a day / 143 miles / 4 hours 45 minutes
This byway follows the majestic shoreline of Lake Superior, the world's largest freshwater lake. Experience some of the most spectacular scenery in the country. The drive provides access to eight state parks, and the Superior National Forest and offers unlimited opportunities to enjoy the outdoors in all seasons.
Day 1
9:00 - 0.0 miles / - 9:00
Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center
The Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center, located at the
beginning of the North Shore Scenic Drive on Canal Park Drive in
Duluth, is operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The museum
offers an excellent introduction to the shipping industry for a new
visitor to the North Shore.
The visitor center is adjacent to the one-of-a-kind Aerial Lift
Bridge and Duluth Ship Canal, where visitors can see giant
freighters pass within mere feet of them.9:45 - 3.4 miles / 6 minutes - 9:51
Glensheen, featured on the popular A & E program, "America's
Castles" was built between 1905 and 1908 by Chester Congdon. The
house, located on tree-lined London Road, resembles an early
seventeenth century English country estate. This house is unique
due to the fact that most of the original furnishings of 1908 are
still in the home. Over 2 million people have visited Glensheen
since tours began in 1979.11:21 - 21.1 miles / 42 minutes - 12:04
Visit the birthplace of Minnesota, Mining & Manufacturing (3M), and the world's only museum dedicated to sandpaper.
12:34 - 1.5 miles / 2 minutes - 12:37
The Edna G. served Two Harbors from 1896 to 1981. It was
designated a National Historic Site in 1974, as the only steam-powered tug still operating on the Great Lakes.
Now retired, the Edna G. features seasonal tours where visitors
can see her beautiful interior decor of wood paneling and brass
fittings. Visitors will get a look at the captains quarters, the
engine room, the crew's quarters, the galley, and the pilot
house.12:57 - 15.8 miles / 31 minutes - 13:28
This trail is a 150-mile long multiple use trail that is
beautiful during all four seasons, and it has become a very popular
snowmobiling route. The trail winds through the rugged bluffs that
overlook Lake Superior. Spur trails that are near the North Shore
Scenic Drive in Duluth and Two Harbors have access to the North
Shore State Trail.13:28 - 2.0 miles / 4 minutes - 13:32
Split Rock Lighthouse State Park
As one of the best known landmarks for the North Shore Drive, Split Rock Lighthouse is a beacon in more ways than one. Built in 1909 as a result of so many shipwrecks resulting from storms, the lighthouse now operates a historical site where visitors can tour the structure and learn more about life in a lighthouse.
In addition to this intriguing historical site, visitors have a large selection of outdoor activities to choose from at the state park. Sites are provided for camping and picnicking. Many travelers try their luck at fishing, while others explore the Superior Hiking Trail.14:17 - 21.3 miles / 42 minutes - 15:00
Little Marais, named by Scandinavians for a nearby marsh, is one of the main communities found along the North Shore. And Little Marais has more to offer than just a marsh. It is a community that provides an excellent atmosphere for enjoying the seasons of the North Shore Scenic Byway. Located on the shore of Lake Superior, visitors will snap some of their most picturesque photos here. Outdoor activities are at traveler's fingertips in Little Marais. With a great appreciation of the arts, the town holds community festivals featuring local artists and tradesmen.
15:30 - 77.7 miles / 2 hours 35 minutes - 18:05