Minnesota--North Country Drive

Duluth may not be everyone's idea of an ideal vacation spot, but it's a great starting point for this spectacular experience in Minnesota's North Country. You can head out along the rugged Lake Superior coast on Route 61 where waterfalls, lighthouses, steep cliffs, and rocky shores cause you to consciously pull your eyes away from the scenery to watch the road.

At Tetaguchee State Park, after a short hike to see its Baptism River Falls, turn north on Route 1 to Ely, the canoer's heaven and a silent, unspoiled retreat from the world. Just past Two Harbors, about 15-20 miles outside of Duluth, there are two restaurants with great views of Lake Superior. A late lunch at the Cliff House or Scenic Point Restaurants would be perfect. While in Duluth, a short drive across the river to Superior, Wisconsin is worthwhile to see the Great Lakes ship S.S. Meteor. This 1896 "Whale Back Ship" provides great insight into the life on board the vessel over 100 years ago. Also in Duluth is The Depot, a replica of 1920s Duluth with trolleys, cobblestone streets, and a collection of steam locomotives.

Tom's Logging Camp (15 miles northeast on Route 61) duplicates life at the turn of the century with evidence of a lot more rugged lifestyle. The next stop is Gooseberry Falls, 25 miles farther along the route, where falls take water 100 feet down to Lake Superior. Split Rock Lighthouse, 22 miles farther, is the most famous landmark on the route. It was built in 1910, and its spectacular location hugging onto a 170-foot cliff has been the captured by many artists and photographers. The gem of the drive is Ely with its big country feel with thousands of connected lakes, otters, loons, moose, and bears. Dozens of outfitters supply all your needs for a fantastic wilderness experience, or you can spend a few days and nights in a cabin by one of the more accessible lakes. Do not miss the International Wolf Center. Its resident wolf pack and exhibits are very interesting and well presented.

Starting Point:
Duluth, MN

Distance of Drive:
120 miles

Must Eat:
Scenic Cafe
5461 North Shore, Duluth, MN 55804
Phone:  218-525-6274
Call ahead to confirm hours of operation.

Best Time of Year for Drive:
Summer. You can imagine how hard it is in Ely in the winter.

Points of Interest on Drive:
Lake Superior
Tetaguchee State Park
Baptism River Falls
Great Lakes ship S.S. Meteor
The Depot
Tom's Logging Camp
Gooseberry Falls
Split Rock Lighthouse

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Minnesota--The Great River Road

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