North Shore Scenic Drive

Nestled along the breathtaking shores of Lake Superior, Gooseberry Falls State Park is a natural gem that offers visitors a captivating blend of cascading waterfalls, lush forests, rugged shoreline, and outdoor adventures. Located on Minnesota's North Shore Scenic Drive, this state park is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and anyone seeking serenity in a pristine natural setting.

The park is most renowned for its stunning waterfalls. Gooseberry Falls State Park boasts a series of cascades and falls along the Gooseberry River, each with its unique charm. The main attractions are:
1. Lower Falls: The Lower Falls is the closest to the parking area, making it easily accessible for all visitors. It features a broad and picturesque cascade that flows into the river.
2. Middle Falls: Just a short walk upstream from the Lower Falls, the Middle Falls is a series of stepped cascades that create a mesmerizing natural spectacle.
3. Upper Falls: The Upper Falls is the most impressive of the three main falls, with a drop of approximately 30 feet. A viewing platform provides an ideal vantage point for admiring this majestic waterfall.

Gooseberry Falls State Park offers a network of hiking trails that cater to hikers of all skill levels. Some of the popular trails include:
• Gooseberry Falls Trail: This easy trail takes you on a loop around the main waterfalls, offering close-up views and excellent photo opportunities.
• River View Trail: A moderate hike that follows the riverbank and provides scenic views of the falls and the Gooseberry River.
• Lake View Trail: For those seeking stunning vistas of Lake Superior, this trail leads to overlooks with panoramic views of the lake.
• Northern Lights Trail: A longer, more challenging trail that takes you through a variety of landscapes, including forests, rocky outcrops, and serene streams.
• Gitchi-Gami State Trail: This paved trail connects Gooseberry Falls State Park to other parks and scenic sites along Lake Superior's shoreline, offering opportunities for biking and hiking.

The park features an informative visitor center where you can learn about the park's geology, flora, fauna, and cultural history. Rangers and naturalists are available to provide information and answer questions. There are both drive-in and walk-in campsites, making it a great place for camping under the stars. Additionally, there are picnic areas with tables and fire rings, perfect for enjoying a meal in the great outdoors.

The park's diverse habitats make it an excellent place for observing wildlife and birdwatching. Keep an eye out for white-tailed deer, foxes, squirrels, and a variety of bird species, including warblers and raptors.

The park is beautiful year-round. In the winter, it transforms into a winter wonderland, offering opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice climbing. Whether you visit in the summer to enjoy the falls and hiking trails or in the winter for a snowy adventure, Gooseberry Falls State Park showcases the natural beauty and tranquility that Minnesota's North Shore is known for. It's a place where you can reconnect with nature and create lasting memories in any season.

Perched atop the rugged cliffs of Minnesota's North Shore, Split Rock Lighthouse State Park offers visitors a unique blend of pristine natural landscapes and rich historical significance. This park, located about 20 miles northeast of Two Harbors, is renowned for its iconic lighthouse, breathtaking views of Lake Superior, and a variety of outdoor activities.
• Split Rock Lighthouse: The park's namesake and most iconic feature is the Split Rock Lighthouse. This historic lighthouse was constructed in response to the tragic Mataafa Storm of 1905, which claimed multiple ships on Lake Superior's treacherous waters. The lighthouse's construction was completed in 1910, and it continued to guide mariners safely until 1969 when modern navigation methods rendered it obsolete. Today, it stands as a testament to maritime history and offers tours for visitors interested in learning about the lighthouse keepers' lives and the challenges of Lake Superior's waters.
• Panoramic Views: The park offers some of the most spectacular views of Lake Superior. The vantage points along the cliffs provide visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of the expansive lake, offering opportunities for photography and contemplation.
• Hiking Trails: Split Rock Lighthouse State Park boasts several hiking trails, including the Split Rock River Loop, Day Hill Trail, and the Gitchi-Gami State Trail. These trails wind through lush forests and offer glimpses of the lake, waterfalls, and unique geological features.
• Picnicking: The park has picnic areas with tables, making it an ideal spot to enjoy a meal with a view of Lake Superior.
• Camping: The park offers campsites for both tents and RVs, providing visitors with the opportunity to stay overnight in this serene natural setting.
• Birdwatching: Bird enthusiasts will appreciate the park's diverse birdlife, including bald eagles, peregrine falcons, and migratory songbirds. The park is part of the Lake Superior Birding Trail.
• Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing: In the winter months, the park transforms into a winter wonderland. Visitors can enjoy snowshoeing and cross-country skiing along the park's trails.
• Geocaching: The park hosts a geocaching program, allowing participants to explore the park while searching for hidden treasures.

The park's visitor center provides information about the park's history, geology, and recreational opportunities. It's an excellent place to start your visit and gather maps and brochures.

The Boundary Waters Canoe Wilderness Area, a pristine and expansive wilderness in northern Minnesota, spans over a million acres of untouched natural beauty. Renowned for its labyrinth of interconnected lakes and rivers, it beckons outdoor enthusiasts to embark on paddling adventures amidst serene waters and rugged landscapes. This remote wilderness provides a haven for those seeking solitude, offering exceptional opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, camping, and wildlife observation. As a Dark Sky Sanctuary, it also provides unparalleled stargazing experiences. With strict conservation measures in place, the BWCA remains a symbol of untouched wilderness, inviting visitors to disconnect from modern life and immerse themselves in the tranquil and unspoiled heart of nature.

The Grand Portage National Monument in Minnesota is a captivating historical site that preserves and showcases the vibrant cultural heritage of the Ojibwe people and the North West Company's fur trading operations. Located along the picturesque shores of Lake Superior, this national monument features meticulously reconstructed structures, including the Great Hall and various fur trade buildings, providing visitors with a vivid glimpse into the bustling fur trading era of the late 18th century. The centerpiece of the monument is the 8.5-mile Grand Portage Trail, which historically served as a vital link between Lake Superior and inland fur trading routes, marked by a steep climb to the Pigeon River's high falls. The monument offers educational programs, cultural demonstrations, and interactive exhibits that celebrate the rich history and enduring traditions of the Ojibwe people and the fur trade era, making it a fascinating and educational destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The Grand Portage Reservation in northeastern Minnesota encompasses a stunning natural landscape and holds deep historical and cultural significance. Covering approximately 61,000 acres, it is home to the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, whose rich heritage is interwoven with the region's history. The reservation's stunning scenery includes pristine lakes, dense forests, and the iconic Grand Portage National Monument, which preserves the legacy of fur trading and Ojibwe traditions. This vibrant community is dedicated to preserving its cultural identity and natural resources while offering visitors the chance to explore the wilderness, learn about indigenous history, and engage in cultural experiences, making it a unique and enriching destination in Minnesota.

Grand Portage State Park is a natural gem known for its stunning landscapes and historical significance. Covering 278 acres, the park boasts breathtaking vistas of Lake Superior, forested trails, and the picturesque High Falls of the Pigeon River, the tallest waterfall in the state. Visitors can hike along well-maintained trails to enjoy panoramic views, explore the history of the area at the Grand Portage National Monument, or embark on outdoor adventures like camping and picnicking. This park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it a popular destination for those seeking outdoor recreation and a deeper connection to the region's history.

The North Shore Scenic Drive offers an excellent opportunity for stargazing and possibly witnessing the mesmerizing Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. Here's what you need to know about stargazing on this scenic route:
1. Dark Sky Sanctuary: The North Shore area is designated as a Dark Sky Sanctuary, which means it has minimal light pollution, making it an ideal location for stargazing. The absence of city lights allows you to see the night sky in all its splendor.
2. Best Time for Stargazing: The best time for stargazing along the North Shore Scenic Drive is during the fall, winter, and early spring months when the nights are longer and the skies tend to be clearer. Late evening and early morning hours are generally the best times to view celestial wonders.
3. Northern Lights: While not guaranteed, the North Shore is one of the prime locations in the United States for witnessing the Northern Lights. These dazzling natural light displays occur primarily in the fall and winter months when geomagnetic activity is at its peak. Keep an eye on space weather forecasts and aurora alerts to increase your chances of catching this extraordinary phenomenon.
4. Equipment: You don't need a telescope or expensive equipment to enjoy stargazing on the North Shore. Bring a pair of binoculars, a comfortable reclining chair, and a warm blanket to lie on. You can also use stargazing apps on your smartphone to identify constellations and planets.
5. Ideal Spots: To maximize your stargazing experience, consider visiting specific locations along the North Shore Scenic Drive:
• Tettegouche State Park: With its serene lakeshores and minimal light pollution, this park is an excellent spot for stargazing.
• Split Rock Lighthouse State Park: The lighthouse offers a fantastic backdrop for stargazing, and the elevated cliffs provide clear views of the night sky.
• Judge C.R. Magney State Park: Known for its Devil's Kettle waterfall, this park also offers excellent stargazing opportunities.
• Superior National Forest: Numerous pull-offs and overlooks along the drive offer wide-open views of the night sky.
6. Be Prepared: Dress warmly, as North Shore evenings can be chilly, even in the summer. Be patient and allow your eyes to adjust to the darkness for optimal stargazing.

Stargazing on the North Shore Scenic Drive in Minnesota offers a chance to connect with the universe and witness some of nature's most captivating celestial displays. Whether you're hoping to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights or simply want to enjoy the brilliance of the night sky, this scenic route provides an unforgettable stargazing adventure.

Start at the Duluth Lift Bridge at the Canal Park. There are plenty of fun things to do to start off your journey. Visit the Marine Museum, view sculptures and public art, explore shopping and restaurants. You can enter the Lakewalk from several points in Canal Park to walk along the shore. Watch the massive ships go through the canal. If you want to make a quick detour for a day trip, ride a train to Two Harbors.

As you return to drive along the byway, stop by to see the water at Cobblestone Beach and the McQuade Harbor Rest Area for skipping stones, agate-hunting, ship watching, and picnicking. Drive along the byway to Knife River where you can set sail on Lake Superior when you visit the DNR marina. When you reach Larsmont, try to spot the Little Red Schoolhouse, a hub for local residents.

Soon you will reach the town of Two Harbors. Visit the 3M Birthplace Museum, first home of Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing and the Edna G. Tugboat, a historic tugboat museum. There are also many hiking trails and state parks in this area.

From Two Harbors to Grand Portage. Along the way, you will find a number of wilderness areas and state parks that are great for exploring Lake Superior and Lake Superior National Forest. When you reach Grand Portage, learn more about the Chippewa Native Americans at the Grand Portage Reservation and keep an eye out for sights of Canada.