Northeast Minnesota

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View of Silver Bay and Black Beach / Buffalo Media Group

Land of Rugged Beauty

Discover the wild beauty of Northeast Minnesota, where panoramic lake views, scenic rivers, tumbling waterfalls and dramatic woods are a sight to behold year-round. Wonder-filled cities await as well.

The magnificent Lake Superior, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and the freshwater-based Voyageurs National Park are highlights in this region where fishing, boating, hiking, biking, canoeing and camping rule. Explore unspoiled back country, or “rough it” in comfort at a lakeside lodge.

Experience the rich cultural tapestry of northeast Minnesota in Duluth, which brings big city fun with a seaport vibe. Smaller towns in the region are worthy of exploration, offering heritage museums, art galleries, and delicious food and craft beer.

A pair of hikers sit on a rock overlooking Silver Bay in Tettegouche State Park — Silver Bay in Tettegouche State Park / Ryan Taylor

Head North

Explore the North Shore

In the Land of 10,000 Lakes, the North Shore hugs the biggest, Lake Superior. Wide open beaches, dense forests, waterfalls and picturesque lighthouses are what you can expect on one of the finest road trips in MN. From Duluth to Grand Portage State Park, here are eight reasons why a trip to the North Shore is what we all need right now.

Close up of an oar and side of canoe in the Boundary Waters — Paddling adventures aplenty await in Ely / Paul Vincent

Get Out on the Water

Find a Spot to Paddle in Ely

Go beyond the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness to find pristine places to paddle in Ely, a paradise for the outdoors.

A family enjoys swiftwater rafting in Jay Cooke State Park, Carlton — Swiftwater rafting in Jay Cooke State Park, Carlton / Micah Kvidt

Rivers That Thrill

Go Whitewater Rafting

Minnesota may be known as the land of 10,000 lakes, but have you heard about our rivers? A web of wet and wild water trails weaves across the northeast corner of Minnesota, up, down, in and out from Lake Superior. These screaming streams evoke shrieks from thrill seekers and satisfy their quest for adventure.

ATV rider rock crawling at the Iron Range OHV Recreation Area in Gilbert

Explore the Iron Range

Endless Outdoor Recreation Abound on the Range

Once covered with mountains and a shallow sea, the Iron Range’s red earth is a playground for outdoor adventures like biking and ATVing.

Cabin at night in Pehrson Resort, Lake Vermilion area — Cabin in Pehrson Resort, Lake Vermilion area

Find Peaceful Wilderness

Visit Lake Vermilion

This large, beautiful lake in northeast Minnesota is rimmed with thick forest and studded with 365 pine-topped islands spread throughout its 37 miles. Largely undeveloped, Vermilion provides a wilderness escape at the peaceful resorts and campgrounds along its shores.

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Top Experiences

How to Make the Most of Winter

Northeastern Minnesota offers the most ways to win with winter, from snowshoeing, skiing and snowmobiling to dogsledding, great events and fat biking.

Uncover the Secrets of Spring

The snow is melting and warmer temps are on the way, but the lazy days of summer are months away. What’s there to do? Plenty, as it turns out. Learn about the unique pleasures of this in-between season in Northeast Minnesota.

Experience Rugged Beauty

The 150-mile northeasterly drive along Highway 61, from Duluth to the Canadian border, offers enough eye candy and coastal village charm for a weekend or more.

Hit the Links

Go on the ultimate golf getaway to Northeast Minnesota.

Top Things in Duluth

Duluth is one of Minnesota's most popular tourist destinations. Use our guide to find out where to go and what to do when you're in Duluth.