Northeast Minnesota

Discover the wild beauty of Northeast Minnesota, where panoramic lake views, scenic rivers, tumbling waterfalls and dramatic woods are a sight to behold year-round. The magnificent Lake Superior, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and the freshwater-based Voyageurs National Park are highlights in this region where a wide range of activities including hiking, boating and canoeing, attract nature enthusiasts year-round.

Experience the rich cultural tapestry of northeast Minnesota in Duluth, which brings big-city fun with a seaport vibe. The region also holds historical significance, with roots in the mining and logging industries that shaped its development. Smaller towns in the area are worthy of exploration, offering heritage museums, art galleries, and delicious food and craft beer.

Northeast Minnesota boasts a four-season climate, making it a destination for both summer and winter sports, such as skiing and snowmobiling. Its mix of natural wonders, cultural offerings, and outdoor activities make it a unique and appealing region for all visitors.

Duluth/Lake Superior

The birthplace of Bob Dylan and a shipping hub where repurposed industrial buildings now house vibrant food and drink spots, Duluth buzzes with year-round excitement on the shore of Lake Superior. Duluth offers a wide variety of activities for all visitors, blending outdoor adventure with cultural and historical experiences. Canal Park, a bustling waterfront district, is a must-visit, featuring the iconic Aerial Lift Bridge, restaurants, and local shops. Visitors can also explore the Great Lakes Aquarium, showcasing the region’s aquatic ecosystems, or take a scenic cruise on Lake Superior.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Duluth provides numerous recreational opportunities. The Lakewalk, a scenic trail along the shoreline, is ideal for walking or biking. Nearby, the North Shore Scenic Drive offers breathtaking views of Lake Superior and access to state parks like Gooseberry Falls and Split Rock Lighthouse.

Duluth’s vibrant arts and cultural scene includes the Tweed Museum of Art and Glensheen Mansion, a historic estate offering guided tours. In winter, Spirit Mountain attracts skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, while the summer months provide access to kayaking and hiking.

Superior National Forest/Boundary Waters Canoe Wilderness

Superior National Forest covers more than three million acres and is celebrated for its unspoiled wilderness, diverse ecosystems, and wide range of recreational activities. The forest’s extensive network of lakes, rivers, and woodlands serves as a haven for wildlife, including moose, wolves, and bald eagles.

Within this remarkable region lies the renowned Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, one of the most remote and scenic destinations in the United States. Primarily accessible by canoe, the wilderness spans 150 miles along the U.S.-Canada border, encompassing approximately one million acres with over 1,100 lakes and 1,500 miles of canoe routes. Drawing more than 150,000 visitors annually, the BWCAW (for short) offers a truly immersive wilderness experience. As Minnesota’s first designated Dark Sky Sanctuary, it is also an ideal location for viewing the northern lights. To truly understand this incredible destination, you have to come to experience it for yourself.

Ely

Ely, Minnesota, is a charming town in the northeastern part of the state, often regarded as the gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and Superior National Forest. It attracts adventurers and nature enthusiasts seeking opportunities for canoeing, hiking, and wildlife observation amid the surrounding lakes and forests.

The town boasts a rich heritage linked to the mining and logging industries, which is highlighted at local landmarks such as the Ely-Winton Historical Society and the International Wolf Center, both of which offer educational exhibits on wolves and their natural habitats. Additionally, Ely is renowned for its vibrant arts community, featuring local galleries, shops, and festivals that celebrate regional crafts and culture.

Voyageurs National Park

The term “Voyageur,” meaning traveller in French, reflects the spirit of adventure that Voyageurs National Park embodies. Its breathtaking landscape, where water covers over one-third of the park’s 218,000 acres, is accessible primarily by boat for much of the year, or by snowmobile in winter. Visitors can explore the park’s interior through various watercraft options, navigating four large lakes, the Ash River, 26 smaller interior lakes, secluded bays, hundreds of islands, and over 650 miles of picturesque shoreline. This unique water-based park offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.

Like the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Voyageurs National Park is a designated Dark Sky Park, making it an exceptional location for stargazing. Visitors can enjoy clear views of countless stars, meteor showers, and the vibrant colours of the aurora borealis.

International Falls

International Falls located on the U.S.-Canada border, is a key gateway to outdoor recreation and natural beauty. Known as the “Icebox of the Nation” for its notably cold winters, the city also serves as a primary access point to Voyageurs National Park.

Visitors to International Falls can also enjoy the Smokey Bear Park, a family-friendly destination featuring a giant Smokey Bear statue, playgrounds, and picnic areas.

For those interested in history, the Koochiching County Historical Museum offers insights into the region’s cultural and industrial heritage. International Falls also hosts various local events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating the unique character of this northern Minnesota community.

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Superior Deluxe	Among the finest the world has to offer, hotels in this category are exclusive, lavish and indulgent. Needless to say, you will enjoy the highest service levels, superb accommodation and outstanding facilities and public areas.
Deluxe	This will be an outstanding hotel, offering many of the features of Superior Deluxe, though on a scale which will be a little less grand.
Moderate Deluxe	This will be a Deluxe standard property, although some of the accommodation and public areas may offer a less pronounced degree of luxury. In other instances, the hotel may be a famous name with a well-established reputation.
Superior First Class	More often than not, this will be a superior modern hotel or an older property which is exceptionally well maintained. All offer very comfortable and well-furnished accommodation and public areas.
First Class	A dependable and comfortable hotel with standardised rooms. These are the ideal choice for travellers who don not require deluxe facilities or special services.
Moderate First Class	Essentially a First Class hotel with comfortable but sometimes simple accommodations. Public areas may be limited but generally provides all the essentials a guest requires.
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Northeast Minnesota

Duluth/Lake Superior

Superior National Forest/Boundary Waters Canoe Wilderness

Ely

Voyageurs National Park

International Falls

Hotels In Northeast Minnesota

Grand Ely Lodge Resort, Ely

Radisson Hotel Harborview, Duluth

AmericInn by Wyndham International Falls

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Minnesota Wildlife by Motorhome

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Northeast Minnesota

Duluth/Lake Superior

Superior National Forest/Boundary Waters Canoe Wilderness

Ely

Voyageurs National Park

International Falls

Hotels In Northeast Minnesota

Grand Ely Lodge Resort, Ely

Radisson Hotel Harborview, Duluth

AmericInn by Wyndham International Falls

Suggested Itineraries

Minnesota Wildlife by Motorhome

Minnesota Explorer

Minnesota Destinations

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