls and go a bit further down the trail to see them plummet over the side. From the Middle Falls viewpoint you can see into Canada from here and it was pretty cool for us to see Canadians enjoying the views from the other side!

A couple things to note: this park is actually FREE! So if considering getting the state parks pass, keep in mind that you don’t have to pay for this one. Also, the water here contains giardia, so don’t let your pups get in!

If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed and struggling to figure out how to organize your time on Minnesota’s North Shore, here are a few road trip itineraries from Duluth to Grand Portage to get you started!

5 Day Itinerary

Spend the day exploring Duluth! We highly recommend visiting Canal Park and the Aerial Lift Bridge, Enger Tower, the Lake Superior Marine Museum, and eating at both OMC Smokehouse and Love Creamery.

Leave Duluth early to start your drive up the North Shore! Along the way, grab coffee at Cedar Coffee Company and some pie at Betty’s Pies (you can also get breakfast there, but pie counts as breakfast too, right?!). Spend the morning at Gooseberry Falls State Park, before heading to Pink Beach, Split Rock Lighthouse, Black Beach, and Palisade Head. All of these stops can be pretty quick depending on how much time you’d like to spend there. If you don’t have time for it all, don’t worry, you can revisit this area on Day 5! After exploring, head to Grand Marais to stay for the next few nights!

Spend the day in Grand Marais! We suggest starting with maple lattes at Java Moose and donuts from the World’s Best Donuts and enjoying them by the water. Make sure to head to Artists Bluff too! For the afternoon, you could just hang around Grand Marais and walk around the shops and hang out at the beach. Or you could drive the Gunflint Trail and go for a couple hikes, like Honeymoon Bluff or Magnetic Rock. If you want to grab a picnic lunch for the day, head to the Whole Foods Co-op beforehand to get some food items. After an afternoon of exploring, grab dinner at Hungry Hippie Tacos to end the day! 

Leave Grand Marais early (you’ll be back that night!) for a day trip up to Grand Portage. Along the way, stop at Devil’s Kettle Falls (20 minutes from Grand Marais) for a quick hike to see the mysterious falls.  Continue up the North Shore about 25 minutes to the Grand Portage National Monument. After spending a few hours walking through the buildings and learning the history of the area, continue up the North Shore to either Mount Josephine (if you have time and there is parking) or the Wayswaugoing Bay Overlook to see beautiful views of Lake Superior. End the day at Grand Portage State Park to see High Falls, as well as hike to Middle Falls if you have time. And then head back to Grand Marais to rest for the night! 

For your final day on the North Shore, you’ll be heading back to Duluth, with some stops along the way! And first up: hike the Bean and Bear Lakes Loop! We suggest doing this first because it can get busy and it’s nice to have solitude at the overlooks. After your hike, head to Tettegouche State Park. We spent a few hours here and loved hiking to Shovel Point, High Falls, and Two Step Falls. If you didn’t have time for some stops on Day 2, you can spend the rest of the day checking them out before heading back to Duluth!

6 Day Itinerary

Follow the Day 1 itinerary from our “5 day itinerary”

Follow the Day 2 itinerary from our “5 day itinerary”

Follow the Day 3 itinerary from our “5 day itinerary”

Follow the Day 4 itinerary from our “5 day itinerary”

For Day 5, you have some options. You can either:

• Go to the Lutsen Mountains area to ride the gondola and alpine slide
• Spend more time on the Gunflint Trail 
• Visit Cascade River State Park or Temperance River State Park (or both!)
• Go to Isle Royale National Park for a day trip

Follow the Day 5 itinerary from above and head back to Duluth, with stops along the way!

7 Day Itinerary

For Days 5-6, you have some options. We suggest a combination of:

• Go to Isle Royale National Park for either a day trip or an overnight camping trip

Follow the Day 5 itinerary from our “5 day itinerary” and head back to Duluth, with stops along the way!

Ready to experience Minnesota’s North Shore?

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10 thoughts on “ the best things to do on minnesota’s north shore (duluth to grand portage road trip) ”.

Lester Park in Duluth is like being in a State Park way up the Shore! Also Congdon Park!

Awesome, we will have to check them out next time. There is SO much to do up there!

Wow! This guide is amazing….I’m from Duluth and I can safely say you definitely hit the highlights of this beautiful area. Great job! After eating at OMC, grab a beer at one or both of the breweries, either Bent Paddle or Ursa Minor. (These are all located close together in the Lincoln Park area.) Better yet, grab a table at Bent Paddle and order online from OMC..they’ll deliver right to your table.

We are always so happy to get a local’s approval! And thank you for sharing some brewery tips! As non drinkers, we don’t have first hand brewery knowledge to share, so we love when others can share their favorites!

Thank you so much for sharing your adventures with us! We are right in the middle of a 10-night hiking and camping trip on the North Shore and are greatly benefiting from the recommendations in your guide and youtube videos! We are a family of 6 (kids ages 5-13), so I would add two tips for families. One, the North Shore is an adventure wonderland for kids! Our kids have loved it so far (especially skipping rocks for days), but they are also used to the outdoors and are like mountain goats on rough terrain. If your kids are toddlers or less sure-footed, be aware that there are steep dropoffs almost everywhere, lots of rough-rocky-steep terrain, and swift-cold water. Young children will definitely need to be kept in hand and monitored very closely. Second, you may want to do your shopping ahead (there’s a Walmart in Duluth) and make your own meals. This is not really an affordable place to dine or buy groceries for a family. But you don’t have to let that stop you from sampling the local fare…what we do is share it as treats! So far, we’ve enjoyed sharing an order of tachos (which was devine, quite large and very filling!), some ice cream of course, and 3 skizzles split 6 ways – they’re huge, served warm, and oh so delicious! Thanks A+K for sharing those fun food recommendations!

We are so glad to hear you had a great trip!

I have followed you for some time now via Youtube, but this is my first time coming to your site to check out your content and wow am I impressed. This trip guide has helped me plan an August trip. Thank you so much for providing such a wealth of knowledge and detail. I don’t know when you find the time for all this!

Hi Allie! We are so glad you found our site! We like to think it’s the extra helpful version of our videos and we are so happy this helped you plan an upcoming trip. Have a blast!

I was raised in Duluth and my husband raised in Grand Marais. You’ve provided a great guide. Next time you’re in Grand Marais, try hiking Kadunce River. It has AMAZING views, if you hike up the river instead of the trail, but make sure you’re feet are protected (we wear Keen sandals). Also a stop at Sydney’s frozen custard & wood-fired pizza is a must. Just a couple ideas to add.

Awesome! Thanks for the tips!

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Minnesota’s North Shore of Lake Superior: A Three Day Road Trip

• Post last modified: May 22, 2022
• Post category: Itineraries / Long weekends / Minnesota / North America

Minnesota’s North Shore is a place of rugged beauty. This gem of a road trip winds its way along the shoreline of Lake Superior in Northern Minnesota as you head toward the Canadian border. This 145-mile scenic drive is one of our favorite places to explore in Minnesota. The road trip will take you through charming small towns and amazingly untouched wilderness. So add it to your bucket list today!

The “North Shore”, as it’s been dubbed, is filled with rushing waterfalls, pristine views, a plethora of state parks with hiking galore! You can easily spend a week exploring this area with all the things to do. However, we think that a 3 day weekend will get you your dose of wilderness without using all of your PTO. So pack your bags this Friday, tell your coworkers you won’t be in on Monday and head straight to Minnesota’s North Shore!

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When to visit.

This area of Minnesota is known for its amazing natural beauty. In order to explore this natural beauty to its full extent, we think that the best time to visit is in the summer. This is when you will be able to comfortably visit all of the stops on the shore. The extended daylight hours in the summer will also give you plenty of time to spend doing outdoor activities. Also, lots of businesses in this areas are seasonal so visiting Minnesota’s north shore in the summer will give you the greatest opportunity to visit them all.  

This trip is also beautiful in the fall! The amazing forests in the area make this a great fall color drive if you can time your trip around the leaf changes.  

You’ll also find plenty of outdoor activities here in the winter and spring but your daylight will be shorter and your toes will be colder, so plan accordingly. If you’re a waterfall lover, this drive is packed with them and they can be at their best during the winter and spring months.  

Getting There and Around

You’ll need a car to explore Minnesota’s North Shore completely. This area has been largely groomed as a road trip destination so while actives are plentiful, they are spread out.  

If you are flying into the area, Duluth does have an international airport. Domestic flights into this airport tend to be reasonably priced. However, the Minneapolis airport tends to have less expensive and more direct flights and is a 3.5 hour drive from Duluth. We’d recommend checking both airports to compare prices and layover times.  

Where to Stay

We would recommend choosing a central destination along the shoreline for your overnight stays.   Two Harbors and Grand Marais are both busier towns if your looking for places with restaurants.   If you choose to camp in a State Park, Tettegouche State Park is located in a very central area.  

You could also choose to stay in the Duluth area if you are looking for more nightlife. However, this will add a lot of driving time to each day. We did this and regretted it.  

We choose to explore Minnesota’s north shore in three chunks in order to decrease our driving time. We wanted to start on the southern portion of the shore and work our way north. Wherever you start, we would recommend trying to combine actives that are in close proximity to each other as this will decrease your driving time.  

Also, we chose not to spend any time in Duluth on this road trip. Duluth has so much to explore that you need a weekend to see it all. So when conserving time on your north shore road trip, we recommend skipping the many attractions Duluth has to offer and saving them for another weekend.

If you do want to spend some time in Duluth, check out our list of mostly free things to do in Duluth here.

Day 1 – two harbors area.

Start your day by visiting Russ Kendall’s smokehouse and Betty’s pies . These two amazing food stops are North Shore staples and are generally packed. We stocked up on fish, cheese and pie and packed them in a cooler for our picnic lunch. We consider this a pro tip 😉

Next stop is Gooseberry Falls State Park . This was our favorite stop along Minnesota’s north shore so give yourself plenty of time to explore. You’ll need to buy a Minnesota State Parks pass to explore this area. There are several options for passes, from single day admission ($7) to an annual pass ($35). Make sure to buy the pass that best suits your itinerary.  

You could easily spend an entire day exploring Gooseberry State Park . However, if you only have three day to explore Minnesota’s North Shore, we recommend focusing your attention on exploring the three main waterfalls that draw visitors to this busy park. You also should have time to explore either Fifth Falls or   the beach. We would recommend Fifth Falls for the quiet hiking enthusiasts and the beach to those looking to relax.  

For full information on visiting Gooseberry Falls State Park, check out our post here!

Next, stop at Iona’s Beach Scientific and Natural area to explore the unique red rock beach. One of the coolest things about the north shore is the different types of beaches that you can find, and this is one of the most unique.  

Head north and explore the Split Rock Lighthouse State Park. The state park includes the area around the lighthouse but the lighthouse is operated by the Minnesota historical society and requires an extra fee . If you like touring lighthouses, pay the fee and check it out. If you just want to take in the view of one of the most picturesque lighthouses we’ve ever seen, take the trails down to the beach and snap some photos. While we consider the hike down to the beach to be easy, due to the short and well groomed trails, it does include TONS of stairs.

Lastly, stop at Black Beach and explore the black sand that makes this the second unique beach you’ll visit on the north shore. This beach was created from iron ore tailing dumped into Lake Superior. So technically this is a man made beach of trash. But it’s so neat! The rough sand gave me a free pedicure and the water here is great for swimming. You could even stick around for an evening fire in one of the beach’s fire pits.  

Day 2 – Silver Bay area

First, head to the Silver Bay Marina and hike out to the island that connects to the marina via the break wall. This is an incredibly difficult hike due to the fact that you are hiking over large boulders to get to the island. Once you arrive at the island, a nice person has placed a rope and ladders there for you to climb up to the island. We were unable to complete this hike due to an incoming storm. So just be aware of your surrounding and your time as this hike is challenging and slow.  

Next, stop at Palisade Head lookout area. The steep drive to the top of this cliff will give you great views of the shoreline.

Head north to Tettegouche State Park . Put on your hiking shoes and explore the trails here. We hiked to High Falls, Two Step Falls and Cascade Falls. This took about 2 hours. Rain and hunger prevented us from hiking to Shovel Point but that hike came highly recommended from staff at the Visitor’s center.  

Lastly, stop at the Temperance River State Park . Take a short walk to the Hidden Falls and Upper Falls. This is a short and easy walk with stunning views. These falls fill a gorge and are really unique, they were our favorite! You could also enjoy a picnic dinner on the beach here with the relaxing sounds of Lake Superior in the background.  

If you still have time left in your day, consider a final stop at Cascade River State Park . Spend time exploring the many small waterfalls in the river or take a hike up to the amazing viewpoint. This is a great destination to visit in the evening light for full views of the forests and Lake Superior. 

Day 3 – Grand Marais area

Stop for breakfast at World’s Best Donuts . Expect to wait in line for these treats. Make sure to grab yourself skizzle and enjoy eating the sugar covered fair food for breakfast.  

Take your donuts out to Artist’s Point and wander out to the Grand Marais Lighthouse. The lighthouse itself isn’t very impressive, but the walk is beautiful.

Next head to Judge C.R. Magney State Park . Explore the hiking trails that lead to Devil’s Kettle. This super unique waterfall roars into a hole in the rock. This is worth the more strenuous hike.  

Make sure to stop at any lookouts along the way for beautiful views of Lake Superior.  

Last stop on Minnesota’s North Shore road trip before Canada is Grand Portage State Park . Take the easy hike to High Falls. Stairs are required to get to the viewing platform. On your hike, take time to look across Pigeon River that marks the border to Canada and wave at the Canadians hiking on the other side.

Want to Adjust the Itinerary?

This itinerary moves at a fast pace. We like to pack in as much as we can. However, if you like to move at a more leisurely speed, make sure to add an extra day and spend that doing some extra hiking in the state parks. If you’d like to explore Duluth, we’d recommend spending two extra days doing that.  

If you have a LOT of time, this section of scenic road is part of the Superior Circle Tour , a route that circles all of Lake Superior. You could head into Canada and explore more, or all, of this scenic route.  

We don’t think you can complete this itinerary in less time. So if you don’t have 3 days, choose one area or even one state park ( Gooseberry is our pick ) and spend the day there and eliminate the driving time that comes with road tripping.  

What to Budget?

Hotels and rentals along Minnesota’s north shore can be pricy. This is a favorite destination for couples and families so there are lots of romantic bed and breakfasts and large rental properties. These types of places cost upwards of $200/night. Budget accommodations are harder to find and book fast. However, camping is a great budget options with so many State Parks that have campgrounds. Camp sites in the area cost about $25/night and are a great option for budget travelers.

Other costs in the area are relatively average for a US destination. We spend a total of $375 on our three day trip when we camped.  

Meals will cost average around $10-$30/meal depending on what type of restaurant you visit. There are also several higher priced restaurants available on Minnesota’s north shore that cater to romantic evenings that have a higher price tag.  

Our itinerary focuses mainly on state parks and natural areas. Our Minnesota state parks pass cost us $35 dollars and is good for a full calendar year. The only other attraction that we paid for was admission in the Split Rock Lighthouse, which was $8/person.  

Gas prices can get higher in small towns and farther north so keep this in mind when you are planning your pit stops.  

Hopefully, you are now convinced that Minnesota’s North Shore is a great destination for your next long weekend. We know you’ll love it. So get planning and exploring today!

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Are you interested in visiting the beautiful North Shore in Minnesota? Packed with crazy cool historical sites, wondrous waterfalls, stunning views of Lake Superior, cute little lakeside towns with unique local shops, and so much more, the North Shore is one of the top places to road trip in MN. To help you plan your next adventure here, read my helpful guide on how to plan an awesome road trip up Minnesota’s North Shore.

Psst, this post contains affiliate links. Read our disclosure .

Earlier this year, my mom and I went on an amazing road trip up Minnesota’s North Shore to celebrate Mother’s Day with a mom and daughter adventure.

Our 3 day itinerary packed in popular North Shore destinations like Gooseberry Falls, Split Rock Lighthouse, and Grand Marais, as well as the more underrated sites, such as hiking up Mount Josephine, visiting High Falls on the Pigeon River (aka the tallest waterfall in Minnesota!), and Devil’s Kettle.

Though I was born and raised in Minnesota, not to mention I lived in Duluth for two summers, I never really gave the North Shore the attention it deserved.

In fact, for many years, I totally overlooked the state of MN as whole!

Instead, I sought to explore other destinations throughout the US, liking going on a 1-month USA road trip , wandering around Arizona for one week , visiting Glacier National Park , cruising up the stunning Oregon Coast , and camping throughout Yosemite and Sequoia National Park .

Turns out, this remarkable region in northern Minnesota is one of the best places you can explore by car! And it has so much to offer in terms of nature, historical sites, hiking routes, local gems, and more.

So, are you ready to discover Minnesota’s North Shore for yourself? Find out how to plan your own MN North Shore road trip by reading my guide below.

Table of Contents

HOW TO PLAN A MINNESOTA NORTH SHORE ROAD TRIP

First things first – where should you start this road trip from?

Depending on where you’re coming from, I recommend flying into Duluth, as this is where the MN North Shore begins. Not to mention, Duluth is a seriously fun city!

Alternatively, you can also fly into Minneapolis, rent a car from there, and drive the 2 hours and 15 minutes up to Duluth.

For affordable car rentals, I recommend using Kayak. Over the past few years of traveling, I have discovered that this platform consistently shows the best car rental prices! Thus, it’s my go-to when I’m planning a road trip.

To search for a rental car in Duluth or Minneapolis, use the handy dandy search box below.

Minnesota North Shore Itinerary Overview

To help you get a better idea of what your North Shore trip might look like, here’s my ideal itinerary.

• Duluth — 1 night
• Grand Marais — 2 nights

On the drive up from Duluth to Grand Marais, you’ll make several stops at cool MN North Shore destinations, like Tettegouche State Park and Father Baraga’s Cross Historical Marker.

During your full day in Grand Marais, you’ll drive up to Grand Portage State park and see the tallest waterfall in Minnesota, as well as hike up to one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the area (if you’re into hiking, that is!).

After Grand Marais, it’s time to make your way back to Duluth for one last night in the area. When you get to Duluth, I have some great recommendations on top tourist spots to visit and the best local restaurants for fantastic eats!

Duluth, Minnesota

If you’re someone who already has their own vehicle and is not flying into one of the destinations mentioned above, then I recommend starting your Minnesota North Shore road trip in the vibrant city of Duluth.

Hands down, this is one of my favorite destinations in Minnesota. While you won’t be spending too much time here, as most of this road trip focuses on interesting points-of-interest and destinations along the North Shore, Duluth still has a ton of cool things to offer travelers and tourists.

When you’re making your way through Duluth, I highly recommend making a short stop at Canal Park.

This is the main tourist part of the city where you can walk along piers, check out the Aerial Lift Bridge, Duluth North Pier Lighthouse, stroll down the Lakewalk (aka Duluth’s boardwalk along Lake Superior), visit the Lake Superior Marine Museum, and eat at all the delicious restaurants in this area.

Depending on where you start your trip from, you might want to spend one night in Duluth. These are my favorite Duluth accommodations:

• Canal Park Lodge (a personal favorite among me and my family)
• Hostel Du Nord
• Park Point Marina Inn

Duluth → Grand Marais

The drive from Duluth to Grand Marais is about 2 hours in total, so I recommend starting this journey early in the morning to get a full day of seeing the amazing North Shore. (This is why it’s a rather good idea to spend one night in Duluth.)

Though most of this drive will be along Highway 61, there’s a slight detour I want you to take in order to make the most of your North Shore road trip — jumping off Highway 61 onto the Old North Shore Rd and then making your way along North Shore Scenic Drive (called Scenic Dr on the map). You won’t be disappointed in the Lake Superior views you get from this road!

In addition to the lovely Scenic Drive, here are some other great stops you should add to your Minnesota North Shore road trip itinerary when driving from Duluth to Grand Marais.

Gooseberry Falls State Park

Gooseberry Falls is a very popular stop along the MN North Shore. Why? Because this tourist destination is absolutely stunning and great for everybody; families, couples, solo travelers, and hikers alike.

But the real attraction is the giant 3-part waterfall nestled among the beautiful trees in Gooseberry Falls State Park.

Gooseberry Falls, which is the name of the waterfall, attracts thousands of visitors each year due to its close proximity to Duluth. And no wonder! It’s gorgeous, and well worth a stop on your Minnesota North Shore road trip.

*Tip: You will need a state park vehicle pass to visit Gooseberry Falls State Park. I recommend buying one online from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources . More tips like this below.

Split Rock Lighthouse

Another classic stop up the North Shore, Split Rock Lighthouse is hands down one of the most photogenic and beautiful lighthouses I’ve ever come across.

Perched on the edge of a giant jagged cliff, Split Rock Lighthouse is a cheerful yellow beacon against a background of deep blue skies and the never-ending Lake Superior.

While it used to serve a purpose in steering ships away from the dangerous rocks of the coastline and guiding them through the stormy waters of Lake Superior, Split Rock Lighthouse closed as a working lighthouse in 1969.

To ensure this historical destination did not fall into disarray, it was purchased by State of Minnesota in 1971 and transferred to the Minnesota Historical Society, which restored to its former historic 1920s appearance.

Then, in 2011, this remarkable lighthouse was designated as a National Historic Landmark. And for the last few decades, it has been one of the top tourist destinations in Minnesota! Thus, it’s highly worth a visit when making your way up the North Shore.

Palisade Head

Want to get the most incredible views of Lake Superior and its teal-blue waters that never seem to end? Make your way up to Palisade Head!

Don’t forget to bring a camera or your phone, because — WOW! — Palisade Head is one of the most gorgeous destinations along Minnesota’s North Shore and you will no doubt be stunned by the views.

In addition to a camera, don’t forget your common sense. What do I mean by that?

Well, Palisade Head currently has no barricades, fences, or walls to keep you (or your loved ones) from falling down the rocky cliffside. Make sure you watch your footing and step carefully down the rocks to avoid taking a tumble over the edge.

Though the safety of Palisade Head is questionable, this place is totally worth it! Don’t miss out.

Tettegouche State Park

Love hiking and going on walks? Then Tettegouche State Park is a must-do attraction on your Minnesota North Shore road trip!

One of my favorite state parks in the area, Tettegouche State Park features beautiful cascading waterfalls, rivers and creeks weaving through the landscape, breathtaking views of the surrounding forests, and easy-to-follow hiking trails that make it simple to discover what this state park has to offer.

Some great waterfalls to discover in Tettegouche State Park include:

• Two Step Falls
• Cascade Falls
• Illgen Falls

Sugarloaf Cove Nature Reserve

Personally, this is one of my favorite stops when on a Minnesota North Shore road trip! Sugarloaf Cove is a pristine nature reserve that has a guided nature walks, showcases gorgeous preservation and restoration of the North Shore, and ridiculously cool geological formations that’ll have you in awe.

When visiting Sugarloaf Cove Nature Reserve, I highly recommend walking out to the incredibly scenic Sugarloaf Point! You won’t be disappointed. (The trees and views of Lake Superior are amazing!)

Father Baraga’s Cross Historical Marker

The story behind Father Baraga and how he impacted the region of Northern Minnesota is so interesting! Born in what is now Slovenia, Father Baraga journeyed to the area in 1830 as a Roman Catholic missionary to minister the Ottawa and Ojibwe tribes, as well as the later immigrant miners of Michigan.

Even cooler, Father Baraga was a grammarian of Native American languages and spoke eight different tongues and wrote the first book in the Ottawa language!

This made him especially impactful among the native communities, as could best give them his healing services and medical provisions (more so than his minister services, as those were not likely needed among the Native American tribes).

Anyways, among the many hurdles that Father Baraga had to deal with, one of the biggest was Lake Superior itself.

One day, Father Baraga heard that a small Ojibwe village near Grand Portage was suffering from a possible epidemic, so he and his native guide – Lewis – boarded a birch-bark canoe and embarked on a 40-some-mile journey across the treacherous Lake Superior.

During this journey, a fretful storm and its wild waves threatened to throw them overboard into the grey-black waters. Father Baraga prayed ceaselessly and, in the end, they two were blown into the mouth of the Cross River.

This is where you’ll find the now tall granite cross marker, which was once just a simple wooden cross that Father Baraga erected to say his thanks to his Lord!

Personally, my mom and I loved stopping here on our Minnesota North Shore road trip! She particularly loved learning about Father Baraga’s story, as well as hunting the nearby beach for agates.

Cross River Falls

Just a short walk away from Father Baraga’s Historical Cross Marker is the Cross River Falls!

A classic waterfall stop along Minnesota’s North Shore, Cross River Falls is known to be one of the most convenient waterfalls on this road trip, as you can basically see the whole of it from the road!

However, I recommend making a quick stop in the parking and walking to the viewing area. This is where you’ll get the best view of Cross River Falls as they tumble down the rocks and make their way towards Lake Superior!

Alternatively, you can walk here from Father Baraga’s Cross, which has ample amount of parking space, as no one really stops here when on a Minnesota North Shore road trip.

Hidden Falls

Located on the map as Hidden Falls Trailhead – East, this is one of my FAVORITE waterfalls located along Minnesota’s North Shore! Mainly because it’s underrated and under-visited by North Shore visitors.

Not to mention, Hidden Falls is seriously stunning! This waterfall cuts through ancient lava bedrock, creating a gorgeous gorge where the water snakes through to cascade down a tall rock face, making its way to the giant Lake Superior.

My favorite part though is definitely uncovering the various views of the deep caverns and gorges where the Temperance River has molded and sculpted the rock into smooth formations and deep potholes. It’s truly something to behold!

Temperance River Falls

When visiting Hidden Falls, don’t forget to cross the road and walk down the Temperance River walkway!

You’ll see some more pretty waterfalls, as well as some great views of Lake Superior. You might even see some local fishermen (and fisherwomen) tossing their lines in the river and hoping for a fresh catch!

Cascade River State Park

Another fantastic state park to stop at on your North Shore trip, Cascade River State Park features beautiful waterfalls that are really easy to get to (just a simple short hike/walk) and lovely views of the surrounding wooded areas.

Additionally, Cascade River State Park holds one of the most expansive viewpoints on the North Shore — Lookout Mountain. While this moderately-rated hike may be tough for some, the views are worth the effort to get here!

Grand Marais, Minnesota

After your first full day of seeing some of the most spectacular stops along the North Shore, it’s time to base yourself in the cutest little town in Minnesota — Grand Marais!

I LOVE this little town, even if it gets jam-packed with tourists in the summer and fall months!

Grand Marais has some of the best local shops, a beautiful lighthouse that’s well worth a walk out to, lovely beaches where you and the family can hunt for agates, quaint eateries perfect for grabbing a delicious meal at, and phenomenal local breweries that serve up awesome beers, ciders, and more.

Additionally, Grand Marais has some lovely accommodations to stay at when you visit the North Shore! Here are my favorites:

• East Bay Suites
• The Lighthouse

Additionally, the Cascade Lodge and Solbakken Resort On Superior are lovely places to stay. However, they are not located in Grand Marais; both are just a bit down south of Grand Marais on the North Shore.

As mentioned above, I recommend staying in Grand Marais for two nights!

Alternatively, you can stay for one night in Grand Marais and another night at a different accommodation along the North Shore. There are some truly beautiful places to stay in this region of Minnesota, so find the one you like and book it!

(Psst, I always use Booking.com , Expedia , or Kayak to search for great accommodations!)

Best Things to Do in Grand Marais, Minnesota

Aside from the fabulous accommodations in Grand Marais, there are even more fabulous things to do that’ll no doubt keep you occupied for hours!

Here are my favorite attractions, sites to see, and things to do in Grand Marais:

• Visit Artist Point and walk out to the Grand Marais Lighthouse.
• Wander around the Lake Superior Trading Post and find a cool souvenir.
• Have a cheeky donut at World’s Best Donut (only open in the summer season).
• Stroll through downtown and visit some local shops.
• Have a cold beer at some local brewpubs, Voyageur Brewing Company and Gun Flint Tavern.
• Munch on some tacos and burritos at Hungry Hippo Tacos. (Psst, they can make any taco or burrito vegan!)

Just make sure to get an early start on your day when doing these activities in the summer, as Grand Marais gets incredibly packed during this time of year!

Grand Marais → Grand Portage State Park

After spending your first in Grand Marais, it’s time to wake up early, feeling fresh and ready to make your way up to Grand Portage State Park!

This is one of my favorite sections of the North Shore, as it is far less touristy and packed than other parts, such as Gooseberry Falls or Palisade Head.

Not to mention, there are the several little pull-outs and off-roads that take you some of the most beautiful views of Lake Superior and the surrounding landscape. Safe to say, you won’t be disappointed making your way from Grand Marais to Grand Portage!

So, what are the top spots and tourist stops on this part of Minnesota’s North Shore?

My recommendations are Devil’s Kettle in Judge CR Magney State Park, Grand Portage town and the Grand Portage National Monument, Mt. Josephine, and, finally, Grand Portage State Park! Let’s dig into each of these spots individually and why they are worth your time when doing a Minnesota North Shore road trip.

Devil’s Kettle (Judge CR Magney State Park)

One of my favorite hikes in Minnesota and a must-do when on a road trip up the North Shore!

Devil’s Kettle is a mysterious waterfall where half of the falls tumble down cliffs into the giant Lake Superior, while the other half seems to disappear down a deep black hole nestled into the rocks.

For years, scientists were baffled by the hole and were unsure as to where the water went. However, in 2017, they uncovered the mystery … the water simply rejoins another smaller river somewhere downstream!

While that discovery may not be exciting or mind-boggling, Devil’s Kettle is still a unique destination along Minnesota’s North Shore! And it’s worth a stop when visiting this region of MN. Not to mention, the walk to the main part of the falls is so pretty. You won’t be disappointed!

That said, when visiting Devil’s Kettle, it’s important to note that this hike includes several hundred steps (200+) you have to walk down and then back up.

Grand Portage National Monument

Interested in visiting a national historic site that was used by Native Americans (mainly the Ojibwe tribe), fur traders, and explorers alike? Then you will love Grand Portage National Monument !

A remarkable site to visit on Minnesota’s North Shore, this national site transports visitors back in time to when the Ojibwe (aka Chippewa) tapped maple trees every spring, fished in the clear waters of Lake Superior, and harvested wild rice from the robust lands.

Alongside the Native Americans, French voyageurs and European traders came from across the pond and braved the harsh North Shore winters to trap and collect furs, as well as exchange goods and services with the local tribes.

Even crazier… this was well before the United States and Canada even existed. How wild is that?

This unique history is why I highly recommend stopping here for a couple hours when road tripping up the North Shore!

Mt. Josephine

Starting from Mt. Josephine Trailhead, this hiking route takes you up one of the best viewpoints along the North Shore! If you’re into hiking and walking, I highly recommend making your way up to the top of this (rather small) mountain.

While the hike is moderately challenging, the views of small islands dotting the shoreline, vibrant trees blanketing the lush landscape, and rocky cliffs cutting through the deep blue waters of Lake Superior are absolutely worth the effort to get to the top.

I mean… I just let the photos speak for themselves. (And then let you lace up your hiking shoes to get your butt up there!)

Grand Portage State Park

The last stop on the North Shore is Grand Portage State Park! And it’s just a short 45 minute drive from Grand Marais, which you won’t even notice after stopping at all the other great spots along this strip of the North Shore.

This awesome state park in Minnesota features the tallest waterfall in the state, aka High Falls on the Pigeon River!

Unlike other hikes mentioned in this Minnesota North Shore road trip guide, the route to the waterfall is a combination of glorious wooden walkways and hard tar paths, which means anyone can easily partake in this walk!

In addition to the crazy awesome waterfall, Grand Portage State Park features vibrant wildlife (including some very friendly and not-afraid-of-humans squirrels), stunning foliage (it’s magnificent in the fall when the leaves are changing color), and beautiful landscapes.

Grand Portage → Grand Marais → Duluth

After visiting Grand Portage State Park, it’s time to head back to Grand Marais for your last night in this quaint town (and depending on your schedule, maybe your last night along Minnesota’s North Shore!).

As mentioned above, the drive from Grand Portage to Grand Marais is about 45 minutes, and the drive from Grand Marais to Duluth is around 2 hours.

Which sites you stop at on the way up the North Shore and which sites you stop at on the way back to Duluth is completely up to you. Additionally, depending on how much time you have, you can pick and choose which sites you visit, as some might not be right for you!

Ultimately, this Minnesota North Shore itinerary is flexible and you can mold it into any schedule that is right for your trip!

All in all, the North Shore in Minnesota is one of my favorite regions in the state and one of the best places to go on a road trip in the USA!

Whether you’re interested in visiting waterfalls, quaint little towns, hiking trails, or simply soaking up the remote wilderness of northern Minnesota, the North Shore is a great place to do so.

Tell me, are you planning a Minnesota North Shore road trip, or have you ever considered visiting this area of the United States before? Share your thoughts in the comment section below!

Not sure what to check out next? Readers love these posts:

• Experiencing Voyageurs National Park in Minnesota (aka the most underrated national park in the USA)
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Love this post on how to plan a road trip up the North Shore in Minnesota? Pin it!

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Tracking Down Minnesota’s Lost Coast

Photo by Ryan Rogers

In   late June, when North Shore campgrounds fill every night, my girls and I leave home in search of a freshwater sea that dwarfs the Great Lakes. For a week, we’ll road-trip lonely highways through northwestern Minnesota along the lost shores of Glacial Lake Agassiz. By the time we reach our first night’s stay at Big Stone Lake State Park, on the South Dakota border, the 90-degree heat will have rendered Ella, age 6, and Grace, 11, sweaty-browed and surly.  

In the park’s shady and mostly empty campground, I unwind from the drive by listening to orioles sing and gazing across Big Stone Lake at pretty hillocks furred in wild grass. Big Stone Lake is the headwaters of the Minnesota River, though its long valley was gouged by the Glacial River Warren, the torrent that drained Lake Agassiz. Lake Agassiz itself began a short way north in the hamlet of Brown’s Valley, where we drive in the morning.

Brown’s Valley is a dry gap between the Red and Minnesota rivers. On the north side of town, water flows toward Hudson Bay, while on the south side spillage seeks the Gulf of Mexico. For millennia, this natural bridge for westward travelers obviated the need for river fords and served as a gathering place. Even before then, as the last ice age waned, meltwater dammed up at Brown’s Valley and formed Lake Agassiz, bigger than any freshwater body presently on earth.

We eat sandwiches at Sam Brown Memorial Park, named after a local character known as the Prairie Paul Revere. An old pickup parks, and out steps a short man with a formidable salt-and-pepper mustache. Richard Johnson asks if we want to see the town’s museum, housed on-site in a weathered oak log cabin. I sure do. Some small-town museums resemble marginal flea markets. Others house singular artifacts folksily curated. This is the latter type. Johnson shows us sepia photos revealing an extinct landscape, the horizon-spanning tallgrass prairie. A glass case contains gorgeous Dakota beadwork, including a knife sheath he claims contains 1 million beads.

Richard points out a wooden wheelchair that belonged to Sam Brown, the son of a Dakota chief’s daughter and the town’s namesake white settler. In 1866, Brown undertook a 150-mile horseback ride to intercept an erroneous message that could have sparked another war with the Dakota. The 21-year-old succeeded but got bushwhacked by a spring blizzard that froze his legs. He never walked again.

On our second morning, we drive north on a pretty route side-walling the valleys that cup the Big Stone and Traverse lakes. Traffic is sparse, and the occasional opposite-lane driver usually waves. We look for breakfast in the tidy town of Wheaton, walking by the Rusty Anchor Bar and Fuzzy Cheeks Boutique inbound for the Country Corner Cafe, where the waitress dumps fresh coffee in my mug whenever it drops below three-quarters full. I eavesdrop on the longest table in the restaurant, populated by a changing cast of locals. They discuss the price of a bale of hay, currently $12. When my bill comes, it’s about two bales, or a modest $25.

We head toward a series of Agassiz beaches outlining the lake’s varying levels over several thousand years. Back home, I’d met with a University of Minnesota Duluth geology professor for tips on finding Agassiz. Howard Mooers indulged me with lidar imagery depicting the littoral mounds of wave-deposited sand as prominent ridges, warning they’re subtler in person.  

Vectoring northwest on Highway 9, we reach the first beach at Herman, a small town best known for its 1990s campaign to attract mates for its 78 bachelors. Oprah Winfrey profiled the effort that led to a couple of marriages. The town is also home to Agassiz’s highest beach, described by geologist Warren Upham, who named Lake Agassiz, as “a remarkable deposit of beach gravel and sand” like you’d find along the ocean. Jacked on coffee and envisioning Duluth’s Park Point dunes rising incongruously from farmland, I shout at the girls, “Look for the beach!” I’m manically scanning the pancake plains, not to miss the vegetated lump that so impressed Upham.

Different beaches denoting different epochs follow in the villages of Norcross, Tintah, and Campbell. These tiny towns started as water stops along the railroad, which followed gravel beach ridges to avoid the rich lakebed soil, once covered by wet prairie. Settlers plowed the prairies away and installed tiling to shed excess water from some of the richest soil on earth, delivered eons ago as silt by glacial melt-rivers gushing into Lake Agassiz.

Northeast in Rothsay stands the world’s largest prairie chicken, a delightfully kitschy roadside statue celebrating the final refuges for Minnesota’s prairie chickens. I’ve never seen a real one, and we’re too late for the birds’ sonorous spring mating ritual, but maybe we’ll rustle one up driving a series of shrinking gravel roads to the Western Prairie Scientific Natural Area. We walk into trailless grassland speckled with yellow lady’s slippers. Bobolinks, clad in tuxedo plumage, sing from plant stalks. When we tire in the heat, I sprawl with my head on a grass-covered pillow of gopher mound. A showy milkweed grows overhead, rich perfume wafting from its bloom. The flower consists of offset dials of five pronged petals, like a combination lock to a lost world, hints of which tremble in the grasses that from this low angle might reach the horizon.

After a night in Buffalo River State Park, the skies open on two days of rain. Water hasn’t fallen for a month, and the land is in need, but it complicates our agenda. Mooers suggested I trek up Frenchman’s Bluff, another state natural area and one of the highest points in northwestern Minnesota—perhaps not something to brag about, though the modest prominence does have a dreamy-sounding plant species named after it. I start up during a break in the rain. Initially, I think I’m looking at surveyor’s flags, so bright are the wood lily blooms, like stars of magma in contrast to the sky, currently the color and texture of a wet sock. The plant I’m looking for, though, is a Frenchman’s Bluff moonwort, a tiny fern found only five places worldwide. Humid air stirs as a low cloud sweeps off the Agassiz flats, snags against the hill, and dumps rain. Water is sloshing in my boots by the time I reach the camper.

In nearby Fertile, I drive by Opdahl’s Donuts and pull a U-turn. It’s an old-timey bakery where I buy a pound of cake donuts and three slices of pie, chocolate for the girls and rhubarb for me. We park in the town’s campground and are lulled to sleep by the patter of rain on the camper’s metal roof.

Our penultimate camp lies at the end of a narrow county road crossing yesterday’s parched fields now ponded with rainwater. On a summer Saturday in Old Mill State Park, just a handful of campsites are in use, including the one next to us, occupied by a chrome-bumpered blue school bus. Steve Foldoe drove this 1979 International when it hauled kids, before buying and retrofitting it into an RV he and his wife, Naomi, named Kramer, after the television character whose presence always generated a buzz. Naomi tells me to come to the park in September, when the eponymous mill is fired up and grinds out bags of what she says is the best flour you’ll ever taste.

The rain has finally quit, so the girls and I walk to the mill. They’ve barely been out of the camper for two days and sprint about and shriek with pent-up energy. That evening and the next morning, we walk miles of trails wending along the Middle River, crossed by a stone-stanchioned suspension bridge built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The bridge is a miniature version of the iconic span in Jay Cooke State Park, except here we have it to ourselves. The river water resembles strong tea and flows over a stony bed deposited by Agassiz waves.

Driving Highway 59 north toward our last camp in Roseau’s town park, I see something I’ve heard about but never encountered—hundreds of showy lady’s slippers blooming in the ditch. I stop on the shoulder to marvel at the ridiculously large flowers. Now is the time to savor what’s left of our trip together. In the morning, we will make one more stop before returning home.

After several millennia, 8,500 years ago, Lake Agassiz effectively dried up. Its remnants persist as the Lake of the Woods, Lake Winnipeg, Rainy, and Red lakes. Near Upper Red Lake, in Big Bog State Recreation Area, a mile-long boardwalk gives access to another Agassiz leftover. In low spots with impermeable soils, water never fully drained, and the peat moss that began growing 5,000 years ago has risen like a pillow on the land, wicking up Agassiz’s ancient water until the peat has become 20-feet-thick. Agassiz may be gone, but its legacy defines this corner of Minnesota.

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