By: Maria Hileman
Plan a trip to Lake County, Minnesota, and be wowed by its scenic drives, jagged cliffs, hidden beaches and stunning vistas. It’s home to iconic parks, quaint towns and expansive wilderness. It’s where people go to slow down and immerse themselves in nature. Explore all its wonders by foot, bike or boat — from the Boundary Waters to the big lake.
To help you plan your perfect trip, we’ve compiled a list of some of our favorite stops.
Catch Sunrise
Start your morning with a spectacular show over Lake Superior. Catching a sunrise, no matter where you are, is such a simple joy that makes you stop and appreciate life’s marvels.
Caffeine Boost
Nestled in the woods, Cedar Coffee Company is a special place to gather while in Two Harbors. This laid-back coffee shop features espresso, café eats, a dog-friendly patio and a setting amid the forest.
Hit the Trails
This hiker’s paradise offers trails with amazing viewpoints, unspoiled beauty and pristine nature. It’s always a thrill to see rushing rapids and waterfalls along the North Shore, and Tettegouche and Gooseberry Falls are two state parks you won’t want to miss.
Catch Air
Lake County also has activities to get the heart pounding. Ride the rugged backcountry system with rocky technical trails on two new single-track trail systems. Add some excitement at the North Shore Adventure Park’s high ropes course and ziplines in Silver Bay. And some of you daredevils might want to try your hand at cliff diving; that frigid water will definitely be refreshing.
Refuel
After working up an appetite, be sure to enjoy a variety of foods along the North Shore. Like fresh Lake Superior fish and handcrafted soups and salads — and make sure to leave room for some insanely good pie.
Beach It Up
Did you know Lake County is home to black sand and pink sand beaches? The sight of the black sand alongside the red cliffs and blue water and sky is unlike anything else in Minnesota. Iona’s Beach, which has pink sand, is also known as Singing Beach — when waves crash onto this section of beach, the rocks sing a song.
Scenic Drives
The North Shore Scenic Drive, also known as Scenic Byway 61, is one of the most scenic drives in America. Discover the unspoiled surroundings of the Lake Superior shoreline and explore the rivers, streams and jagged cliffs along the way.
Nightcap
Complete your trip with a campfire right on the beach. Enjoy some ooey-gooey s’mores and the refreshing breeze off Lake Superior. And if you’re really lucky, maybe the Northern Lights will make an appearance.
Upcoming events:
Festival of Sail (August 4–7)
Rockin’ the Docks with Shenandoah (August 20)
Silver Bay Music in the Park Series (Fridays July 22–September 9)
Two Harbors Farmers Market (Saturdays 10 a.m.–noon)
Finland Farmers Market (Thursdays 5–6:30 p.m.)
To plan your next adventure to Lake County visit lovinlakecounty.com.