North Shore on a Time Budget
Time is limited and there is much to see and do on Minnesota’s North Shore. How do you fit it all in? Well, this inland coastal highway (MN-61) on Lake Superior (largest lake in the world no big) is ripe with state parks, forests, waysides, and the views only get better the further north you travel. Here are five state parks that you should not miss, even if you only have an hour.
- Grand Portage
This state park is one minute from the Canadian border. If you miss the turn you will hit the customs office so pay attention. Also, this far north the shores of Superior cascade at levels equivalent to many maritime coasts. Comparable to Maine, Oregon, and SE Alaska. This park is right on the Pigeon River and has a great hike to Minnesota’s highest waterfall High Falls. The waterfall hike is an easy mile out and back with an opportunity to continue hiking 3.5 miles deeper into the park. The views on both hikes are amazing and the further hike allows for chilling at a smaller waterfall. No camping or other technical activities are offered in the summer, but bring a camera and binoculars. You may be joined by black bears, beavers, eagles, and other north woods fowl.
2. Judge C.R. Magney
Magney is also quite a drive, but offers spectacular camping, views, and hiking. The Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) zig-zags right through the state park and the two trails align at the really rad Devil’s Kettle Falls. Named for the unique shape of the rocks cut by water. The hike is 2 miles round trip and the campground is well maintained. Also, the grandiose Naniboujou lodge is located just across the highway from the park entrance and is worth a peek. If they have a room or you want to ball out for tea don’t hold back. Treat yourself to the most expensive wifi free North Shore thrills in this Gatsby style dining lounge.
3. Cascade River State Park
Just south of Grand Marais and north of Lutsen the name of this park says it all. A Cascading river between the closest thing we call mountains in the Minnesota. This park offers spectacular views of the lake, fall colors, and waterfalls. Camping is tucked away from the shore and is just off the SHT. This park also has some nice mountain/gravel biking trails and roads. If it is raining (or not) take refuge at local roastery and coffee shop Fika. They have a phenomenal coffee bar in the town of Lutsen and they offer a true Scandinavian fika experience.
4. Temperance River
This river is at a much lower elevation than the previously mentioned parks and is flatlander friendly. Camping is offered on the shore of Lake Superior and is breathtaking. The Hiking Club Trail cruises up the river about a mile to Upper Falls and circles into the aspen stands and rolls back down stream. In my opinion, spend your time on the rocky shore of Lake Superior here and save your waterfalls for other parks.
5. George H Crosby Manitou
RUSTIC. Crosby Manitou is easily the most primitive state park in Minnesota. First, you have to cruise down a dirt road from nearby Finland and there are no real structures. Water comes from a well and there is one pit toilet at the trail head. Campsites are scarce and mostly backpack in off the SHT. The hikes are dramatic with 150 ft elevation gains and many little peaks. The views, birding, and hiking are second to none. Pro-tip if you’re hardcore (or your car is) cruise the back roads of the area, you will find nothing but awesomeness.
There you have it. If time is not of great concern then slow your roll. Take in each one of these amazing places north of the MN 61 and HWY 1 split. Throw on some Bob Dylan and spend the night in Grand Marais before stocking up fudge.
