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Hiking Minnesota: Fall Colors on the Superior Hiking Trail

We went hunting for autumn leaves along the Superior Hiking Trail and other backcountry roads while camping on the North Shore of Lake Superior. We caught some sunshine and vibrant colors among the fall foliage near Caribou Lake. This time around we only had time to enjoy tidbits of the trail before starting on our way back home, but perhaps one day we will be back to enjoy more!

Things to Know: Superior Hiking Trail

*300+ mile footpath following the rocky ridgeline above Lake Superior from the Minnesota/Wisconsin border to the Canadian border.

*Over 50 trailheads along the North Shore, including in state parks, along Hwy 61, and in the city of Duluth.

*94 shared backcountry campsites: no reservations, permits or fees required. First come, first serve.

*No permits or fees required to hike on the trail or to use the shared backcountry campsites.

*Distance: 310 miles.

*Difficulty: moderately strenuous.

*Highest point of trail: 1,829 ft.

*Time: 2-4 weeks to complete thru-hike.

Tips:

*Trail is optimal for day hikes, backpacking, thru-hikes, and trail runs.  

*Best time to hike is late summer or fall, but trail is used year round.  

*Foot traffic only. No motorized vehicles, mountain bikes, horses, or cross-country skiing allowed. Snow shoe travel is possible and encouraged.

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