Split Rock Lighthouse State Park

One of the most popular and iconic destinations on the North Shore of Lake Superior is Split Rock Lighthouse. Situated high above the lake on a cliff, the lighthouse is one of the most picturesque on the lake. The state park itself offers a little over 10 miles of hiking, and the Minnesota Historical Society operates a museum about the lighthouse as well as seasonal tours.

Take time to learn about the history of the lighthouse, including the ship that found its final resting spot at the bottom of Lake Superior just offshore. Besides the rich history, the hiking provides many spectacular views. Some of the best views of the lighthouse can be a short hike down the cliff from the lighthouse to the shore. Both an unpaved trail and staircase will lead hikers down to the lake.

While tours of the lighthouse are seasonal, the park can be enjoyed all year long. While summer has some of the best weather, those willing to bear the Minnesota winter can be delighted with a snow-covered view of the lighthouse and a potentially frozen lake. As always, the changing colors of fall provide for amazing scenery.

It is best to go early to this destination for two reasons: Sunrise is spectacular on the North Shore, and this destination gets crowded and parking is limited (especially in the summer months).