Hiking along the
North Shore
heavenly for hiking
From rugged backcountry to wide smooth paths, the trails are many. And many are pet-friendly. (Just bring a leash and scoop the poop!)
Spanning 300+ miles from Jay Cooke State Park to the Canadian border, the Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) is a national treasure. It recently joined the North Country Trail system’s 4,800-mile network that spans eight states.
Far North: The Kekekabic Hiking Trail
(“The Kek”) is not for the faint of heart. Primitive and sometimes hard to find, many of its 46 miles are in the BWCAW. Map and compass skills are highly recommended.
Accessible trails
Paved, non-motorized trails like these draw people of all abilities: The Gitchi-Gami State Trail winds through forests hugging the shore of Lake Superior for 14 miles between Gooseberry State Park and Beaver Bay. A one-mile segment at Silver Creek Cliff wayside park uses the Old Highway 61 roadbed and offers a 4000-foot vista of Lake Superior.
Agate Bay Trail in Two Harbors travels along the city’s outskirts for 6.5 miles. The Sonju Trail runs between the Two Harbors Lighthouse in Agate Bay and Burlington Bay, following the shore. Partially paved, the trail is a sweet spot to stroll, view the lake, and picnic.
10 Stunning north shore fall colors hikes
Ask anyone who lives near the North Shore their favorite season, and you’ll most likely hear, “Fall!” Sure, you can take a gorgeous scenic drive, but to see the most captivating and breathtaking views, you’ve got to get moving.
If fall colors, vibrant views, and nature photography are your passion, then these 10 Lake County hiking destinations will satisfy your soul…and your Instagram followers!
Use the North Shore Fall Hikes Map below to get directions to some of the best scenic fall hikes on Minnesota’s North Shore.
where to hike in lake county
Palisade Head
Palisade Head, an iconic rocky cliff formation, provides one of the most stunning overlooks along the North Shore. Visitors who make the short, steep drive …
Split Rock Lighthouse State Park
Gaze upon miles of North Shore coastline at the daring height of 130 feet off the Split Rock Lighthouse cliffside. Take in the charming architectural …
Uptown Trail
The paved Uptown Trail runs through the uptown area of Two Harbors, beginning at Lakeview National Golf Course. On this trail, you’ll find the best …
Superior Hiking Trail
The Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) spans 300+ miles from Jay Cooke State Park to the Canadian border. It recently joined the North Country Trail system’s …
Positive Energy Outdoors
Positive Energy Outdoors specializes in world-class outdoor adventure activities in Duluth and on the North Shore of Lake Superior. Their extraordinary and skilled team carries …
Shovel Point
Shovel Point, a favorite North Shore overlook located within Tettegouche State Park, offers hikers panoramic views of rocky cliffs and rugged bluffs along the Lake …
Sonju Trail
The Sonju Trail in Two Harbors makes the perfect path for a leisurely bike ride with scenic lakeside views. The partially paved, accessible walking/bike trail …
Gitchi-Gami State Trail
The Gitchi-Gami State Trail features a paved, non-motorized biking and walking trail along the North Shore of Lake Superior. Once completed, the route will stretch …
Iona’s Beach Scientific & Natural Area
Iona’s Beach Scientific & Natural Area, located just north of Two Harbors, was named after Iona Lind, who owned Twin Points Resort (it formerly occupied …
George Crosby Manitou State Park
George Crosby Manitou State Park in Finland is a favored place by locals for its rich wilderness and serene beauty. Hiking this rugged state park …
Glen Avon Falls
Although typically unknown to the casual North Shore traveler, Glen Avon Falls, a hidden North-Shore gem, is a popular destination for anglers. Visitors can park …
Gooseberry Falls State Park
As the gateway to the North Shore, Gooseberry Falls earns popularity for its spectacular waterfalls, river gorge, Lake Superior shoreline, Civilian Conservation Corps log and …
Tettegouche State Park
At Tettegouche State Park, you’ll discover the spectacular overlooks at Shovel Point, featuring rocky cliffs and inland bluffs; the plunging 60-foot High Falls of the …
Caribou Falls Wayside
Heading north on 61, just north of Little Marais, sits the Caribou Falls Wayside. Park at the rest area and take a half-mile hike along …
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