
Visit a tropical paradise, seven state parks, one national monument, several lighthouses, many beautiful rivers and waterfalls (including the highest one in Minnesota), and see some spectacular views of Lake Superior. The North Shore Drive (Minnesota Hwy 61) follows the rocky north shore of Lake Superior from Duluth to Grand Portage, near the Canadian border. It has been designated an All-American Road Scenic Byway, and Bob Dylan referred to it in the album and song 'Highway 61 Revisited.' For a real wilderness adventure at the end of the route, take a boat trip to an island national park in Lake Superior where there are no roads or wheeled vehicles.
Here are just some of the sites along this memorable 154-mile drive:
Duluth, Minnesota (Starting point)
A tropical paradise awaits you in Duluth at Edgewater Resort and Water Park. This indoor paradise would be a great place to let the kids (or the adults) unwind before the journey. The route begins at the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center in Duluth.
Two Harbors (Mile 35)
Just a few miles past Two Harbors is Gooseberry Falls State Park, the first of seven state parks along the route. Just a few miles further is Split Rock Lighthouse, one of the most picturesque views along the route. There are daily tours that provide details and history of the lighthouse.
Grand Marais (Mile 110)
Grand Marais is a quaint little harbor town and the gateway to Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The Gunflint Trail Scenic Byway is a 57-mile paved road that takes you on a side trip to this renowned destination for both canoeing and fishing.
Grand Portage (Mile 151)
Grand Portage National Monument celebrates traditional Ojibwe Indian life and the history of the Canadian North West Fur Trading Post. Grand Portage is also home of the dock for passenger boats to convey tourists to Isle Royale National Park.
Grand Portage State Park (Mile 154)
Grand Portage State Park is the home of High Falls, the highest waterfall in Minnesota.
Isle Royale National Park
Head back to the dock at Grand Portage and take the boat for a day trip to Isle Royale National Park, or make it a real wilderness adventure with a multi-day visit at a campsite or stay at Rock Harbor Lodge.

Hollow Rock on Lake Superior
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