29 Incredible Hidden Gems on the North Shore, MN (Must-Sees)
There are so many amazing hidden gems on the North Shore of Minnesota that lots of people skip over during their visits for more popular destinations.
I visit the North Shore often, at least once a month, and sometimes I completley skip the popular spots and head straight for these off the beaten path places because there are fewer people!
I grew up an hour from the North Shore and my family spent tons of time there during every season. Spoiler alert, this post includes my favorite places (my absolute favorite is #9 – Caribou Falls!).
In this post, I’ll let you in on all of the best places to go to avoid the crowds and see more of our beautiful North Shore.
Best Hidden Gems on Minnesota’s North Shore
1. Ely’s Peak & the DWP Tunnel
There are a lot of great hikes on the North Shore, but starting right in Duluth, there’s one that I really love!
Ely’s Peak is a stunning overlook that you can see Lake Superior and the city of Duluth from. It’s a pretty challening climb to the top, but as long as you learn from my mistakes and on the trail (oops!), you’ll make it just fine! It’s especially gorgeous during fall when the leaves change.
It’s a really beautiful trail and honestly, one of the North Shore’s best hidden gems!
2. Agate Bay Beach
Many people fly right past Two Harbors on their way onto the shore, but I’d recommend making a stop at Agate Bay Beach.
This small beach right on the shore of Lake Superior gives you a good chance at finding agates, hence the name.
I haven’t actually ever found one, but they say that if you show up right after a storm, there are often a few resting on the beach.
3. Hungry Hippie Tacos
Hungry? Make a stop at Hungry Hippie Tacos in Grand Marais. This small North Shore restaurant has gained more traction in recent years, but it’s still a great option!
I recommend the Northern Taco, which is their most popular choice and is made with a fry bread as the base. It’s. So. Good.
4. Iona’s Beach
This is another small beach that a lot of people fly past and never look back, unlike other popular spots like Black Beach.
It’s made entirely of these shiny pink rocks that seem to sing when they crash along the shore. We had the whole beach to ourselves during our last visit, and it was so nice to sit and just listen to the relaxing sounds of the lake.
5. Wauswaugoning Bay Overlook/Susie Islands Overlook
The North Shore is packed with lookouts, but most of them are super busy. This one is found way up by Grand Portage and isn’t usually too busy.
The Wauswaugoning Bay Overlook (otherwise known as the Susie Islands Overlook) lets you look out over Lake Superior, and you can even see Isle Royale from the overlook!
It’s a really beautiful spot, and allows you to get up over the lake. It’s especially gorgeous in fall, just like anywhere else on the shore is.
6. George Crosby Manitou State Park
You’ve probably heard of or been to Tettegouche and Gooseberry Falls State Parks. But have you been to George Crosby Manitou?
This small park is tucked off of Highway 61 and has become a favorite of mine.
It has tons of really great hiking trails that lead along the river and the gorges and it’s just stunning. Plus there are so few people, so you really have a lot of the park to yourself most of the time!
This and Cascade River State Park have also been known for being great cross country skiing locations on the North Shore.
7. World’s Best Donuts
I love me a good dessert, so when I heard about World’s Best Donuts, you know I was there! They serve fresh, handmade donuts and as soon as you step inside, you’ll be drooling.
My favorites are their Skizzles, but there are tons of options and honestly, any of them are amazing.
8. North Shore Scenic Railroad
The North Shore Scenic Railroad station is found right in Duluth, just before leaving for the shore.
There are a variety of train rides throughout the year that allow you to experience the North Shore in a different way.
I remember riding it when I was around 10 years old with my entire family and grandparents because my grandpa loved trains. It’s something I’ll remember forever!
This is also a great way to enjoy the fall season in Duluth, since you’ll get to stay inside and stay warm.
9. Caribou Falls
One of my favorite parts of the North Shore is visiting waterfalls, but I don’t really love the crowds that come along with them.
But Caribou Falls isn’t like that, and you can actually visit it with probably no other people around. This is actually my personal favorite off the beaten path spots on the North Shore.
It’s a smaller waterfall that drops into a pool. I’ve heard that people even swim here, although it was too cold when we last visited.
10. North Shore Scenic Drive
You’re probably familiar with the main drive up the North Shore, which is known as Highway 61. But maybe you haven’t ever done the real North Shore Scenic Highway.
This is the old highway that starts just outside of Duluth by Brighton Beach and continues all the way until right before Two Harbors.
It is a little slower since it’s just a two-lane, but the scenic views are so much better than the highway! Sometimes we take it if we want to slow down and don’t mind taking our time, especially if it’s a rainy day and we need an indoor activity.
There are tons of great stops along the way, as well as restaurants, and quite a few nice log cabins to stay in.
11. Leif Erickson Park
Growing up, my family always visited Leif Erikson Park in Duluth rather than Canal Park because it was so much less crowded.
There’s a beautiful walkway along the lake, beaches that you can walk on, views of the Aerial Lift Bridge, and a gorgeous rose garden.
Plus the Lakewalk runs right through the park, so you can hop on that explore more.
We would always walk down to the lake and search for sea glass. It’s where I found my love for sea glass, and I have a collection now!
12. White Sky Rock
I somehow hadn’t heard of White Sky Rock until last year, and honestly, I can’t believe that I hadn’t, based on how beautiful it is!
It’s a tough climb to the top, and I promise you, your legs will be screaming. But after you’ve made it, the views are incredible.
I would recommend going during the fall because you get to see those gorgeous yellows, reds, and oranges surrounding Caribou Lake. It just feels magical.
13. Rustic Inn
So everyone’s heard of Betty’s Pies, and if you’ve visited the North Shore, you’ve probably stopped for a slice of their famous pie.
But if you’ve never been to Rustic Inn, you’re missing out because they have, dare I say, even better pie. 😲
We actually tried similar slices at each side by side, and that’s how we came to that conclusion. My order is always a slice of raspberry cream and a slice of North Shore berry crumb.
14. Grand Marais Sled Dog Adventures
Something really unique to do during a visit to the North Shore during winter is to go dog sledding with Grand Marais Sled Dog Adventures.
You’ll almost feel like you’ve been transported to Alaska as you fly through the snow-covered trees on a dog sled. It’s really magical.
Plus, you’ll be supporting a small, local business and having a once-in-a-lifetime experience, right here in Minnesota!
15. Two Harbors Lighthouse
Lots of people drive straight through Two Harbors to head to the ‘better’ cities like Lutsen and Grand Marais. But then you’ll miss visiting the Two Harbors Lighthouse!
This small lighthouse can be reached by a short breakwater that juts out into Lake Superior. You just walk along the breakwater and you can get nice and close to it.
It’s not a super big lighthouse, but the views of the lake are really pretty, and it’s worth the quick stop.
16. Fifth Falls
Most people stop at Gooseberry Falls during their trip, but for me, it’s just way too crowded. So instead, I keep going to Fifth Falls.
It’s in the same state park, but is just a bit further of a hike to a beautiful waterfall where there are almost always no people.
Last time, we packed a lunch and ate at the falls. We didn’t see a single other person at Fifth Falls, which is unheard of at Gooseberry.
17. Grand Portage National Monument
Minnesota only has a few sites that are in the National Park Service, and Grand Portage National Monument is one of them.
If you’re a history lover, then you’ll love stopping at the monument to learn about the Great Lakes Fur Trade and how Lake Superior played a role in transportation between the US and Canada years ago.
18. Beaver Bay Wayside
We found Beaver Bay Wayside a few years back when I needed to stop and use the bathroom. And ever since, it’s been a favorite for us!
It’s just off the road in Beaver Bay, and if you blink, you’ll miss it. But there’s a huge waterfall here known as Beaver Falls.
The falls aren’t anything wild, just cascading water, but honestly it’s really beautiful, a nice place to stop and stretch your legs, and if you visit in spring, the water is usually flowing super fast and strong!
I like to walk along the bridge a little bit to get a better view!
19. Cove Point Crossings
Just across the street from Beaver Bay Wayside is Cove Point Crossings. This stop might not seem like much, but they have some super good wings.
A few summers ago, they had a special with a blueberry barbeque wing sauce and I still dream about it. I don’t think they have it anymore, but either way, the wings are too good to pass up. Plus, they give you a huge serving size, so I always have leftovers.
20. North Shore Scenic Lookout
This is another nice lookout, this time over Two Harbors. We found it when we were looking for somewhere to stop and cook dinner.
It’s a drive up a short but steep hill, and then you have a few really great lookouts over Lake Superior and the city. It’s really gorgeous in fall, and there’s even a little platform to look out on.
We haven’t actually ever seen anyone else up here when we’ve visited, but that doesn’t make it any less worth the stop!
21. Two Step Falls
If you’re visiting Tettegouche State Park, then you might be visiting one of Minnesota’s best waterfalls, High Falls of the Baptism River. But did you know that there’s another waterfall on the same trail to also see?!
Two Step Falls is tricky to get to, as you’ll need to climb down (and back up!) 200 stairs. But it’s so worth the time! It’s a small flowing waterfall that rarely gets any visitors.
We loved stopping and eating our lunch here as we watched everyone else pass by because we didn’t have to share the views with anyone!
22. Seven Bridges Road
I love finding off the beaten path scenic drives, and that’s exactly what Seven Bridges Road is!
It starts right down by Lester Park and meets up with Skyline Parkway near Snively Trail. Seven Bridges Road passes by Amity Park, some of the best waterfalls near Duluth, and leads you to one of the best views of the city.
You’ll get to see the city of Duluth from above as well as have views of Lake Superior. It’s really a spectacular viewpoint that is unmatched!
23. Gunflint Trail
Most people skip the Gunflint Trail because it is pretty long. But there’s a lot to see and do here, so I would schedule in some time for it if you can because it’s a great hidden gem on the North Shore.
You’ll have great chances to spot wildlife, even moose and bears! Plus there are great hikes to places like Magnetic Rock and Honeymoon Bluff.
Plus, if you like canoeing, you’ll be able to have some pretty great access to the Boundary Waters!
24. Illgen Falls
There are a couple of hidden waterfalls on the shore, and Illgen Falls is one of them!
It’s pretty close to High Falls, and is actually in Tettegouche State Park. But it is on a different trail.
The trail is short though, and the falls are absolutley beautiful! Well worth the detour!
25. Schroeder Baking Company
Whether you’re looking for breakfast or just need a snack, Shroeder Baking Company has got your back. They serve super yummy breakfast sandwiches, muffins, donuts, and other pastries.
It’s a nice little stop in Shroeder on your way up the shore, and is great if you just need something quick to grab and go!
26. Eckbeck Campground
We love to camp, but hate the crowds that come with state park camping and other popular campgrounds. Which is how we found Eckbeck.
It is first come, first served, but we’ve never had a problem getting a spot. That’s because it’s so off the beaten path and you can enjoy it without the crowds!
Remember though that it’s primitive, so there are very limited facilities. However, you’re close to town so if you don’t need much, you’ll be all good!
27. North Shore Camping Co.
If you don’t love primitive camping, then North Shore Camping Co. is the best bet for you. This is a newer campground, and it is a beautiful spot for glamping.
It has more luxurious set ups like glamping tents, warm blankets, cooking essentials, and game nights.
Honestly this is perfect for those who want to go camping but don’t want to have to worry about setting up a tent or bringing camping gear.
28. Shook Smoothies
If you know me, you’ll know that I love smoothie bowls. I have one almost every day for breakfast, so I was SO pumped to learn about Shook Smoothies in Grand Marais.
This food truck serves up some of the most delicious smoothie bowls, and they even have some poke bowls on the menu.
It’s the perfect place to grab breakfast or lunch while you’re exploring the shore. It’s an especially refreshing meal, which I really love!
29. Naniboujou Lodge
I always love finding unique restaurants when I travel, and the Naniboujou Lodge in Grand Portage is somewhere that you are not going to want to miss.
The entire dining room is painted with bright, elegant colors that capture the cultural importance of this area. Every wall, plus the ceiling is painted with these colors and it’s just stunning.
And when it comes to their food, they offer delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner seasonally. Their menus change throughout the year, and may even change by the day.
Wrap-Up: Hidden Gems on the North Shore
If you’re taking a visit to the North Shore and are looking for the best off the beaten path places, these are going to help you fill your itinerary! I have loved exploring these places after growing up near the North Shore, and know that you’ll love them too, for all of your adventures.
