If you’re a true Minnesotan, the winter’s are harsh, but as soon as the warm weather hits you’re outdoors. Whether you’re out playing golf, softball, out in the water, camping, fishing, biking, or rollerblading, you’re out there enjoying the weather before it’s gone.
However, there’s something truly spectacular about packing up the car and heading north for the weekend. Whether you’re going camping, tagging the boat along with you, or headed to your favorite Bed and Breakfast, a truly majestic place of Minnesota is none other than the North Shore.
The North Shore lies directly North of Duluth, MN, and is the road(Scenic 61) that follows the curve of Lake Superior, and will even cross over into Canada if you drive North enough. Along the coast of Lake Superior, it leaves you with wonderful camping locations with beautiful spots to hike along the road, and of course, spectacular views.
A few of my favorites along the North Shore include:
A trip to the North Shore always starts with a visit to Duluth, MN. One of the Northern Most Cities that offers your first peak at Lake Superior. A favorite amongst many is stopping into the LakeWalk, Waterfront area to watch the Suspension Bridge.
The Duluth Suspension Bridge is just one of two suspension bridges found across Minnesota. The other can be found in Stillwater, MN. It also the point of entry into Lake Superior.
Other things to do while in Duluth include:
Duluth Children’s Museum
The Edge (Edgewater Hotel & Waterpark)
Glensheen, The Historic Glensheen Mansion
Great Lakes Aquarium
Lake Superior Railroad Museum
Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center
A view of Duluth, MN from Enger Tower
After spending some time in Duluth head North towards Scenic 61 and begin your trek along the North Shore.
A few more favorites along the way:
Gooseberry Falls State Park:
This beautiful state park has these gorgeous falls, both the upper and lower falls to take in and view. Also, has various hiking paths surrounding the falls for your enjoyment. You can easily spend a half to full day in this park.
More photos:
Gooseberry Falls State Park during the fall. Another GREAT time to visit the North Shore.
Betty’s Pies
A fun diner to stop into on your trek up Scenic 61 is none other than Betty’s Pies. Stop in for a burger and fries, but the best part, of course, is the pie. Specializing in both handmade and cream pies.
Split Rock Lighthouse
Yes, the beautiful Split Rock Lighthouse falls along the North Shore. You’re able to take a tour of the lighthouse for a fee of:
$9 adults$7 seniors and college students$6 children 6-17Free for children 5 and under and MNHS members.However, there are various hiking trails found along the area with scenic views of the lighthouse including this spectacular photo opportunity (Yes, I took this photo!)Go on a Waterfall Tour
There are a variety of Waterfalls to trek down along the North Shore, just make sure to do your research ahead of time.Some waterfalls around the area include:-Split Rock Falls-Gooseberry Falls-Beaver Falls-High Falls – Baptism River- 2 Step Falls – Baptism River
- Manitou Falls – Manitou River
- Caribou Falls – Caribou River
- Cross River Falls – Cross River
- Temperance River Cascades- Cascades – Cascades River
- Cascade Falls – Cascades River
- Devil’s Kettle Falls – Brule River
- High Falls – Pigeon RiverBut the best part of trekking up to the North Shore is being able to stop along the way with what catches your eye. Go on a beautiful hike, take in the Coast line of Lake Superior, or chase Waterfalls, there’s a little something for everyone.
The map of the Minnesota North Shore on behalf of North Shore Visitor
