Lake County features some of the most scenic natural beauty in all of Minnesota. Home to four gorgeous state parks, raging rivers, waterfalls, the Superior National Forest, and majestic Lake Superior, Lake County offers an unforgettable outdoor adventure outdoor enthusiasts crave.
Waterfalls and More Waterfalls
Most of the waterfalls found on the North Shore are within Lake County’s four state parks. From cascading falls to the tallest waterfall in the state, each is awe-inspiring in its unique way.
Photo courtesy of Two Harbors Chamber of Commerce
Gooseberry Falls State Park features three waterfalls along the Gooseberry River. Appropriately named Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls, the Gooseberry Falls collectively are a hotspot for photographers to take breathtaking shots of the raging Gooseberry River.
Split Rock Lighthouse State Park features hiking trails connected to the Superior Hiking Trail, where hikers can pass several waterfalls along the way. The path ends with a spectacular view of Lake Superior.
Tettegouche State Park showcases one of the highest waterfalls in Minnesota. The water source flows from the Baptism River, which also features the Two Steps Falls, located a little further upstream, and just as beautiful.
Sandy or Rocky Beaches: It’s Up to You
With some of the country’s most unique and beautiful beaches, you won’t want to miss the awe-inspiring views in Lake County.
Whether you want to visit a rock beach to hound for agates, or a sandy beach to lay for hours, the North Shore doesn’t disappoint. Lake Superior spares plenty of room for you to find the perfect spot with more than nine fantastic beaches to explore.
Agate Bay, a rocky lakeside beach, features a long pier leading to a lighthouse. It offers a newly renovated boat ramp with some of the best scenic views on the shore.
Black Beach ranks high on the list of local favorites. It can be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit a beach with completely black sand, so it’s no wonder Black Beach is one of the best-kept secrets in the area.
Pebble Beach delivers one-of-a-kind views of the Split Rock lighthouse. If you are into rougher terrain and rock building, this is the beach for you.
Visit Lake County Chamber’s website to explore more beaches along the shore and find the perfect lodging property poised along the coast.
Unprecedented Scenic Adventures
Whether you’re a casual hiker, fat-tire biker, daring rock climber, or ATV rider, your adventure awaits you in Lake County.
Hiking and biking are two of the best ways to take in the beauty of the North Shore. Experience scenic lakeside walking trails to the world-famous Superior Hiking Trail and the great trail systems within Minnesota state parks.
The 300-plus mile Superior Hiking Trail stretches between Duluth and the Canadian Border with trailheads every 5-10 miles and rustic campsites along the way. Plan an extended trip and bring your tent, or take a day trip or one of the shorter loops.
The premier North Shore spot for climbing is Palisade Head in Tettagouche State Park, where open-faced cliffs plummet down towards Lake Superior. Only adequately trained and advanced climbers should attempt this daring challenge. Lake County requires a free permit for anyone who wants to climb, available in the park headquarters during business hours.
There’s a reason Minnesota’s North Shore has long been a top vacation destination for those who love the outdoors. With its pristine Lake Superior waters, state parks, and remarkable trail systems, you can count on infinite adventures in Lake County.
