Scenic Fall Drives on Minnesota’s North Shore

As we officially say goodbye to summer and welcome fall, it’s time to start looking towards another spectacular fall in Duluth, Minnesota.  The excitement is palpable, and the dramatic colors of fall have already begun their beautiful annual display. Fall foliage is already showing hints of its colorful hues in the surrounding hillsides.  As the air begins to cool, we’ll soon be surrounded by fall’s hallmark hues of crimson, orange, yellow, and green. Situated on the north shores of Lake Superior, there is no better place to see the vibrant colors of sugar maple, aspen, paper birch, ash, and silver maple than along the scenic roadways of Duluth.  If you have yet to see the spectacular fall color change here, don’t miss your chance this year.  Book your room at our Duluth Bed and Breakfast today, and come enjoy beautifully scenic fall drives along Minnesota’s North Shore.

The Best Scenic Fall Drives Near Duluth

It’s well established that leaves change color each fall due to chemical changes in the leaves, triggered by the changing rhythm of the day and night and the cooler temperatures that occur during the transition from summer to fall.  Minnesota’s fall color typically peaks towards the end of September or early October, but it can be enjoyed through the end of October. The first to turn will be the inland trees, especially the maples along the ridge lines. Later, the aspens and birch will follow with bright pockets of gold.

If you’re looking for a beautiful drive, you can’t go wrong heading north on Highway 61, along the shores of Lake Superior. The North Shore Scenic Drive begins at Canal Park in Duluth, and continues on through the unspoiled wilderness of Minnesota, offering some of the finest views around as you meander up the shores of Lake Superior. Visitors are currently enjoying long stretches of golden yellow aspens and birches, with a few brighter oranges and reds beginning to show, especially higher up on the ridge lines.  Other scenic drives worth considering are the Superior National Forest Scenic Byway, the remote Gunflint Trail Scenic Byway, and the Skyline Parkway, which has the added convenience of being right in the heart of Duluth.

Other Ways to Enjoy Fall in Duluth

If you’d rather not do all the driving, but instead sit back and take in the vibrant hues of fall, then you may want to consider a ride with the North Shore Scenic Railroad.  This is by far one of the most scenic rides up the North Shore, and a spectacular way to take in colorful displays of fall foliage.  Alternatively, you can enjoy a scenic chair lift ride up to Spirit Mountain.  From there, you can get up close and personal with mother nature, and explore the miles of scenic hiking and biking trails at your disposal.  The Summit Express Gondola at Lutsen Mountain is also a lovely way to spend an afternoon.

You really can’t go wrong when you visit Duluth during the fall.  In fact, you don’t even have to leave the beautiful grounds of our Duluth Bed and Breakfast to enjoy the vibrant colors of fall. Our Inn sits on 2 private and beautiful acres, where you’ll find award winning gardens, a spacious veranda, a gazebo, and our very own waterfall.  There’s no better choice for lodging in Duluth. Book your stay at our award-winning Bed and Breakfast today.