When it comes to breathtaking natural beauty and diverse landscapes, the United States offers a cornucopia of wonders from coast to coast. While the country boasts famous landmarks like the Grand Canyon and the Statue of Liberty, there are countless lesser-known gems waiting to be discovered. So, whether you’re a seasoned traveler or an adventurous soul ready to hit the road, here’s a journey inspired by Travel + Leisure’s article that promises to captivate your senses and awaken your wanderlust.
Fall is a magical time in the United States, and while places like Vermont and Maine often steal the spotlight for their colorful foliage, a hidden gem awaits in Minnesota. Welcome to the North Shore Scenic Byway, a 154-mile stretch of road along Lake Superior’s shoreline that promises a unique autumn experience. The North Shore’s beauty lies in its double dose of fall. First, you’ll be enchanted by the fiery hues of maple trees in the mountains, followed by the golden glory of aspen and birch trees along the shore. This seasonal spectacle has earned the byway the prestigious title of an “All-American Road” by the U.S. Secretary of Transportation.
Begin your journey in Duluth, a city known for North America’s largest freshwater estuary, ideal for kayaking and canoeing. If you’re keen on exploring the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, a major attraction of the North Shore, take a detour through Two Harbors. Continuing on the scenic byway, you’ll encounter Kelsey Beach, where you can savor a slice of pie from Betty’s, a local gem. The route then leads you through Gooseberry State Park and Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, home to the iconic Split Rock Lighthouse, a must-visit spot.
Further along, Tettegouche State Park boasts some of Minnesota’s most magnificent waterfalls. You can take a leisurely hike along the cliffs or embark on the Cascade Trail to witness the awe-inspiring Cascades Waterfall. The journey continues through Caribou Falls State Wayside and Temperance River State Park before reaching Lutsen, a small town with a thriving summer and fall mountain scene. Here, you can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the lake from the Summit Express gondola, try mountain biking, or experience the adrenaline rush of the alpine slide.
As you make your way to Grand Marais, a charming coastal town awaits. This community offers delectable cuisine and a vibrant art scene, including the renowned North House Folk School, where you can explore traditional northern crafts. Your journey culminates in the town of Grand Portage near the Canadian border. While it’s possible to complete the entire route in a day, savoring the North Shore’s beauty deserves a slower pace. In Duluth, consider staying at Solglimt, a charming five-room bed-and-breakfast with Lake Superior beach access, or the waterfront Fitger’s Hotel.
Midway through your adventure, The Mayhew Inn in Grand Marais beckons with expansive rooftop decks overlooking the harbor and The Gunflint Trail. For those who prefer the great outdoors, there are numerous campgrounds scattered along the route. In Grand Marais, The Fisherman’s Daughter serves up “dock-to-table fish + chips” and a mouthwatering selection of fish tacos and more. Nearby, the Angry Trout Cafe offers a unique lakefront dining experience in a converted commercial fishing shanty.
Timing is everything when it comes to experiencing the North Shore’s splendor. The best time to embark on this scenic byway adventure is in the fall when the weather cools and the landscape transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors. The maple trees in the Sawtooth Mountains typically reach their peak in mid-September, with the spectacle continuing into early October. Along the Lake Superior shoreline, where you’ll spend most of your journey, aspens and birch trees typically peak between late September and mid-October.
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