Duluth, MN is at the western extremity of Lake Superior and about 150 miles north of the hustle and bustle of Minneapolis' skyscraper filled city life. Rated in the top ten of "America's Greatest Outside Towns," by Outside magazine, Duluth is the only mid- western community listed next to the likes of Santa Barbara, CA, Santa Fe, NM, and Bellingham, WA. Known for its rocky shoreline along the spectacular views of the largest freshwater lake in the world, Duluth is an outdoor adventure junkie's haven.
With 129 municipal parks, 2 golf courses, 45 miles of snowmobile trails, and dozens of rivers and creeks, Duluth offers a different outdoor activity for each day of the week. One of the more popular attractions for outdoor aficionados is the Superior Hiking Trail. This winding 210 mile long trail begins just north of Duluth and extends all the way to the Canadian border. There are no fees, reservations or permits required to hike the trail, and with parking lots every 5- 10 miles, the SHT is ideal for both day trips and backpacking. Heading into the city, the Duluth Lakewalk is one of the most scenic walking and biking paths around Lake Superior. The walk is more than 3 miles long, just south of the enjoyably archaic Aerial Lift Bridge, where you can watch 1,000 foot- long ore boats sail effortlessly beneath the primitive lift. The lake walk eventually turns towards beautiful Canal Park. Quaint pubs, restaurants with spectacular views and affordable hotels are dotted along the paved path with convenient access for those wanting to get on or off of the walkway. Little Angie's Cantina, in Canal Park, is a preferred restaurant and pub- especially on a nice day when you can catch a breeze while enjoying the view. A skip away is Grandma's Saloon and Bar, which has been providing locals with food, fun and a fantastic nightlife for over 30 years. For those history buffs who enjoy mixing a bit of knowledge with relaxation, check out the free Lake Superior Marine Museum, also located within the park.
And just before the sun sets over the soft glow of the city, hop in the car and take a journey up the magnificent North Shore Scenic Drive. A mixture of breathtaking views of an inland sea, majestic looking waterfalls and a mountainous backdrop, this drive is for both the romantics and those in awe of nature in its purest form. With so much untouched wilderness and uninhabited beauty encompassed within one city, Duluth is a place you'll want to come back to again and again.
Click the subscribe button above to receive all the latest tips, deals and favored destinations at home and abroad.