Chasing waterfalls and sea caves on Superior's edge
Chasing waterfalls and sea caves on Superior's edge
Two Harbors, MN 55616La Pointe, WI 54850
Trip overview
Embark on an epic loop around the western tip of Lake Superior, exploring Minnesota's rugged North Shore and Wisconsin's pristine Apostle Islands. This wilderness road trip serves up cascading waterfalls, soaring pine forests, historic lighthouses, and dramatic sandstone sea caves.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1 — Two Harbors
Betty's Pies
An iconic North Shore staple since 1958, famous for its legendary five-layer pies and classic drive-in diner fare.
1633 MN-61, Two Harbors, MN 55616
Split Rock Lighthouse
One of the most photographed lighthouses in the United States, perched dramatically on a sheer 130-foot cliff above the turbulent waters of Lake Superior.
3713 MN-61, Two Harbors, MN 55616
East Bay Suites
Nestled right on the shoreline of Lake Superior's East Bay, this cozy lodge offers stunning water views and immediate access to the charming town of Grand Marais.
21 Wisconsin St, Grand Marais, MN 55604
Day 2 — Lutsen
Pincushion Mountain Trail System
Climb up to the rocky overlook of Pincushion Mountain for a breathtaking, panoramic view of Grand Marais Harbor and the vast, endless horizon of Lake Superior.
Pincushion Mountain Rd, Grand Marais, MN 55604
Day 3 — Grand Portage
Grand Portage National Monument
Step back in time to explore the historic fur trade depot of the North West Company and learn about the deep-rooted heritage of the local Ojibwe people.
170 Mile Creek Rd, Grand Portage, MN 55605
Dovetail Cafe & Marketplace
A vibrant cafe located inside the Duluth Folk School, serving exceptional craft coffee, local beers, and wholesome, locally sourced light bites.
1902 W Superior St, Duluth, MN 55806
Old Rittenhouse Inn
A landmark Victorian bed and breakfast overlooking Lake Superior, offering elegant historic charm, cozy fireplaces, and renowned gourmet dining.
301 Rittenhouse Ave, Bayfield, WI 54814
Day 4 — Bayfield
Meyers Beach Sea Caves Kayaking
Launch a sea kayak from Meyers Beach to paddle right inside the spectacularly sculpted, prehistoric red sandstone sea caves of the Apostle Islands.
Meyers Beach Rd, Bayfield, WI 54814
Big Water Cafe and Roastery
Refuel with artisan coffee roasted in-house and fresh, delicious baked goods in a warm, welcoming community atmosphere in downtown Bayfield.
117 Rittenhouse Ave, Bayfield, WI 54814
Big Bay State Park
Located on Madeline Island, this park features a stunning 1.5-mile beach, rugged sandstone ledges, and dramatic cliff-edge trails over the pounding surf.
2402 Hagen Rd, La Pointe, WI 54850
Experiences & guides
Bookable tours and stops worth a detour along this route.
National Parks
Cane River Creole National Historical Park
National Historical Park
El Camino Real de los Tejas National Historic Trail
National Historic Trail
Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve
National Historical Park and Preserve
New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park
National Historical Park
Poverty Point National Monument
National Monument
Vicksburg National Military Park
National Military Park
Guide content may not reflect current conditions. Always verify information before your trip.
Frequently asked questions
The Lake Superior Circle road trip covers about 414 mi and roughly 8h 25m of driving, comfortably spread across about 4 days.
This itinerary maps out 10 stops from Two Harbors, MN 55616 to La Pointe, WI 54850. Highlights include Split Rock Lighthouse, Meyers Beach Sea Caves Kayaking, and Big Bay State Park.
It begins in Two Harbors, MN 55616 and ends in La Pointe, WI 54850, following a mapped, road-following route the whole way.
The estimated cost is around $1,193, covering fuel, lodging, food, and activities. Your actual total varies with the season, your pace, and the choices you make along the way.
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