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Where is Two Harbors located?
- Nestled along the beautiful North Shore of Lake Superior, Two Harbors, MN is a quaint, picturesque, lakeside town boasting a rich history.
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What historic sites can visitors explore in Two Harbors?
- Numerous historic sites can be found throughout the city, like the Split Rock Lighthouse – the most photographed lighthouse in the country.
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What natural attractions can be found in Two Harbors?
- A nature lovers’ paradise, the town is home to several rivers, ponds, streams, waterfalls, and lakes.
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1. Gooseberry Falls State Park
See rushing waterfalls and walk along wooded trails on an exciting summer trip.
Founded in 1937, Gooseberry Falls State Park is located on the North Shore of Lake Superior along the scenic Minnesota Highway 61. This 1,687 acre park encircles the mouth of the Gooseberry River and includes Lower, Middle, and Upper Gooseberry Falls. Gooseberry Falls also provides 18 miles of hiking trails and eight miles of mountain biking trails, both of which connect to the famous 310-mile long Superior Hiking Trail. During the winter months snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing are popular activities in the park. The park’s visitor center provides naturalist’s with interesting exhibits, interpretive programs, and a gift shop. There are also a few historical sites within the park including the original bridge.
Gooseberry Falls State Park , 3206 Highway 61 East, Two Harbors, MN, Phone: 218-595-7100
2. Split Rock Lighthouse & State Park
Admire dramatic views and explore lighthouse history on a scenic fall weekend.
The Split Rock Lighthouse & State Park, a 2,200 acre state park, is situated on Lake Superior’s North Shore. It’s most prominent fixture is the Split Rock Lighthouse, a historic site and one of the most photographed lighthouse’s in the nation. It also features, a trail center, a lakeshore picnic area, and a visitor center with a museum store showcasing maritime décor, Lighthouse souvenirs, north woods artwork, apparel, and locally crafted items from artisans. The park also provides visitors with 14 miles of hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing trails along the lakeshore and into the northern forest
Split Rock Lighthouse & State Park, 3755 Split Rock Lighthouse Road, Two Harbors, MN 55616, Phone: 218-226-6372
3. Superior Hiking Trail
Go hiking through forests and look at Lake Superior sights on a spring trip.
The Superior Hiking Trail also referred to as the SHT, is a 310-mile-long footpath that runs along the rocky ridgeline overlooking Lake Superior. There are over 50 access points from one end of the trail, near Jay Cooke State Park to the other end of the trail, the Canada-US border near Lake Superior. The trail travels through forests of pine, aspen, birch, cedar, and fir, passing by cascading waterfalls, babbling brooks, and rushing rivers. Hikers will be rewarded with awe-inspiring views of the Sawtooth Mountains and boreal forests. The SHT also provides 93 backcountry campsites dispersed every five-eight miles for long-distance trekkers.
Superior Hiking Trail , 731 7th Avenue, Two Harbors, MN, Phone: 218-834-2700
4. Two Harbors Lighthouse
Visit the historic light and enjoy lake views on an affordable outing.
First lit in 1892, the historic Two Harbors Lighthouse is the oldest operating lighthouse in Minnesota. Made entirely of red brick, it consists of six structures, a fog signal building, a skiff home, a garage, an oil house, the lighthouse tower with attached keeper’s home, and an assistant keeper’s home. Visitors can tour the beautifully restored Lighthouse Tower housing the rotating light and the Keeper’s Quarters which serves as a bed and breakfast and underwent an early 20th century restoration. The Assistant Keeper’s building is also available to the public. It has been restored to the 19th century era and acts as a museum displaying exhibits on the development of Agate Bay and Lake Superior shipwrecks. You can also stay at the Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast.
Two Harbors Lighthouse, 520 South Avenue, Two Harbors, MN, Phone: 218-834-4898
5. Iona’s Beach Scientific and Natural Area
Walk along pink stones and discover unusual geology on a peaceful spring visit.
Iona’s Beach Scientific and Natural Area is located in Two Harbors, situated between the Split Rock Lighthouse State Park and Gooseberry Falls State Park. A pristine and untouched pebbled beach, it features pink felsite and rhyolite pebbles that make tinkling musical sounds as the waves roll in and out, a characteristic unique to this area. It is one of only three Scientific and Natural areas in Minnesota. There are no maintained trails, but visitors are welcome to hike in the area to explore the wildflowers and native plants and well as enjoy some wildlife viewing. They are also permitted to swim at Iona Beach, however water shoes are recommended.
Iona’s Beach Scientific and Natural Area, Gitchi Gami State Trail, Two Harbors, MN, Phone: 218-753-2580
6. Hellacious Overlook
Look at rugged cliffs and admire endless water views on a quick stop.
Hellacious Overlook, more commonly referred to as Palisade Head, is a North Shore landmark located off Highway 61 close to Silver Bay. To access the 350-foot-tall cliff, visitors will need to watch for the narrow, lakeside road that appears at milepost 57. They will exit off onto this road and take the steep but safe drive slowly up to the top of this soaring coastal cliff in order to reach the lookout. There is a small parking area that requires some tight maneuvering at the top. Made from volcanic rock, this stunning cliff formation overlooks the gorgeous Lake Superior.
Hellacious Overlook, 3206 Highway 61, Two Harbors, MN, Phone: 218-595-7100
7. Depot Museum
Explore railroad history and see vintage stuff on a fun family trip.
The Depot Museum is housed in a historic brick building built in 1907 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Former headquarters of the Duluth and Iron Range Railroad, the building played a prominent role in the development of the iron ore industry throughout region and Minnesota itself. It served as a functional station until 1961 serving both passenger and freight needs. Today, the building serves as a museum showcasing the development of Lake County through various exhibits focusing on three main industries, timber, commercial fishing, and the railroad and iron mining. It is also the home of the administrative offices of the Lake County Historical Societies, the Judge William Scott Library, and archive storage.
Depot Museum, 520 South Avenue, Two Harbors, MN, Phone: 218-834-4898
8. 3M Dwan Museum
Discover innovation exhibits and look at early inventions on a cheap educational outing.
Housed in the original Dwan Law Office Building, the 3M Dwan Museum was created to honor the original roots of 3M, a multinational conglomerate that was once simply, the Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company. Located in Two Harbors, the museum features exhibits explaining how 3M defined the business model for research and development, as well as how they became a global force that employs nearly 90,000 people worldwide. Exhibits include the recreated office of Attorney John Dwan, a lab, and a complete history and timeline of the company that incorporates photos, documents, and artifacts. They also have several technology applications and hands-on interactive programs.
3M Dwan Museum, 203 Waterfront Dr, Two Harbors, MN 55616, Phone: 218-834-4898
9. Northwoods Pioneer Gallery & Gifts
Browse handcrafted art and shop local gifts on an easy weekend visit.
Opened in 1972, the Northwoods Pioneer Gallery & Gifts was started by a number of small local craft organizations. It was created as a means for elderly and low-income Northeastern Minnesotans to bring their crafts to market as well as to provide educational arts and crafts activities to locals and visitors alike. It has since opened up to all local artisans regardless of income or age. As a cooperative, the facility is run by its members, they tend to the shop and work as sales clerks. Often times, the members who are working provide demonstrations of their craft, sharing the techniques of their trade. This includes, wheat weaving, beading, wood working, beading, and painting.
Northwoods Pioneer Gallery & Gifts , 2821 Highway 61, Two Harbors, MN, Phone: 218-834-4175
10. The Purple Lotus
Shop spiritual goods and explore wellness stuff during a relaxing retirement stop.
The Purple Lotus offers different types of therapeutic massage and bodywork. The owner and certified massage therapist, Christina has created a tranquil space for her customers to relax in the heart of Two Harbors. An earthy oasis, The Purple Lotus features stunning hardwood floors, sea foam green walls, a comfortable seating area, and a private Zen room boasting a Japanese garden atmosphere. Customers can choose from a wide range of services including several different types of massage such as Pregnancy, Sports, Relaxation, Deep Tissue, Hot Stone, and Raindrop. The Purple Lotus also offers paraffin wax treatment for the hands and feet as well as aromatherapy and head and scalp massages.
The Purple Lotus, 620 1st Avenue, Two Harbors, MN, Phone: 218-260-1298
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Cool but scenic with waterfalls at peak flow.
Country Inn of Two Harbors – A comfortable and centrally located stay.
Visit Gooseberry Falls State Park – See stunning waterfalls and scenic hiking trails.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and great for lake activities.
Larsmont Cottages on Lake Superior – A luxurious lakeside resort with beautiful views.
Explore Split Rock Lighthouse – One of Minnesota’s most iconic landmarks.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and vibrant fall foliage.
Grand Superior Lodge – A cozy and rustic lodge perfect for fall getaways.
Drive the North Shore Scenic Byway – Experience breathtaking autumn colors.
Winter (December-February) – Snowy and perfect for winter sports.
Superior Shores Resort – A great stay for winter relaxation with a fireplace.
Try cross-country skiing at Gooseberry Falls – Enjoy groomed trails in a winter wonderland.
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