For as long as I can remember, I’ve always been planning trips, my passport becoming my most valuable possession. My life was about heading elsewhere, exploring the big, wide world. Cue COVID-19 and a time during which I was unable to leave my house, let alone the state or country. Having moved back in with my parents in Wayzata, we spent the first few weeks hunkered down, venturing out for nothing more than a quick stroll or grocery shop.
As restrictions loosened, I began venturing farther afield, to places within Minnesota I’d never previously visited or, in some cases, known existed, despite growing up in the Twin Cities. I cycled various trails. I kayaked the Mississippi and the St. Croix Rivers. I canoed the Boundary Waters and wandered the North Shore (having been to Antarctica, but never Lake Superior). I frequented farmers markets, ice cream shops, and apple orchards. I fly fished. I hiked.
What started as a respite became an unexpected dedication to—and newfound passion for—my home state. Every pursuit gifted me insight into yet another aspect of what makes Minnesota truly magic: its access to the outdoors; its delicious food and diversity of activities; the sense I’ve done so much while more remains to be uncovered. The explorations helped me rediscover Minnesota’s essence.
For those popping in for a long family weekend or who have lived here for decades—for those eager to experience for the first time or to finally rediscover the Land of 10,000 lakes—here’s what you can’t afford to miss:
A Visit the North Shore
North of Duluth, along the shores of Lake Superior, you will find multiple state parks worth your time and explorations. Tettegouche State Park has some more rigorous hikes, leading to a series of stunning waterfalls. Gooseberry Falls State Park offers a few paved paths, as well as trails, that take you above and below the water source after which it is named. Split Rock Lighthouse State Park affords visitors unforgettable views of a lighthouse atop a cliff and a spot from which to swim, should the lake’s chilly waters not dissuade you. You might even consider a sunset stop at the Palisade Head to appreciate the evening light as it hits the shoreline.
To Do in Summer 2022: Split Rock Lighthouse State Park opened a new campsite, called the Shipwreck Creek Campground, on June 1. It is the first in the park to offer vehicle accessibility, plus electricity, making it easier for you and your family to enjoy a night under the stars. It is open through late October.
Also, pick blueberries. Mid-July to early August is considered peak gathering season, during which you can wander any public land on the lookout for the ripened berries. Over 90% of Cook County is considered public, meaning you have plenty of terrain to navigate. Weather permitting, you can even enter the Gunflint Trail’s annual Biggest Blueberry Contest.
To read more and discover my nine additional must-do activities, check out the entire piece at Minnesota Monthly.
