The Ultimate Guide To Superior Hiking Trail Campsites

Introduction

The Superior Hiking Trail is a 310-mile long hiking trail that runs along the North Shore of Lake Superior in Minnesota. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts who want to explore the beauty of the Northwoods. The trail passes through several state parks, forests, and campgrounds, offering breathtaking views of forests, lakes, and waterfalls. In this guide, we will take you on a journey through the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.

Top Attractions

Split Rock Lighthouse

Split Rock Lighthouse is one of the most iconic landmarks on the North Shore. It was built in 1910 and has been guiding ships through Lake Superior’s rocky shorelines ever since. Visitors can tour the lighthouse and learn about its history and the life of a lighthouse keeper. The surrounding park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the lake.

Gooseberry Falls State Park

Gooseberry Falls State Park is a must-visit destination for hikers and nature lovers. The park features a series of waterfalls, hiking trails, and picnic areas. The trails range from easy to challenging, and visitors can choose from several routes that offer different views of the falls and the river.

Hidden Gems

Palisade Head

Palisade Head is a cliff that rises 300 feet above Lake Superior. It offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding forests. Visitors can hike to the top of the cliff or simply park their car and enjoy the view.

Devil’s Kettle

Devil’s Kettle is a mysterious waterfall that has puzzled visitors for years. Half of the waterfall flows into a pool, but the other half disappears into a deep hole and is never seen again. Scientists have been trying to figure out where the water goes, but no one knows for sure.

Food Scene

The North Shore is known for its fresh seafood, wild rice, and wild berries. Visitors can enjoy local specialties like smoked trout, walleye, and blueberries at several restaurants and cafes along the trail. Some popular options include Betty’s Pies, New Scenic Cafe, and Northern Waters Smokehaus.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Camping is one of the most budget-friendly ways to explore the Superior Hiking Trail. The trail offers several campsites, ranging from primitive sites to full-service campgrounds. Visitors can also save money by packing their own food and water and bringing their own camping gear.

Outdoor Adventures

The Superior Hiking Trail offers several outdoor adventures, including hiking, backpacking, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. The trail passes through several state parks and forests, offering endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. Visitors can also explore the nearby Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, which is a popular destination for canoeing and camping.

Historical Landmarks

Grand Portage National Monument

The Grand Portage National Monument is a historic site that tells the story of the fur trade in the 18th century. Visitors can tour the reconstructed trading post and learn about the lives of the Ojibwe people and the French-Canadian fur traders. The site also offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of Lake Superior.

Glensheen Mansion

The Glensheen Mansion is a historic mansion that was built in 1908. Visitors can tour the mansion and learn about the lives of the wealthy Congdon family who owned it. The mansion features 39 rooms, 15 fireplaces, and several gardens.

Family-Friendly Activities

The Superior Hiking Trail offers several family-friendly activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and picnicking. Families can also visit several state parks and forests, which offer playgrounds, beaches, and nature centers. Some popular family-friendly destinations include Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, Gooseberry Falls State Park, and Tettegouche State Park.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

The Little Two Harbors Trail

The Little Two Harbors Trail is a 2-mile trail that offers stunning views of Lake Superior. The trail starts at the Silver Bay Marina and follows the shoreline to Little Two Harbors, a secluded cove that offers peace and quiet away from the crowds.

Carlton Peak

Carlton Peak is a challenging hike that offers stunning views of the surrounding forests and Lake Superior. The trail is 6 miles round trip and gains 1,150 feet in elevation. The peak offers panoramic views of the North Shore, making it a popular destination for hikers and photographers.

Natural Wonders

Temperance River State Park

Temperance River State Park is a natural wonder that features a series of waterfalls and rapids. The park offers several hiking trails that lead to different views of the river and the falls. Visitors can also fish, picnic, and camp in the park.

Artist’s Point

Artist’s Point is a rocky peninsula that juts out into Lake Superior. It offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding forests. The area is also known for its unique rock formations and is a popular destination for photographers and artists.

Vibrant Nightlife

The North Shore is known for its laid-back atmosphere and small-town charm. Visitors can enjoy live music, craft beer, and local cuisine at several bars and restaurants along the trail. Some popular options include Castle Danger Brewery, Gun Flint Tavern, and Voyageur Brewing Company.

Local Markets

The North Shore is home to several farmers’ markets and craft fairs that offer locally grown produce, handmade crafts, and artisanal products. Visitors can find everything from fresh berries and vegetables to pottery and jewelry. Some popular markets include the Grand Marais Farmers’ Market, the Two Harbors Farmers’ Market, and the Duluth Farmers’ Market.

Beaches and Mountains

The North Shore offers several beaches and mountains that are perfect for outdoor recreation. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking at several beaches along the trail, including Park Point Beach in Duluth and Iona’s Beach in Grand Marais. The trail also offers several mountains that offer stunning views of the lake and the surrounding forests, including Eagle Mountain, the highest peak in Minnesota.

Cultural Immersion

The North Shore is home to several Native American communities that offer cultural immersion experiences. Visitors can learn about the history and culture of the Ojibwe people at several museums and cultural centers, including the Grand Portage National Monument and the Bois Forte Heritage Center.

Art and Music Scene

The North Shore is home to several artists and musicians who draw inspiration from the beauty of the landscape. Visitors can explore several art galleries and studios along the trail, including the Lake Superior Art Glass Studio and the Sivertson Gallery. The trail also offers several music festivals and concerts throughout the year, including the Bayfront Blues Festival and the Grand Marais Music Festival.

Walking Tours

The North Shore offers several walking tours that allow visitors to explore the history and culture of the region. Visitors can take a guided tour of Split Rock Lighthouse, the Glensheen Mansion, or the Grand Portage National Monument. They can also explore several historic downtowns, including Duluth and Two Harbors.

Architectural Marvels

Enger Tower

Enger Tower is a historic tower that offers stunning views of the city of Duluth and the surrounding forests. The tower was built in 1939 and is named after Bert Enger, a Norwegian immigrant who donated the land for the tower. Visitors can tour the tower and learn about its history and the life of Bert Enger.

Aerial Lift Bridge

The Aerial Lift Bridge is a landmark bridge that spans the Duluth Ship Canal. It was built in 1905 and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Duluth. Visitors can watch the bridge in action as it lifts to allow ships to pass through the canal.

Historical Sites

Fort William Historical Park

Fort William Historical Park is a living history museum that tells the story of the fur trade in the 18th century. Visitors can explore the reconstructed fort and learn about the lives of the fur traders and the Ojibwe people. The site also offers several interactive exhibits, including blacksmithing and canoe building demonstrations.