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North Shore Fall Color Tours
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Green
Pines, cedar, spruce, balsam |
Trees Changing
Tamarack |
Peaking Fall Colors |
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Fall Color and Bird Migration Report
[ p
u b l i s h e d a b o u t e v e r y d a y
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North Shore Fall Colors 2011! Fewer people, cooler temps and
things you don't see in the cities like bald eagles and wolves.
>>Report for October 18, 2011
Fall
Color Status:
Maples,
aspens, poplars and oaks have peaked and have fallen to the ground. Generally colors are best for maple
and oak from mid September into early October. Colors for birch and poplar/aspen
are last two weeks of September into mid October. Tamarack
changes to lemon yellow at the end of October into November. We report fall colors into two areas; the
lower North
Shore and upper North Shore.
FALL COLOR REPORT FOR LOWER NORTH SHORE
/ DULUTH AREA / HWY 61 MILE 0 TO MILE 70>>>Duluth through
Little Marais, which includes
Tettegouche State Park, St.
Louis and Lake Counties. Current Report October 18; maples,
aspens, poplars, oaks have peaked and have fallen to the ground.
Tamarack is beginning to turn yellow. Awesome time of year to
hike North
Shore trails and explore the area, now that the leaves have
fallen.
FALL COLOR REPORT FOR UPPER NORTH SHORE HWY 61 MILE 70 TO USA / CANADA BORDER
>>>All of Cook County from Schroeder up through Grand Portage,
Gunflint Trail and the Canadian border area. Current
Report October 18; maples, aspens and poplars have peaked and
have fallen to the ground. Tamarack is beginning to turn yellow. Awesome time of year to
hike North
Shore trails and explore the area, now that the leaves have
fallen. Great number of bald eagles and falcons have been
migrating overhead.
Great opportunities exist for wolf, deer,
and red fox watching at night. Also bald eagles and ravens can
be seen on road kill along Hwy 61 during the day. At mile 115
three weeks ago; 2 wolves and a red fox have been consuming a
deer. At mile 121 two weeks ago; at least
one wolf and a red fox have also been consuming a deer. During daylight; ravens and bald
eagles are feasting together. Saturday night 11pm September 24th
in downtown Grand Marais two wolves trotted down Hwy 61 and
turned down into RV Park, and ran into pond area by municipal
pool.
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Another wolf October 3rd in broad daylight eating a
carcass at mile 116.5 Hwy 61 [see image to left]. Another
wolf has been seen past two weeks at
night and during the day around Hwy 61 mile markers 114 to
118. This wolf has an injured rear leg and is working
residential areas, searching for an easy meal, most likely
a family pet.
Wolf sightings are on a sharp increase due to over population
and lack of fear for humans. We sat and watched this wolf for
ten minutes, rolling and chewing on a dead animal. Areas
east of Grand Marais to the Brule River have been the hot
spot the past three weeks; between 9pm and midnight we've
sighted 8 wolves, 17 red fox and 56 deer on Hwy 61 between Grand
Marais and
Judge Magney State Park. |
Wolves are commonly seen on and along Hwy 61 in Cook
County in the; Lutsen area,
Cascade River State Park area, up and through
downtown Grand Marais, Colvill, Kadunce River Wayside area,
Judge Magney State Park and Hovland.
2008 and 2009 - very late fall colors ended rather abruptly Oct 15th and 17th
as strong fall squalls rolled in. Watching these storms rip
leaves off trees and spin up Lake Superior into huge shore
pounding waves, is a spectacular scene.
>>Keep these things in mind;
Watch out for ticks... we've been finding very small deer ticks
on dogs and people. Hard to believe but, deer ticks are very
active during the warm fall days and often attach in the very private
body areas. Deer ticks are a recent invasive species that has
moved into North Shore areas, possibly from excessive deer
populations. (might be a good place to find an area to deer
hunt.)
Please be courteous to those that don't want to drive as
slow as you. Turn-out in a safe location and let faster traffic
pass. Not everyone is leaf looking. People live and work here
too. Thank you!
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See fall color images
of Oberg Mountain from September 30th, 2010.
See fall color images
of Cascade River from September 30th, 2010.
SPECIAL EVENT>>Split
Rock Lighthouse State Park Beacon lighting and anniversary of
the sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald
Nov 10th.
read more about this event...
Birds
Heading South:
A west or north wind, or combination of, are the best winds for
experiencing migration. Birds get stacked up along Lake Superior
as the wind pushes them towards the Big Lake. Easier to spot
species are; bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, are moving through the area. Over 12,000
broad-wings passed over
Hawk Ridge
September 15th, 2011.
Observers hit popular
locations and the shoreline to enjoy the lakeshore and passing
birds. Find out why birds get
funneled
along Lake Superior. Or find good birding
spots.
Many types of birds migrate through the Minnesota North Shore,
particularly large number of raptors. These 'birds of prey'
include; eagles, osprey, falcons, turkey vultures, owls, hawks
and accipiters. Shore birds and waterfowl also move through the
corridor along Lake Superior. Peak time for migration is mid
September to early October.
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>>>MORE ABOUT WINDS AND MIGRATING BIRDS...
Image above was taken at 5pm Oct 9th, 2007 overlooking Grand Marais from the east.
Notice turkey vultures near center right. Migrating birds were
using the east winds to their advantage and the crazy cloud
formations made a great backdrop.
Migrating birds are numerous along the whole North Shore, with
large numbers of birds concentrated along the shorelines when
the winds are out of the north, west or combination of.
Reluctant to cross the Big Lake, migrating birds become funneled
along the shoreline and the hills along Lake Superior. Best
areas for spotting migrating birds is within 1-2 miles of the
shoreline of Lake Superior when these conditions exist.
Don't miss stopping at Hawk Ridge on your way up or down.
Read more about Hawk Ridge and other great places to view
migrating birds below... |
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>>>Duluth
- Hawk Ridge | Grand Marais area
| Scenic Hwy 1 toward Ely | Current
bird migration report
In Duluth,
Minnesota at Hawk Ridge Nature Preserve
>>>We think Hawk Ridge is the best spot for viewing migrating birds in the
Midwest!
The combination of fall colors, birds migrating over and the
great view of the Duluth Harbor is fantastic!
BROAD-WINGED HAWKS in record numbers at Hawk Ridge!
Often 1000s are counted in a single day in September. Hawk Ridge is a nature preserve dedicated to birding, and is
one of the best places in the mid-west to see migrating birds, especially raptors. "Raptors" are birds of prey, such as bald eagles and red-tailed hawks. Check out the
Hawk
Ridge Web site for Public Programs, directions and a
map.
One of the more spectacular migration events is the kettles of broad-winged hawks seen from Hawk Ridge above Duluth, Minnesota. During the fall these football sized raptors/birds of prey are in large numbers called "kettles."
From approx. August 25th -
September 30th the BWHs gather together and form what looks like a moving tornado.
Over 50,000
migrating birds pass
over Hawk Ridge each year during the fall migration. Check out the
Hawk
Ridge Web site for Public Programs, directions and a
map. A great place to stop and experience a
very unique event, take a break from driving! Nice place to see fall
colors, click here for more details and
directions.
Events and bird counts, directions and more.
Request lodging information at:
www.northshoreinfo.com/lodging or check out the dining opportunities.
----------------------------------------------------
Overlooking Lake
Superior and Grand Marais, Minnesota
These
are great places too!!
There are two other, less known places to view the migration, the first one is 2
miles up the Gunflint Trail/County Road 12 out of Grand Marais.
The Pincushion Mountain Recreation Area is a right-hand
turn onto County Road 53. It has a large parking area and is a paved road,
off of the Gunflint Trail/County Road 12. Nice place with trails
for Mtn. biking and hiking. The second one is just west of
Pincushion along the same bluff overlooking Grand Marais, the
Old Ski Hill Area/Sawtooth Bluff. Turn west/left
onto County Road
64, about 2 1/2 miles from Grand Marais or less than a 1/2 mile after the
Pincushion Mountain Recreation Area turn. Once you're on
County Road 64 it is about 2 miles all the way to the end, where
there is a great view of Grand Marais and Lake Superior. You'll
see numerous communication towers near the parking areas.
Request lodging information at:
www.northshoreinfo.com/lodging or check out the dining opportunities.
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Along scenic Hwy 1 toward Ely, Minnesota
Another great
place for birding all season long!
The Birch
Lake Dam
The Birch Lake Dam is located on the South Kawishiwi River,
which is the west border of River Point Resort & Outfitting Co’s
mile long private peninsula on scenic highway #1, which connects
the North Shore to the Ely area. The dam is a hop, skip and a
jump from River Point by either boat (1 mile) or by foot or
vehicle (1.5 miles). This is Ely area ornithologist, Bill
Tefft's all time favorite location for birding—and Bill has
birded across the region for more than 25 years. The area which
was first mentioned in one of the oldest guides to birding in
Minnesota, has been a hot spot for literally decades. Tefft says
it is still one of the most dependable birding spots in the
area. Lots of morning sun attracts the warblers, flycatchers and
other birds. Water is right there, so waterfowl can be counted
on. You can even walk along the dike that extends on either side
of the dam for a better look at the surrounding treetops.
Adjacent is a gravel road which is also a birder's fun spot to
check out. River
Point Resort & Outfitting Co.
Request lodging information at:
www.northshoreinfo.com/lodging or check out the dining opportunities.
----------------------------------------------------
North Shore Fall Colors 2011!
Request lodging information at:
www.northshoreinfo.com/lodging or check out the dining opportunities.
Take your pick of over 25
North Shore Fall Color Tours™ from northshorefallcolors.com.
Try one of these routes for wildlife viewing, hiking, biking,
driving, canoeing or sailing on the North Shore! Use
caution some road and trails are not for all/any vehicles.
Daily Fall Colors Report |
Why do leaves change color?
Special
topics:
Why
do leaves change color
| Weather for the
Minnesota North Shore
North
Shore Lodging
Specials | North Shore Fall Color Tours™ from northshorefallcolors.com
Try one of these routes while your hiking, biking, driving, or
sailing on the North Shore!
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Autumn on
Minnesota's North Shore of Lake Superior will leave you with incredible impressions.
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©
2011 Scott Benson |
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Why Do Leaves Change Color? |
Leaves change color due to shifting rhythm of the day and night. The long warm
days of summer eventually turn shorter and cooler, which triggers a chemical
clock inside the deciduous tree to enter winter sleep or dormancy. Deciduous
means "a tree with leaves instead of needles." During
the summer months the color or "pigment" of leaves are mostly
green from the chlorophyll which the tree is abundantly producing. But as fall
approaches the tree enters dormancy and stops producing food and chlorophyll. As the amount of chlorophyll diminishes,
a group of pigments called carotenoids start to show. Carotenoids are the
yellow, brown and orange colors we see during fall. Deciduous
trees on the North Shore are mainly; sugar maple, aspen [aka poplars], paper birch, ash, silver maple,
tamarack ( a deciduous coniferous tree ) and some black cherry and oaks. Trees with needles are called conifers,
on the North
Shore conifers are mainly; balsam fir, white spruce, white pine, red pine, jack pine,
and white cedar. The tamarack appears to be a species of evergreen during the
growing season, but, in fact, is deciduous, making a late-season color change to
lemon yellow and dropping it's needle looking leaves as the snow begins to fly in November. Autumn is the best
time for being out-of-doors. The bugs have pretty much died off and the
days are still warm, and the nights are cool, great for hiking, paddling, biking,
birding, sailing or
driving the North Shore of Lake Superior.
Listed below are
over 25 suggested fall color tours,
detailed for hiking, biking, driving or sailing! |
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North Shore Fall Color Tours™
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Lower North Shore
Fall Color Routes |
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NorthShoreInfo.com Top Pick - Ultimate Fall Colors -
Hiking/Biking/Driving/Birding |
The
Skyline Parkway/Hawk Ridge Tour - Hiking/Biking/Driving/Birding <<Best for
All Fall
A must visit to say you
have truly explored Duluth. Skyline Parkway overlooks the city of Duluth,
the Duluth Harbor and Lake Superior. Great views of fall colors and
incredible bird migrations!
From I35 take exit 249
and drive east. Follow signs labeled "Skyline Parkway." Hawk Ridge is one
area this routes passes through.
Direct route to Hawk
Ridge: From Downtown Duluth, drive northeast on Superior Street to 43rd
Ave. Go left from Superior Street onto 43rd Ave and drive to Glenwood
Street. Turn left onto Glenwood Street. Drive on Glenwood to the top of
the first hill to Skyline Drive. Turn right onto Skyline and go about 1
mile (about half a mile beyond the end of the pavement) to the Main
Overlook.
As an alternate route
from Interstate 35, you can drive north on I-35 to the 26th Ave / London
Road exit. Go right on London Road, which is also Highway 61 here. Turn
left onto 43rd Ave and follow the remaining directions from above.
Best all fall.
Duluth Area:
Lodging
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North Shore Fall
Color Tours™ are Sponsored by the following North Shore lodging
establishments.
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The
Two Harbors to Beaver Bay Tour - Driving <<Best for Late Fall
30 miles + 24 miles return to Two Harbors
From Hwy 61 in Two Harbors, Minnesota, drive north on Co. Rd. 3 for 28 miles to the Lax Lake Rd (Co. Rd. 4), then south on Co. Rd. 4 for 2 miles to Beaver
Bay. This
route uses Hwy 61 as a third, returning route. To continue on, see the Beaver Bay to Illgen City
Drive below. Best for late fall. Also nearby is Gooseberry State
Park.
Two Harbors: Lodging Dining
Shopping
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The
Split Rock River Loop Tour - Hiking <<Best for Late Fall
On Hwy 61 about 15 miles north of Two Harbors, park on the west side of the river.
The upstream portion of this trail sits about 60 feet above the river along a rocky ledge. On the
downstream, you'll experience overlooks of the river valley, as you head inland, you can look out to
the Big Lake Superior.
Best during the late fall season. Also nearby
is Split Rock Light house State
Park and Tettegouche State
Park. Beaver
Bay: Lodging
Dining Shopping
or Two Harbors: Lodging
Dining Shopping
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The
Superior
Hiking Trail from Castle Danger to Gooseberry Falls Tour - Hiking <<Best for
Late Fall
From Hwy 61 just past mile marker 36, in Castle Danger,
Minnesota drive north on Co. Rd. 106
(which turns into Silver Creek 617) to parking on right 8
1/2-mile hike. You may consider leaving a car at Gooseberry
Falls for this 8 1/2-mile hike. The trail runs north of
Castle Danger to Gooseberry
Falls State
Park. Trail highlights include overlooks at Wolf Rock, Crow Creek Valley and Mike's Rock. The
upper reach area of the Gooseberry River is really gorgeous. The round trip hike to the Crow Creek Overlook and
back is 2 1/2 miles. Best for late fall. Gooseberry Falls
Area: Lodging
Dining Shopping
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The
Gooseberry Fifth Falls Trail Tour - Hiking <<Best for Late Fall
From Hwy 61 head south into the Gooseberry
Falls State Park visitor center. You'll end up at the east bank of the Gooseberry
River. This 1 1/2 mile loop passes the upper Falls as it leads to the Fifth Falls.
Very enjoyable autumn stroll with great vistas.
Best during the late fall season. Gooseberry Falls
Area: Lodging Dining
Shopping
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Silver Bay to Birch Lake Dam/Ely Tour via Scenic Hwy 1
Driving/Wildlife/Birding/Fishing<<Best in September, Great throughout Spring
and Summer
The Silver Bay stretch
of approximately 55 miles, or a driving time of 1.5 hours, to the Birch Lake
Dam on scenic Highway 1, which is a two lane paved highway, runs through
some of the most beautiful terrain in the state, and is a twisty and
undulating drive. It will surely delight your senses. Some new sections of
the highway make the trip even more enjoyable. This meandering road follows
most of the original path of the early loggers to northeastern Minnesota.
Early autumn color can appear along the roadway as soon as late August, with
the highway being a blaze of color in weeks two-four in September. The
brilliant yellows of birch and aspen / poplar are highlighted by the
gorgeous reds, oranges, and melon colors of the many maples. The last 8.5
miles from the Birch Lake Dam to Ely are equally beautiful in autumn.
Opportunity abounds to view the mighty Minnesota moose along the many marshy
areas on either side of Highway 1, as well as deer and even beaver and
eagles, especially from Isabella to Ely. Other highlights are a stop at the
scenic Stony River wayside rest where the river bubbles up next to the
highway and the South Kawishiwi (Half Way) Bridge which offers great photo
opportunities viewing north toward the Boundary Waters and south toward
picturesque Birch Lake.
River Point Resort & Outfitting Co. is
bordered on the east by the South Kawishiwi River and on the west by the
Birch Lake Dam, with Birch Lake lying to the south of its private peninsula.
You can be outfitted by River Point for a Boundary Waters canoe trip for the
day or for several nights, rent kayaks and pontoon boats for an hour or the
day, plus secure lodging to further enjoy the Birch Lake Dam, which is an
all time favorite location for avid birders. First mentioned in one of the
oldest guides to birding in Minnesota, the Birch Lake Dam site has been a
hot spot for literally decades. You can even walk along the dike that
extends on either side of the dam for a better look at the surrounding
treetops. Adjacent is a gravel road which is also a birder's fun spot to
check out. You may also rent rods and reels at River Point for great fishing
from the Birch Lake Dam and shop for souvenirs, snacks and beverages at Wolf
Den Gifts.
Continue onto Ely for more of an adventure,
and then loop back for your return drive on Highway 1 to Silver Bay, or
drive to Two Harbors via Highway 1 and County Road 2, approximately 1 hour
from the Birch Lake Dam. Then continue north on Highway 61 from Two Harbor
to Silver Bay. Option: Two Harbors to Birch Lake Dam/Ely Tour. Also nearby is
Gooseberry Falls State Park and Split Rock Light house State Park.
Silver Bay:
Lodging
Dining
Shopping /
Ely: Lodging
Shopping |
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Minnesota Highway 1: Ely to Crystal Bay on Lake Superior <<Best in mid
September to mid October, Great throughout Spring and Summer
Bisecting the rugged, heavily forested Arrowhead region, Minnesota Highway 1
runs for 68 miles between the North Woods outpost of Ely and Crystal Bay on
Lake Superior. Trails and public lake accesses in Superior National Forest
and Finland State Forest provide plenty of opportunities for hiking,
fishing, cross-country skiing, and bird watching. Special attractions:
International Wolf Center and Dorothy Molter Museum in Ely.
Silver Bay: Lodging
Dining
Shopping /
Ely: Lodging
Shopping |
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The Beaver Bay to Illgen City
Tour- Driving <<Best for Mid to Late Fall
16 miles + 7 mile return to Beaver Bay. From Hwy 61 In Beaver
Bay, Minnesota drive north
on the Lax Lake Rd (Co. Rd. 4) to MN Hwy 1, then south on MN Hwy 1 to Hwy 61.
Similar backcountry terrain as route from Two Harbors to Beaver Bay. Watch
out for four legged creatures like: deer, moose and bears on this narrow winding road. A
great picnic spot is near Lax Lake, about 7.5 miles into the tour. As another
option, you can head north and follow MN Hwy 1 to Isabella or Ely. Best
for mid to late fall. Also nearby is
Gooseberry Falls State Park and Split Rock Light house State Park.
Beaver Bay: Lodging Dining
Shopping
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The
Section 13 Tour - Hiking <<Best for Early Fall
From Hwy 61 at Little Marais, drive north on Co. Rd. 6 for 2 miles to Superior Hiking Trail sign and parking.
Hike through the forest before climbing the sugar maple ridges
that are incredibly bright orange and red.
Trail is 4 1/2 mile round trip. Best for early fall.
Also nearby is Crosby Manitou State
Park and Tettegouche State
Park.
Little
Marais: Lodging Dining
Shopping
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Upper
North Shore Fall Color Routes |
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NorthShoreInfo.com
Top
Pick - Ultimate Fall Colors - Driving/Hiking/Biking |
The
Heartbreak Ridge Tour - Driving/Hiking/biking <<Best for Early Fall
From Hwy 61 about a half mile east of Schroeder, Minnesota head north on
the Temperance River Rd (FR 343), then east/right turn on FR 166 and
south/right turn on the Sawbill Trail (Co. Rd. 2) Heartbreak Ridge is just
east of the junction FR 343 and 166. Make this North Shore fall color tour
the first one your list. It is GREAT! The drive leads you down one of the
prettiest sugar maple drives along Minnesota's North Shore. A roadside
plaque explains how Heartbreak Ridge was named.
Also nearby is Temperance River
State Park. Best during the early fall season.
Tofte: Lodging
Dining Shopping
Hiking or
Lutsen: Lodging Dining
Shopping Hiking
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The
Carlton Peak Tour - Hiking <<Best for Mid to Late Fall
From Hwy 61 in Tofte, Minnesota drive north on Sawbill Trail (Co. Rd. 2) about 2 miles to parking area on right
You'll witness resistant gray anorthosite form Carlton's Peak. This peak
over looks views of the maple forests you will cross to reach the summit. A nearby overlook has
incredible views of the Big Lake Superior, Tofte and the Temperance River Valley. Also
nearby is Temperance River State
Park.
Best
for mid to late fall. Tofte: Lodging
Dining Shopping
Hiking
or Lutsen: Lodging Dining
Shopping Hiking
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The
Britton Peak Tour - Hiking <<Best for Mid to Late Fall
From Hwy 61 in Tofte, Minnesota drive north on Sawbill Trail (Co. Rd. 2) about 2 miles to parking area on right.
A rather steep half-mile grade leads to Britton's Peak with views of
the Big Lake, Carlton's Peak to the west. Best for mid to late
fall. Also nearby is
Temperance River State Park.
Tofte: Lodging
Dining Shopping
Hiking
or Lutsen: Lodging Dining
Shopping Hiking
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The Railroad Grade (FR
170) Tour - Driving/Wildlife <<Great all Fall
Logically named "The Grade," this old forest railroad grade was
once used to log white pine, back in the logging boom days. 15 miles of Forest road between Sawbill & Caribou Trails. From Hwy
61 in Tofte, Minnesota drive
north on the Sawbill Trail (Co. Rd. 2) to FR 170, east on FR 170 to Caribou Trail (Co. Rd. 4), return
south on Co. Rd. 4 to Hwy 61. This drive is awesome anytime of the year.
Many big bull moose have seen sighted on this route, watch out for moose on
the roadway as you travel. Also nearby is
Temperance River State Park.
Tofte: Lodging
Dining Shopping
Hiking
or Lutsen: Lodging Dining
Shopping Hiking
or Grand Marais: Lodging
Dining Shopping
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NorthShoreInfo.com
Top
Pick - Ultimate Fall Colors - Hiking |
The
Oberg Mountain Tour - Hiking <<Best for Early Fall [
Oberg Mountain Images ]
From Hwy 61 about 5 miles north of Tofte, Minnesota drive north on FR 336 for 2 miles to parking.
This North Shore maple hillside will blow your expectations. Hike includes
overlooks, so don't forget your camera! Best during the early fall season. Also
nearby is Temperance River State
Park.
Tofte: Lodging
Dining Shopping
Hiking
or Lutsen: Lodging Dining
Shopping Hiking
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The
White Sky Rock Tour - Hiking <<Best for Early Fall
From Hwy 61, in Lutsen, Minnesota drive north on the Caribou Trail (Co. Rd. 4)
in Lutsen, Minnesota, about 4 miles to the brown and
yellow trailhead sign. Quarter mile steep trek leads to the overlook of Caribou Lake and the surrounding
sugar maple forests.
Best during the early fall. Also nearby is
Temperance River State Park. Tofte: Lodging
Dining Shopping
Hiking
or Lutsen: Lodging Dining
Shopping Hiking
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NorthShoreInfo.com
Top
Pick - Ultimate Fall Colors - Sailing!
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Lake Superior Fall Colors |
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North
House Folk School
2 hour cruise aboard the 50 foot Schooner from Grand
Marais, Minnesota |
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A 2-hour sail that begins with an introduction to
the 50 foot gaff rigged Schooner "Hjørdis." From the North
House Folk School - Grand Marais harbor, the cruise will journey along the shore a distance that will allow participants to experience the spectacular
nature of the Sawtooth Mountain Range as it changes from the greens of
summer to the reds, oranges and yellows of autumn. The true nature of this
annual event can only be fully appreciated from this offshore perspective.
The schooner's last day sailing is approx. October 15th.
Subject to change.
Call (218)387-9762 for pricing and availability. Or toll free 888-387-9762.
>>Please ask about proper clothing for cold
weather.
Sailing Dates: Now through
mid October.
Location:
North House Folk School is located on the Grand Marais harbor directly across
from the HWY 61 and Old Gunflint Trail (County Road 15) intersection.
Registration and additional info can be found at the North House in the
large blue building. Grand
Marais: Lodging
Dining
Shopping
Hiking or Gunflint
Trail: Lodging
Dining
Hiking
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North
Shore Fall Color Tours™ are Sponsored by the following North
Shore lodging establishments. |
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The
Pincushion Mountain/Devil Track Loop Tour - Driving/Hiking/Birding <<Best for Early
to Mid Fall
From Hwy 61 in Grand Marais, Minnesota head north on the Gunflint Trail (Co. Rd.
12/two lane paved road) for 2 miles to CR 53, go
east/right on Co. Rd. 53 to parking. The Gunflint Trail climbs 1000 feet in the first few miles to a
fabulous maple ridgeline. The Pincushion Mountain and Devil Track River Trails lead through these maples to
the overlooks of the Big Lake, and the maple forests and falls of the Devil Track River. Great
bird migration spot. Best
for Early to Mid Fall. Grand Marais: Lodging
Dining Shopping
Hiking or Gunflint
Trail: Lodging
Dining Hiking
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The
Maple Hill Tour - Driving <<Best for Early Fall
From Hwy 61 in Grand Marais, Minnesota drive north on the
Gunflint Trail (Co. Rd. 12/two lane paved road) for 4 miles to Co. Rd. 54, just past Co. Rd. 8,
take a left turn on the gravel. This is a very short route of less than 2
miles, but is one of the most picturesque scene during fall colors. You'll see the Maple Hill Church surrounded by
maples. Best during the early fall. Grand Marais: Lodging
Dining Shopping
Hiking or Gunflint
Trail: Lodging
Dining Hiking
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The
Trout Lake Road/Country Roads 14 and 60 Tour - Driving/Hiking/Biking <<Best for
Early Season Maples and Mid to Late Fall for Birch and Poplar.
From Hwy 61 in Grand Marais, Minnesota drive north on the Gunflint Trail (Co. Rd.
12/two lane paved road) for about 9 miles and turn right on the Trout Lake
Road. The Trout Lake Road is a good gravel road which winds its way
through the Superior National Forest. Drive with caution, there are sharp
corners, watch for other traffic. There are numerous places to stop
and get out of the vehicle. Including many public fishing docks, where you
can get a great look at the opposing shorelines. Mink, Kimball, Scabbord,
Trout Lake and the Kadunce Creek dot the landscape for the next 6 miles
before the road ends at Country Road 14. We recommend turning right onto
Country Road 14. After you pass over the Kadunce Creek the forest will
primarily turn into sugar maples and balsam fir. Country Road 14 ends 5
miles down the hill at Highway 61 on the shore of Superior. On Highway 61
it's 6 miles back to Grand Marais, Minnesota.
Another option for this
route is taking Country Road 60 back to the Gunflint Trail, then stopping
at the Pincushion Overlook. So, instead of traveling all the way down the
hill on Country Road 14, take a right turn onto Country Road 60 2½ miles
after you turn onto Country Road 14 from the Trout lake Road. Country Road
60 is packed rather densely with sugar maples that form a bright orange
and red canopy over the road. Drive 6 miles back to the
Gunflint Trail. Take a left turn on the Gunflint and drive 2½ miles and
turn left on County Road 53 to visit the Pincushion overlook above Grand
Marais or try more routes up the Gunflint Trail. See also the other five
Gunflint Trail Fall Color Tours below: Lima
Mountain, Honeymoon Bluff, Gunflint High Cliffs, or the Maple Hill and the Pincushion
Tours above.
Best during the
mid to late fall. Grand Marais: Lodging
Dining Shopping
Hiking or Gunflint
Trail: Lodging
Dining Hiking
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The
Lima Mountain Tour - Driving/Wildlife <<Best for Late Fall
From Hwy 61 in Grand Marais, Minnesota drive north on the Gunflint Trail (Co. Rd.
12/two lane paved road) for about 20 miles to
Forest Road FR152, drive
west on FR 152 for about 2 miles to FR 315, go south on FR 315 to
the South Brule Rd. ( FR 325 ) drive east on the South Brule Rd. back to
the Gunflint Trail (Co. Rd. 12). Great chances for viewing moose! Best during the late fall season.
Grand Marais: Lodging
Dining Shopping
Hiking or Gunflint
Trail: Lodging
Dining Hiking
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The
Honeymoon Bluff Tour - Hiking <<Best for Late Fall
From Hwy 61 in Grand Marais, drive north on the Gunflint Trail (Co. Rd.
12/two lane paved road) for
32 miles to Co. Rd. 66, head east(right) on Co. Rd. 66 to the
Honeymoon Bluff trailhead.
Best during the late fall season. Grand Marais: Lodging
Dining Shopping
Hiking or Gunflint
Trail: Lodging
Dining Hiking
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The
High Cliffs of Gunflint Lake Tour - Driving/Hiking <<Best for Late Fall
From Hwy 61 in Grand Marais, drive north on the Gunflint Trail (Co. Rd.
12/two lane paved road) for 45 miles to the South Gunflint Lake Road, Co. Rd.
50, head east(right) 1 mile on Co. Rd. 50 to the Gunflint Lodge, or Gunflint Pines Resort, 1½ miles. There is parking at both
establishments and you can ask for a map of the High Cliffs hiking route
and many others.
Best during the late fall season. Grand Marais: Lodging
Dining Shopping
Hiking or Gunflint
Trail: Lodging
Dining Hiking
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Day Trip to Rose Lake Tour - Canoeing <<Great Anytime of Year
Guided Day Canoe Trip to Rose Lake Perhaps one of the most beautiful fall canoe trips in the area is a paddle to the famous Rose Lake Stairway Portage and falls. Climb the Palisades along the
Border Trail for a spectacular view of the lake and fall colors below and Canada's Arrow Lake Palisades to the north. Trip takes you through West Bearskin and Duncan Lake to the Rose Lake Portage.Along the Rose Lake Portage you will encounter
the falls and the famous one hundred twenty five stairs of the Stairway Portage. Relax along side the Lake's crystal clear water, climb the cavernous rock pile adjacent to
stairway portage, visit mining test pit and hike to the palisades. Most importantly, do not forget your camera!
Many veteran BWCA travelers and guides have described Rose Lake, with its falls, stairway portage, spectacular palisade, and crystal clear water as one of the area's most
beautiful lakes. Go to
BWCA Canoe Outfitters for canoe rental.
Grand Marais: Lodging
Dining Shopping
Hiking or Gunflint
Trail: Lodging
Dining Hiking
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The Clearwater Highland Trail Tour - Mountain Biking <<Great for All Fall Color Season
Mountain Bike the
Clearwater Highland Trail Pedal up the Clearwater Highlands Trail passing
several overlooks with spectacular views of the Fall forest below. A short
side trips take you to the Beauty Lake palisades and another great view of
the surrounding forest below. From the highlands trail you pedal past Hungry
Jack Lake then return via the Clearwater Road. Portions of this nine-mile
loop are fairly roughed. Adding additional trail section along the
Clearwater Road can lengthen the bike trail.Grand Marais: Lodging
Dining Shopping
Hiking or Gunflint
Trail: Lodging
Dining Hiking
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The
Gunflint Trail Tour - Driving/Biking/Wildlife <<Best for Late Fall
From Hwy 61 in Grand Marais, drive north on the Gunflint Trail (Co. Rd.
12/two lane paved road) for 58 miles to the end of the road at Gull Lake.
Wildlife you may see include: moose, black bear, wolves, and deer. Best during the late fall season.
See also the other six
Gunflint Trail Fall Color Tours above: Trout Lake/Country Road 14 and 60, High Cliffs, Honeymoon Bluff, Lima
Mountain, Maple Hill, and the Pincushion Tours. Grand Marais: Lodging
Dining Shopping
Hiking or Gunflint
Trail: Lodging
Dining Hiking
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The
Arrowhead Trail/Hovland Lookout Tower Tour - Hiking/Driving/Wildlife <<Best for Early to Mid
Fall
From Hwy 61 in Hovland, Minnesota go north on the Arrowhead Trail (Co. Rd. 16) 2 1/2 miles, then
turn left on the Tower Road for 1 1/2 miles. The last 1/2 mile is non
motorized to the tower. This lookout ridge has good views
of fall colors and the Big Lake anytime of year. Also the Arrowhead Trail
is one of the best places for wildlife viewing, from Hwy 61 in Hovland,
Minnesota the Arrowhead Trail travels 16 miles to its end at McFarland
Lake. Chances are good you'll see: moose, wolves, black bear, red fox, and
deer! After visiting the Lookout Tower you could continue north on
the Arrowhead Trail Drive with caution, use your headlights if the road is dusty.
Best for Early to mid fall. Grand Marais: Lodging
Dining Shopping
Hiking or Grand
Portage: Lodging
Hiking
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NorthShoreInfo.com
Top
Pick - Ultimate Fall Colors - Hiking/Birding/Panoramic Views |
The
Mount Josephine Tour - Hiking/Birding <<Great all Fall
From Hwy 61 in Grand Marais, Minnesota drive northeast towards
Canada about a half an hour. Turn left on Co. Rd. 17 to a parking area.
Spectacular v iews of the Big Lake and the islands from Mount Jo's summits,
great lookout area regardless of time of year. Good place to watch
migrating birds such as bald eagles, falcons, turkey vultures and hawks. Great all Fall.
Also nearby is Grand
Portage State Park. Grand Marais: Lodging
Dining Shopping
Hiking or Grand
Portage: Lodging
Hiking
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