Best Spots For Fall Colors In The Iron Range
The Iron Range of Minnesota is known for its large iron ore deposits and mining. But this area in the northeast region of our state is also steeped in beauty, particularly when the trees begin to change color from mid-September to mid-October. There are exceptional opportunities here for scenic drives, recreational outings and peaceful moments in nature. For some of the best spots to enjoy majestic colors in the Iron Range, don't miss our suggestions below and also visit Best Places To See Fall Colors In Minnesota to experience more unbelievable autumn views in our state.
(credit: CBS)
Cascade River State Park
3481 W. Highway 61
Lutsen, MN 55612
(218) 387-3053
www.dnr.state.mn.us
Cascade River State Park is a fabulous way to take in the kaleidoscope of autumn colors along the North Shore. Visitors to the park can hike to the top of Lookout Mountain to get a breathtaking view of Lake Superior from 600 feet, or enjoy the colorful leaves against the rushing Cascade River waterfall. There are 18 miles of trails within the park with access to the Superior Hiking Trail and the North Shore State Trail. When you're ready to enjoy a leisurely picnic amongst the changing leaves, relax at one of the seven picnic areas along the 1.5 miles of Lake Superior shoreline.
Northern Lights Tour
Between Ely, Virginia and Hoyt Lakes
Northeast Minnesota
www.ironrange.org
Northern Lights is one of the best fall color tours in Minnesota. Traveling through Bear Head Lake State Park, Superior National Forest and the Laurentian Divide, there are plenty of unbelievable vistas to experience. The entire route spans 155 miles and covers interesting stops like Soudan Underground Mine and the International Wolf Center in Ely. Don't forget to bring along your camera and binoculars to catch a glimpse of bald eagles and migrating geese.
Mesabi Trail
Between Grand Rapids and Biwabik
Northeastern Minnesota
(218) 744-1388
www.mesabitrail.com
If you're looking for an active way to take in the spectacular fall colors of northeastern Minnesota, try biking, skating or walking the paved Mesabi Trail. The trail currently spans 115 miles from Grand Rapids to Biwabik, but is being expanded. When completed, it will connect 28 communities over 132 miles and head all the way up to Ely. The most scenic spots along the trail include the Pike River Rock Cut and the top of Mount Rust which overlooks the Continental Divide.
(credit: Stacy Huberty/Hastings)
Superior National Forest Scenic Byway
Between Aurora and Silver Bay
Northeastern Minnesota
www.superiorbyways.com
The Superior National Forest Scenic Byway takes you from the Iron Range to Lake Superior on a scenic drive that will easily last a few hours. But the sights will be worth it as you pass lakes, rivers and wildlife amongst the changing fall landscape of the Superior National Forest. Skibo Vista, in the town of Hoyt Lakes, has an excellent vantage point of 20 miles of the Laurentian Divide. The drive ends at the North Shore town of Silver Bay which has an extraordinary view of Lake Superior. The popular fall color destinations of Split Rock Lighthouse and Gooseberry Falls are only a few miles south of Silver Bay.
Laurentian Divide Tour
Between Virginia, Tower and Aurora
Northeastern Minnesota
www.ironrange.org
Take the 70-mile loop through Virginia, Tower and Aurora to complete a vivid seasonal color experience in the Iron Range. This tour takes you over the Laurentian Divide twice and past great American historic sites. Stop by the Virginia Heritage Museum or the Tower Train Museum to learn about the area's mining history. For great lookout points, don't miss Mineview in the Sky and the Pike River Dam.
Related: Best Spots For Picnics In Minnesota
Cortney Mohnk is a freelance writer covering all things Minnesota. She is also a public relations and event planning professional. Her most important job is mother to her young daughter, who is her partner-in-crime when checking out the family entertainment scene in the Twin Cities. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.
