Exploring the Majestic Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan

 

Michigan's Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore stands as a testament to the awe-inspiring beauty that nature has to offer. From the captivating Miners Beach to the iconic Miners Castle and the breathtaking Miners Fall, this national treasure beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts to immerse themselves in its stunning landscapes.

Miners Beach: A Tranquil Escape:

Nestled along the picturesque shores of Lake Superior, Miners Beach offers a tranquil escape from the outside world. As the waves gently lap against the sandy shoreline, visitors are treated to breathtaking vistas of towering sandstone cliffs, painted in hues of orange, red, and blue. The beach's peaceful ambiance and stunning views make it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or simply to bask in the beauty of nature's masterpiece.

Miners Castle: Nature's Sculptural Masterpiece:

One cannot mention Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore without highlighting the iconic Miners Castle. This majestic rock formation, shaped by centuries of wind and water, stands proudly as a testament to nature's sculptural prowess. Perched atop the cliff's edge, visitors are rewarded with panoramic views of Lake Superior and the surrounding forests. As the sun sets, the castle's sandstone walls take on a warm glow, creating a truly magical sight.

Miners Fall: Nature's Cascading Beauty:

Tucked away amidst the lush greenery of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Miners Fall showcases nature's captivating beauty in the form of a cascading waterfall. The gentle rush of water tumbling over the rocks creates a soothing symphony, while the lush foliage adds a touch of serenity to the scene. Hiking trails meander through the surrounding forest, allowing visitors to appreciate the falls from various vantage points and truly immerse themselves in the natural splendor.

A Kaleidoscope of Natural Wonders:

Beyond Miners Beach, Miners Castle, and Miners Fall, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore boasts a kaleidoscope of natural wonders waiting to be explored. Hike along the Lakeshore Trail to witness breathtaking cliff formations, explore the intricate network of caves, and marvel at the ethereal beauty of Chapel Rock and Chapel Beach. Kayaking along the shore unveils hidden coves, towering arches, and the mesmerizing hues of Chapel Cove and Mosquito Beach. Each turn reveals a new chapter in this ever-evolving landscape.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan is a testament to the raw beauty and captivating power of nature. From the serene shores of Miners Beach to the majestic presence of Miners Castle and the cascading beauty of Miners Fall, this national treasure offers a glimpse into a world where beauty knows no bounds. With its breathtaking cliffs, tranquil beaches, and enchanting waterfalls, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore beckons adventurers to embark on a journey of discovery and immerse themselves in the wonders of nature's artistry.

Enjoy Your Visit!

       Sherri

The Mysterious Black Sand Beach in Minnesota: Exploring the Unique Natural Wonder

When you think of a beach, you probably imagine white sands and turquoise waters. But did you know that Minnesota has a beach with black sand? Located on the shores of Lake Superior, the Black Sand Beach is a unique natural wonder that draws visitors from all over the country. In this blog post, we will explore what makes this beach so special and why it is worth a visit.

The Black Sand Beach is in Silver Bay, Minnesota, on the shores of Lake Superior. The beach is not entirely made up of black sand, but rather a mix of black and white sands. The black sand comes from the nearby Palisade Head, a basalt rock formation that has eroded over time.

The beach is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and there are many activities to enjoy. Visitors can swim in the cool waters of Lake Superior, go fishing or kayaking, or simply relax on the beach and enjoy the stunning views.

Why Visit the Black Sand Beach?

 

The Black Sand Beach is a unique natural wonder that offers visitors a chance to experience something truly special. The contrast between the black and white sands is striking and makes for some stunning photo opportunities. The beach is also surrounded by beautiful scenery, including forests, cliffs, and the expansive waters of Lake Superior.

 

In addition to its beauty, the beach is also a great place to learn about geology and natural history. The basalt rocks that make up the black sand were formed over millions of years, and the beach is a living example of the powerful forces of nature.

Tips for Visiting

 

Wear sturdy shoes, as the beach is rocky and uneven.

Bring sunscreen and insect repellent, as the beach is exposed to the sun and bugs.

Be careful when swimming, as the waters of Lake Superior can be cold and rough.

Respect the natural environment and leave no trace behind.

The Black Sand Beach in Minnesota is a unique and stunning destination that offers visitors a chance to experience the power and beauty of nature. Whether you are a geology buff or simply looking for a beautiful and unusual beach to visit, the Black Sand Beach is worth checking out. So, grab your camera and head on over to this amazing natural wonder!

 

Address:

Water Plant Rd, Silver Bay, MN 55614

*Watch for a sign on the main road.

Enjoy Your Visit!

       Sherri

Lighthouse Point (Two Harbors, Minnesota) Lake Superior

Located in the beautiful little town of Two Harbors, Lighthouse Point is a magical place.

 Winding trails through cedar, spruces, grasses, and wild flowers will lead you along the rocky shore of Lake Superior.

The high light of the area is a red brick lighthouse on the top of a hill over looking the harbor.  The Two Harbors Lighthouse is the oldest continuously operating lighthouse on Minnesota's North Shore. It is a private aid to navigation and is no longer maintained by the Coast Guard.

A head keeper's residence is attached to the lighthouse. The walls of the tower are three bricks thick and the walls where the tower and house meet are five bricks thick. The structure was built with the safety of the keeper's family in mind.

Tours of the lighthouse are available through the gift shop.

Lighthouse Tours: Information

Stay as a guest  in one of the four rooms at the Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast.

Lodging: Information

Address:

#1 Lighthouse Point

Two Harbors, MN 55616

Phone:

(218) 834-4898 

Happy Travels! 

Exploring the Charming Coastal Town of Grand Marais, Minnesota

Located on the shores of Lake Superior in northeastern Minnesota, Grand Marais is a picturesque town that has become a beloved destination for artists, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a scenic retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Grand Marais is also home to a thriving arts community, with numerous galleries and studios showcasing the work of local artists and artisans. Visitors can explore the town's vibrant arts scene by visiting the Grand Marais Art Colony, which offers classes, workshops, and exhibitions, as well as the North House Folk School, which teaches traditional crafts such as woodworking, blacksmithing, and weaving.

Artist's Point is a narrow strip of land that extends out into Lake Superior and is surrounded by crystal clear water on all sides. The point is named for the many artists who have been inspired by its natural beauty, including the famous American painter and illustrator, Rockwell Kent, who lived in Grand Marais in the early 1900s.

One of the best ways to experience Artist's Point is by taking a leisurely stroll along the Grand Marais Harbor Trail, which winds its way through the town and along the shoreline, offering stunning views of the lake and the surrounding wilderness. Along the way, visitors can stop at numerous overlooks and picnic areas, and take in the beauty of the town's historic harbor, which is home to a fleet of fishing boats and pleasure craft.

In addition to its natural beauty, Grand Marais is also home to a thriving arts community, with numerous galleries and studios showcasing the work of local artists and artisans. Visitors can explore the town's vibrant arts scene by visiting the Grand Marais Art Colony, which offers classes, workshops, and exhibitions, as well as the North House Folk School, which teaches traditional crafts such as woodworking, blacksmithing, and weaving.

Finally, Grand Marais is a great destination for anyone looking to experience the great outdoors. The town is surrounded by the Superior National Forest, which offers miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for fishing, camping, and canoeing. Visitors can also explore the nearby Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, a vast wilderness area that offers some of the best canoeing and camping experiences in the country.

Enjoy Your Visit!

       Sherri

Exploring the Beauty and History of Split Rock Lighthouse State Park in Minnesota

Located about 20 miles northeast of Two Harbors on Highway 61, this park gets it's name from the  beautiful historic lighthouse perched atop a rock cliff on the north shore of Lake Superior.

The Split Rock lighthouse is one of the most visited lighthouses in the nation and serves as backdrop for many popular photos. The lighthouse was completed in 1910 and was in service until 1969. Tours of the lighthouse and surrounding buildings are available daily throughout the summer season. Find more info here.

Split Rock Lighthouse State Park has around 4 miles of rocky shoreline and beaches. 

A beautiful black sand beach (Pebble Beach) is located just a short walk from the parking area. Several picnic areas are nestled in the trees along the beach.

A little further down the main trail will lead you to a beach area that is made of of beautiful colored  stones. This is a fun place to explore the coastline.

The vegetation in this area is mainly birch, spruce, fir, and ash trees.

The park contains 14.5 miles of trails for hiking, bicycling, and cross-country skiing.

Camping

Cart-in Sites

Twenty secluded sites approximately 2000 feet from the parking area.. Campers leave their vehicles in the lot and use two-wheeled carts provided by the park to carry their equipment  to their site. There are two wheelchair accessible sites in this area. Modern toilets and showers are available from early May until early October.

Backpack Sites

Four sites ranging from 1/2 to 2 miles from the campground parking lot. Two of the sites are accessible from Lake Superior for use by kayaks.

Reservations for campsites are required. Make them here.

Water recreation includes boating, sea kayaking, fishing, and scuba diving. Access to the Madeira wreck, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, is available through the park. 

Address: 

3755 Split Rock Lighthouse Road

Two Harbors, MN 55616

telephone: 

218-595-ROCK (7625)

email: 

SplitRockLthouse.StatePark@state.mn.us

Happy Travels!