Location: Along the shoreline of Lake Superior in Northeast Minnesota, from Duluth to Grand Portage
Length: 154 miles (248 km)
Time To Allow: 1 day

Description/Highlights/Points of Interest

The North Shore Scenic Drive runs from the world-famous Twin Ports of Duluth-Superior to Grand Portage, following the majestic shoreline of Lake Superior, the world's largest freshwater lake. Along the route, you'll never be far from the lake and you'll experience some of the most spectacular scenery in the country. The North Shore Scenic Drive provides access to eight state parks and the Superior National Forest and offers unlimited opportunities to enjoy the outdoors in all its seasons.

Suggested Itinerary

A trip along the North Shore Scenic Drive should begin in Duluth with a visit to the National Scenic Byways Resource Center. The staff at the Resource Center will be more than happy to assist you with any questions about the National Scenic Byways Program and even supply you with a map or two.

Duluth, an inland port on Superior, celebrates its seafaring history in the Canal Park entertainment complex with its cobblestone streets, wrought iron lampposts and horse drawn carriages. The Lakewalk connects Bayfront Park, the Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge, Lake Superior Center, the SS William Irvin freighter, Canal Park Maritime Museum and dozens of shops, restaurants and attractions. The Great Lakes Aquarium is America"s only all fresh water aquarium. Vista Queen"s Harbor Cruise gives you an up-close look at lake freighters and international ships in the harbor. Visit the Depot, an arts center and a train museum, and Glensheen, the elegant lakeside estate. From Skyline Parkway high above the city, enjoy a panoramic view of the harbor and Lake Superior. Near the north end, Hawk Ridge is favorite with bird watchers especially during the fall hawk migration in September when thousands of raptors fly overhead.

At Two Harbors, look for the 3M/Dwan Museum. This area is home to the 3M Company and its sandpaper museum. The road ahead is a treat unto itself purely for the scenic views of Lake Superior and the beautiful wooded shoreline of Minnesota. This unique landscape offers a chain of State Parks for many types of recreation. The first park along this chain that shouldn't be missed is the Split Rock Lighthouse State Park. The Visitor Center, by the lighthouse, is open 9am–5pm during the summer months.

Gooseberry Falls State Park just up the road, is another stop not to be missed. The falls here are spectacular. Also, stop by the Joseph N. Alexander Visitor Center where you can find park information, interpretive displays, a park video, Nature Store and more.

If you like to hike, then Tettegouche State Park will be a special treat. Tettegouche is a hiker's paradise with miles of trails that overlook the Sawtooth Mountains and wind down to inland lakes accessible only by foot. There are two trout lakes, and the park offers opportunities for rock climbing and birdwatching in the spring, summer and fall.

Stop at the many waysides and beaches as you travel further up the byway. All offer plenty of scenic and recreational opportunities. The next major stop is the town of Grand Marais. Plenty of visitor services are available here. Continue along the byway, heading north to Grand Portage. In Grand Portage, be sure to visit the Grand Portage Visitor Information Center and Grand Portage National Monument. The monument's staff recommends that visitors discover the video programs, hands-on exhibits in the Great Hall, interpretive programs and walking the Grand Portage and Mount Rose Trails. Enjoy a meal by Grand Portage Bay in the picnic area located just east of the palisade.