Summer’s ended, and now the slow changing of the seasons is underway in northeastern Minnesota. With the arrival of fall comes a riot of yellows, oranges, and reds as trees begin to change their colors in preparation for winter.
But don’t worry, you have a few weeks yet to appreciate the colors of autumn, so hop in the car and get ready for a drive.
Carlton
Jay Cooke State Park near Carlton is open daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., and features a hiking, camping, a swinging bridge over the St. Louis River, a historic cemetery, and the views of the Thomson Dam gorge.
It also is home to more than 170 species of birds, and plenty of other wildlife, some of which may be visible from the car.
If you’re short on time, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources recommends parking at the historic River Inn and heading straight to the bridge, which is accessible. From there, visit Oldenburg Point to see the Civilian Conservation Corps facilities and stop to take in the view over the St. Louis River valley. On your way back, visit the Thomson Pioneer Cemetery, which dates back to the late 1800s.
Lutsen
Head out to Lutsen, and you can take a ride on the Summit Express Gondola in the Sawtooth Mountains to see the breathtaking fall colors.
The enclosed gondola cars take visitors to and from the top of Moose Mountain, 1,000 feet above Lake Superior. And if you’re lucky, you might glimpse eagles, pine martens, bears, wolves, or perhaps even a moose along the way. Tickets start at $35 per adult and $20 for children ages 6-12. Each gondola can accommodate a maximum of eight guests.
Two people ride the gondola through the fall colored trees in Lutsen on Monday, October 10, 2022.
At the top of the mountain, take in the sights from the observation deck, stop at the Summit Chalet for lunch or a snack, or take a hike down one of the many trails.
The gondola rides are available daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Oct. 19, 2025, and limited to two Saturdays — Oct. 25 and Nov. 1 — in late fall. Summit Chalet closes a half-hour prior to the gondola, so don’t be caught going hungry.
Duluth
Hiking enthusiasts need not stray too far from Duluth to catch a fabulous view from on high — Ely’s Peak offers both a challenging trail and a far-reaching view on a clear day.
From the Superior Hiking Trail trailhead, hikers are encouraged to follow the blue markings up to the peak. For a more detailed account that will clear up the various ways you can be led astray by other signs, former News Tribune reporter Adelle Whitefoot documented her August 21 hike.
For a closer view of the city itself during the fall, check out Enger Tower in Enger Park. The park overlooks the Blatnik Bridge and Garfield Avenue, and also provides a view of the Aerial Lift Bridge.
0 Comments