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Lake Superior

Mother and son play together by the shore of Lake Superior
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Take in the incredible view of Lake Superior from Black Beach near Silver Bay / Paul Vincent

The World's Largest Freshwater Lake

Superior, the greatest of the Great Lakes, is best explored on the water itself. Sailing on majestic Lake Superior really gives you a sense of this big lake, and provides fantastic views of the rocky, forested north shore. The Ojibwe called the lake gichi-gami , meaning "great sea." Whether you choose to explore by boat or via the stunning cities and trails along the shore, the serene beauty is sure to stay with you long after you leave. 

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Beaver Bay Palisade Head fall North Shore hiking

A hiker overlooks Lake Superior from Palisade Head in the fall / Micah Kvidt

Rugged Beauty

Explore the North Shore's eight state parks, each with waterfalls thundering down to Lake Superior. The magnificent 296-mile Superior Hiking Trail flows through fragrant woods along scenic Highway 61. 

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Car drives over a rushing river on a steel-latticed bridge

Driving over the rushing St. Louis River in Jay Cooke State Park / Minnesota DOT

Road Tripping Along the North Shore

The North Shore is one of the state’s most-visited destinations. From Duluth to Grand Portage, this 145-mile stretch features charming towns, state parks filled with scenic trails, fascinating historic sites and untouched wilderness.

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Gitchi Gami Bike Trail along the North Shore of Lake Superior

Gitchi Gami Bike Trail along the North Shore of Lake Superior

Scenic Cycling

One of the best ways to soak in the beauty of Lake Superior is to see it on two wheels. Whether you decide to cycle the paved Gitchi-Gami State Trail or zip along the scenic shoreline on Highway 61, make sure to stop and take your time at some of the unique sites along the way. 

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Ursa Minor Brewing bar

Sidle up to the bar at Ursa Minor Brewing in Duluth's trendy Lincoln Park Craft District / Pinkbike

Food & Drink

Jaw-dropping beauty meets mouthwatering meals on Minnesota’s North Shore, from lake-to-table dining and gastronomic delicacies to locally brewed beer and thirst-quenching coffeehouses. 

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Father playfully spins his son around by the arms in front of the Duluth lift bridge

Father and son enjoy a playful moment in front of the Aerial Lift Bridge in Duluth / Paul Vincent

Doing Duluth

Whether cruising the lake on a boat tour, perusing the historic Glensheen Estate, cycling the seriously scenic Duluth Traverse or zipping downhill on Spirit Mountain’s alpine coaster, there’s no wrong way to do Duluth. 

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