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Pack immense culture, history and natural beauty into a short trip with the North Shore Scenic Drive. This idyllic byway hikes alongside Minnesota’s Lake Superior shoreline, from Duluth to the Canadian border. It contains pleasantly accessible adventures and experiences, including stunning natural formations and charming coastal towns, making it perfect for those after a mixture of relaxation and recreation. Our itinerary takes you through some of the most memorable stops on the road, ensuring you thoroughly soak up the spirit and beauty of the region.
How Long is the North Shore Drive?
Starting in Duluth, Minnesota, the North Shore spans approximately 150 miles of Lake Superior coastline. If you tackle it without stopping, you can reach the Canadian border in around 3 to 4 hours. However, the stops are what make this route so special. We recommend setting aside 1 or 2 days to appreciate the sights at a leisurely pace and lean into the laid-back vibes of this mesmerizing territory.
Best Time to Experience the North Shore Drive in Minnesota
There’s no wrong time for a North Shore road trip. It truly is a year-round adventure. Still, it’s important to know what you hope to get from the trip, since each season offers distinct attractions and benefits.
- Spring (April to June): Spring is a popular time to visit, thanks to its temperate weather. It’s still warm enough to enjoy outdoor activities, but not oppressively hot. Plus, the recent snowmelt means that waterfalls and rivers are surging, creating some incredible photo opportunities.
- Summer (July to September): As a lakefront route, the North Shore Scenic Drive offers a variety of refreshing water activities for summer vacationers. From swimming to kayaking to beach picnicking, there are plenty of ways to take advantage of the lake. Most businesses are fully open in the summer, too. Just know that summer is the most crowded time, so make reservations for hotel rooms and guided excursions early.
- Fall (October to November): People travel from all over the country to witness the fall foliage in this area. The blazing red, rich orange and vibrant gold hues that cover the trees will take your breath away. Since the temperatures are starting to cool down, you can also enjoy fewer crowds.
- Winter (December to March): This lakeside destination comes to life in surprising ways during the winter. From frozen waterfalls to snow-covered birch trees, there’s a lot of magic to behold along Lake Superior in the winter. You can also participate in unique snow activities, like dog sled rides and cross-country skiing. Just be aware that some areas may be closed due to weather conditions, so check the roads before you go.
In the end, no season is off limits. The North Shore Scenic Drive won’t disappoint, whichever time of year you visit.
10 Must-See Stops on the North Shore Drive in MN
Once you witness the magnetism of the North Shore, you’ll wish you could stay longer. The good news is that even if you only have 1 or 2 days, we’ve got you covered with what you’ll see on the drive. Our road trip blends peaceful moments in nature with historical experiences and thrilling adventures. Let the journey begin.
1. Witness Maritime Life, Past and Present, at Duluth’s Canal Park
Start your exploration of the North Shore in Duluth, where the waterways host active vessels and tell stories of the past. Canal Park refers to the land on either side of the canal and is the home to several landmarks and attractions. Check out the Aerial Lift Bridge to see the canal in action. This 900-ton bridge rises nearly 140 feet in the air to provide passage to massive ships. Enjoy some nautical nostalgia at the Maritime Visitor Center, where you can check out true-to-size ship models.
When you’re hungry, grab a bite at Duluth’s Grill, a casual, affordable restaurant serving comfort food made with locally sourced ingredients. If you’re traveling with little ones, they’ll enjoy the tasty kids' menu, with creative dishes like the ham and cheese kiddie skillet. Afterwards, enjoy walking off your meal along the Duluth Lakewalk, a paved trail that hugs the shore of Lake Superior.
Next, hike through diverse wildlife at Gooseberry Falls Park. Estimated drive time: 45 minutes
2. Chase Waterfalls and Natural Treasures at Gooseberry Falls State Park
If you want to stretch your legs and enjoy lush landscapes, head to Gooseberry Falls State Park. Known for its three stunning waterfalls along the Gooseberry River, it offers a variety of hiking trails to explore. The Gooseberry Falls Trail is ideal for beginners and leads you to uninterrupted views of the park’s famous water features.
Don’t leave the park without stopping by Agate Beach, which you’ll find at the mouth of Gooseberry River. If you’re with kids, they’ll love searching for the beach’s namesake quartz while you set up a shorefront picnic.
Next, see a light station that has guided sailors for over 100 years at Split Rock Lighthouse. Estimated drive time: 7 minutes
3. Visit a Sailor’s Beacon at Split Rock Lighthouse State Park
For a unique view of Lake Superior and a step back in time, visit Split Rock Lighthouse State Park. The standout structure after which the park is named sits on a 130-foot cliff. Built in 1910, the lighthouse guided mariners to shore for nearly 60 years. Today, it’s a National Historic Landmark. Guests can take the Keeper’s Tour, a 60-minute guided tour of the lighthouse and the keeper’s house, for a closer look at the significance and function of the landmark.
Enjoy a meal and miles of scenery at Palisade Head. Estimated drive time: 12 minutes
4. Picnic with a View at Palisade Head in Tettegouche State Park
Palisade Head, located inside Tettegouche State Park, is the ideal spot to pull over for a picnic. Rising more than 300 feet above Lake Superior, it offers panoramic views of the North Shore. Plus, its cliffs are a hot spot for rock climbing. So, you might just witness some brave souls scaling the rugged walls while you enjoy your food.
Visit Minnesota’s tallest waterfall at Tettegouche State Park. Estimated drive time: Only 2 minutes!
5. Reach New Heights at Tettegouche State Park
Once you’ve regained energy from your picnic, you’ll be ready for more adventure inside Tettegouche State Park. Here, you’ll find a variety of trails for hikers of all experience levels. The High Falls trail, which leads to one of the tallest waterfalls in the state, is an easy, 25-minute hike on a paved path that takes you to a viewpoint of the falls. Those looking for more panoramic views of Lake Superior can hit the Shovel Point Trail. This trail is moderately challenging, but manageable for most hikers.
Want a peaceful moment of reflection? Enjoy the seats around the fireplace at the visitor’s center, which offer views of Lake Superior. Step inside and you’ll find interpretive displays dedicated to the history and significance of the region.
Next, you’ll see a feature that feeds Lake Superior, the Temperance River. Estimated drive time: 25 minutes
6. See the Source of Lake Superior’s Waters at Temperance River State Park
Over 200 rivers feed Lake Superior. Temperance River, found in the state park by the same name, might be among the most interesting. This 39.2-mile-long river rushes through a narrow gorge before emptying out into the lake. The gorge, carved in billion-year-old igneous rock, twists and turns, creating a unique funnel for the river. You’ll find several picnic areas along the shores where you can witness the river winding its way through the gorge. If you’d like to see the feature from different vantage points, you can hike the Temperance River Falls Loop, an easy trail along the river with views of waterfalls and rapids.
When you’re ready for fun on the slopes, head to the Lutsen Mountains. Estimated drive time: 15 minutes
7. Enjoy Alpine Adventures at Lutsen Mountains
Lutsen Mountains is a playground for adults and children alike. This alpine resort offers activities year-round. During the winter, you can ski, snowboard or simply play in the powder. The resort even has a dedicated beginner’s lift and ski area, where new skiers and little ones can get their snow legs.
In the summer, the resort’s lakeside trails are perfect for biking and hiking. The beloved Summit Express Gondola runs in the summer, too, transporting guests 1,000 feet above Lake Superior. At the top, you’ll find an observation deck alongside the Summit Chalet, where you can grab a bite or a beverage. A summer visit to Lutsen Mountains also wouldn’t be complete without a run on the Alpine Slide, which takes guests down a half-mile track on a bobsled-style ride.
Next, stroll the picturesque streets of Grand Marais. Estimated drive time: 25 minutes.
8. Shop, Sightsee and Grab a Snack in Grand Marais
When you’re ready to trade in birch trees for boutiques, head to Grand Marais. This charming harbor town enjoys views of Lake Superior on one end and the Superior National Forest on the other. Its endearingly small downtown area envelops Harbor Park, a popular place to picnic and an entryway to the nearby harbor’s cobblestone beach.
Make sure to pay a visit to the Neegee, a fishing tug boat built in 1936. For over 20 years, the Neegee tug facilitated all fishing and logging activities for the area. Today, it sits on land, ready for photographs. For a more immersive historical experience, pop over to the Cook County Historical Museum. This former lightkeeper’s house contains tens of thousands of photos and artifacts from the area’s maritime and military history.
Before returning to the car, pick up a sweet treat at World’s Best Donuts, a family-owned spot serving delicious fried dough creations since 1969. The donut “kabob” is their specialty.
Next, watch a water drop that will make your jaw drop at Judge C. R. Magney State Park. Estimated drive time: 15 minutes
9. Marvel at a Mystery at Judge C. R. Magney State Park
Judge C. R. Magney State Park is home to Devil’s Kettle, a waterfall that has baffled visitors for thousands of years. The unique feature contains a river that splits off, at which point, part of its flow disappears into a pothole. The pothole’s exit point remains a mystery. There’s a 2-mile out-and-back trail that leads you to Devil’s Kettle. Be aware that you’ll climb an estimated 200 stairs to reach the site. Luckily, there are plenty of benches along the way where you can rest and gaze at the enigma.
End your trip at a state park on an Indian Reservation, Grand Portage State Park. Estimated drive time: 25 minutes
10. Enjoy Nature and Native History at Grand Portage State Park
For your final stop, you’ll explore Minnesota’s tallest waterfall, High Falls, in Grand Portage State Park. You can view the cascades from 3 viewing decks, which are perfect for snapping photographs. After you’ve had your fill of rushing water, you can head over to the Grand Portage National Monument, the site of a former fur trading post that preserves the heritage of the Ojibwe people. Murals and displays take you back in time, depicting the stories and way of life of Native Americans in the late 1700s.
You’ll find several peaceful picnic spots around the park, many with views of the Pigeon River and Canada. Don’t leave without peeking inside the visitor’s center, where a floor containing a massive turtle mural delights young travelers.
Tips for a Smooth Minnesota North Shore Scenic Drive
Adventurers love the accessibility and variety found along the North Shore All-American Scenic Drive, officially designated as one of the nation’s most exceptional roadways. It’s a route that truly lives up to its reputation. Still, there are some tips to keep in mind to ensure a smooth trip.
- Be Prepared for Variable Weather: The North Shore has a unique climate, experiencing a range of weather throughout the seasons. Spring and fall, in particular, can see unexpected and sudden changes, so be sure to pack layers.
- Watch for Wildlife on the Road: Obey speed limits and put on your brights after the sun sets. Wildlife, including bears, wolves and deer, can be active in the area, so it’s a good idea to drive slowly and stay alert.
- Expect Limited Cell Service in Some Areas: Many sections of the drive have spotty or no cell service. Download maps and directions ahead of time or use a paper Minnesota map to ensure you don’t get lost.
- Take Advantage of Scenic Pull-Offs: There are many scenic pull-offs along the drive, perfect for short breaks, photos and enjoying the views. Plan to stop frequently, as the route’s beauty is best appreciated slowly.
- Plan for Parking at Popular Stops: Popular spots like Gooseberry Falls and Split Rock Lighthouse can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Arrive early to secure parking, or visit these attractions during off-peak hours (early morning or late afternoon).
With the proper planning and gear, you’ll enjoy the beauty of the North Shore Scenic Drive without any hiccups.
Plan Your North Shore Scenic Drive in Duluth, MN with Rand McNally Maps
The North Shore is waiting for you to explore its diverse and delightful attractions. Our itinerary covers some of the most iconic North Shore Scenic Drive stops. But there are even more hidden gems to explore along the way. So keep your Minnesota atlas open in case a trailhead or cultural site calls your name.
With our road maps and atlases by your side, you’ll be able to see points of interest at your destinations, locate landmarks and get a sweeping view of what’s ahead. The drive from Duluth to the Canadian border will not disappoint, so pack your hiking boots and hunger for fun and hit the road.