North Shore of Lake Superior – Spring 2024

So you’ve heard of the North Shore of Lake Superior uh? The wind-swept lands of wolves, rocks, trees, waterfalls, and raging storms. It’s hard to beat.

The North Shore is still one of those precious gems that haven’t quite been overrun by the teaming hordes of developers who run their dozers everywhere putting in resorts and the like. It’s probably coming and getting closer, but it hasn’t happened yet. The best part about visiting the North Shore of Lake Superior early in the spring, say March, is that the vacations haven’t descended with their BMWs and Escalades yet, it’s very quiet and relaxed.

From Two Harbors to Grand Marais the restaurants are not that busy, and the many waterfalls and State Parks aren’t teaming with screaming children and city folk.

The weather can be quite nice or quite not nice in the Spring along the North Shore, it can go from 50’s and calm to 17 degrees with gale-force winds.

Some places you have to stop if you are on the North Shore in the Spring.

    • Cascade River State Park
    • Nice easy walking with tons of waterfalls, you will have the place to yourself.
    • Baptism River and campground along with Tettegouche State Park
      • year-round heated showers and restrooms, a short walk to Baptism River, and more waterfalls.
    • The Angry Trout is the best place to eat in Grand Marais
    • Get pie from Betties or Rustic Inn and Cafe
    • Split Rock Lighthouse and hiking at Split Rock State Park.
      • beautiful hikes along the lake with many rock beaches to explore
    • Castle Danger brewery

Honestly, the best part about a weekend camping or visiting the North Shore in the early Spring is simply not dealing with the crowds. It’s mostly just locals out and about, with a few hardy camping souls mixed in. You will have all the waterfalls, beaches, and trails to yourself for the most part … with just a few stragglers here and there.

The weather can border on bad, but it’s manageable if you are prepared.

The best way to deal with this is to plan a trip that is a mix of exploring the woods, waterfalls, and lakes, along with plenty of stops at restaurants, towns, etc. This gives you a break from the wind and the waves you might need.

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