Spend a Spring Weekend on Minnesota’s North Shore (3 Day Waterfall Edition w/ full iTinary)

Spring is here (finally). The waterfalls are flowing and if you’re looking to see them this year, now through early summer is going to be your best chance. I’m taking two trips up this year. I did a longer four day trip and will be doing a 12 hour day trip on a weekend.

If you're looking for a longer trip to explore the North Shore of Minnesota, a three-day itinerary will give you ample time to enjoy the many attractions and scenic beauty of the area. Here's how to make the most of your time in Duluth, Two Harbors, Lutsen, and Grand Marais while also exploring the stunning state parks and waterfalls in the region.

Day 1: Duluth and Two Harbors

Start your day in Duluth with breakfast at the Amazing Grace Bakery and Cafe. This cozy spot offers a variety of breakfast dishes and freshly baked pastries.

After breakfast, head to Lester Park to explore the waterfalls. The park has several trails that lead to waterfalls, including the Lester River Trail, which takes you to the stunning Lester Falls. Another option is to visit the nearby Congdon Park, which has several trails and waterfalls including the majestic Tischer Creek Falls.

For lunch, head to the Rustic Inn Cafe or Betty’s Pies in Two Harbors. These iconic restaurant offers classic American fare and is known for its famous pies. Stay tuned, I’ll be doing a blind taste test of the two pies soon to officially settle the debate once and forall.

After lunch, drive up to Gooseberry Falls State Park, which is located just 13 miles north of Two Harbors. The park has several trails that lead to waterfalls, including the popular Gooseberry Falls Trail, which takes you past three stunning waterfalls - Lower, Middle, and Upper Falls. If you’re planning on going in the spring there is still some snow pack and ice so I would recommend bringing yak-tracks or microspikes to keep you safe.

For dinner, head to Castle Danger Brewery in Two Harbors. This family-friendly brewery offers a variety of craft beers and order a pizza.

Day 2: Lutsen and Tettegouche State Park

Start your day with breakfast at Coho Cafe in Tofte. This cozy spot offers a variety of breakfast dishes, including pancakes, eggs benedict, and breakfast burritos.

After breakfast, head to Tettegouche State Park, which is located just 20 miles northeast of Lutsen. The park has several waterfalls that can be accessed via hiking trails, including the High Falls of the Baptism River, which is the highest waterfall in the park. The park also features a scenic overlook at Shovel Point, offering stunning views of Lake Superior.

For lunch, head to the Cove Point Lodge in Beaver Bay. This restaurant is known for its North Shore-inspired cuisine and stunning views of Lake Superior.

After lunch, head back to Lutsen and spend the afternoon at the Lutsen Mountains. In the spring, the mountain offers a variety of activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and the Alpine Slide.

For dinner, head to the Bluefin Grille in Tofte. This upscale restaurant offers a variety of dishes, including seafood, steak, and vegetarian options.

Day 3: Grand Marais and Grand Portage State Park

Start your day with breakfast at World’s Best Doughnuts and coffee from Java Moose in Grand Marais. Walk out to the light house to have your meal with a view.

After breakfast, drive up to Grand Portage State Park, which is located about an hour northeast of Grand Marais. The park is known for its High Falls, which is the highest waterfall in Minnesota and can be viewed from a scenic overlook platform. The park also features a visitor center with exhibits about the Ojibwe people and their history in the area.

For lunch, head to the Angry Trout Cafe in Grand Marais. This waterfront restaurant offers delicious seafood dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.

After lunch, explore the charming town of Grand Marais. Stroll along the harbor and browse the shops and galleries that line the main street.

For dinner, head to the Crooked Spoon Cafe in Grand Marais. This popular restaurant offers a variety of dishes, including seafood, burgers, and vegetarian options.

Overall, spending a springtime weekend on the North Shore of Minnesota offers plenty of opportunities to explore charming towns, enjoy the great outdoors, and witness the stunning waterfalls that the region is known for. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the beauty of the waterfalls in full bloom.

Where to stay:

Coming from Duluth and going all the way up to Grand Marais (and beyond if you’re looking to hit Grand Portage it can be temping to want ot stay at 2+ places, but personally I’d rather do a little more driving and just stay at one place the whole trip. Sawtooth Mountain Hideaway (or their new build coming fall 2023) is a great option.

Right off Highway 61 this custom built log cabin is perfect for group trips, multigenerational family vacations or even just a cozy honeymoon.

While just off the highway, this cabin is tucked in the trees but also sits high enough to get amazing views of Lake Superior from the loft, living room, deck and sunroom (my personal favorite room in the house.)

The details in this home are above and beyond and your kids will love the bunk room in the basement.

This is truly a stay you need to experience in every season. I can’t even imagin how pretty fall is here.

Full blog post is coming soon on Sawtooth Mountain Hideaway, but if you want to book now here’s all the info.

This stay was hosted by Sawtooth Mountain Hideaway, but all opinions are my own. (Seriosuly this goes down as one of my top 5 favorite stays, I didn’t want to leave)

Want to see a full tour, where I love to stop on MN’s North Shore and more? Be sure to follow me on Instagram @taylorjohildreth.