TOURS

During September and October, the fall colors of the North Shore take center stage. Peak season lands during the last two weeks of September and the first week of October. Fall colors extend through mid-October.

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HIKE:

Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve In Duluth

Well known as one of the best locations in the US for hawk-watching during the fall migration. Hike four miles of trails that wind through a diverse ecosystem. In the fall there are bird counting activities and educational programs available.

DRIVE: HONEYMOON LOOP

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Drive through beautiful maple canopy and rolling hills, crossing the Poplar River. Best in mid-September. Take the Caribou Trail (Cook County 4) north 6.7 miles. Turn left on Forest Road 164 (Honeymoon Trail). Turn left on the Sawbill Trail (Cook County 2) to head back to Hwy 61 in Tofte.

HIKE:

Gooseberry Fifth Falls Trail

An enjoyable 1.5-mile autumn riverside stroll; includes the Upper Falls and Fifth Falls; best during late fall season.

HIKE: OBERG MOUNTAIN LOOP

Only going for one hike? Pick this one during the early season of maple colors. A short walk leads to an ascending loop with sweeping Lake Superior views and vast maple hillsides rising to the north. Trailhead and parking are inland on the Onion River Road.

HIKE & RIDE:

Gondola Loop

Very unique! Hike the Superior Hiking Trail from the Poplar River to the top of Moose Mountain (about 3 miles). See the outstanding mountaintop views of the maple ridge and Lake Superior. Buy a one-way ticket for Lutsen Mountains’ gondola and ride back to the base. Park at the end of Ski Hill Road in Lutsen.

110.0 DRIVE: COUNTY ROAD 60

An especially handsome drive, this Grand Marais back road showcases canopies of sugar maples and occasional glimpses of maple hillsides. From Hwy 61, north on the Gunflint Trail, east on County Rd 60, then either south two miles on County Rd 14 to Hwy 61 or north for a five-mile loop to Hwy 61.

110+ DRIVE: GUNFLINT TRAIL SCENIC BYWAY

This scenic route takes you 57 miles inland to discover inland lakes and the Boundary Waters wilderness. The route takes you through remote forest with golden birch and aspen and shimmering tamarack in late fall. Look for moose and other wildlife along the way!

145.0 HIKE OR DRIVE: MOUNT JOSEPHINE/GRAND PORTAGE

Mount Josephine is one of the highest peaks on the North Shore. A steep 1-mile one-way hike to the top is rewarded with stunning views of the Grand Portage Bay, Susie Islands, and Isle Royale. Best fall color is early in October for the golden birch and aspen. Continue exploring Grand Portage by car and along the shore to the Mount Josephine waysides for incredible views of Wauswaugoning Bay and the Susie Islands.