Minnesota's Superior Hiking Trail - Lodge Based

Our adventure begins in Duluth, where we meet the guides and group at the host hotel, then set off for the trailhead. A hike from Bean Lake to Bear Lake is the perfect introduction to the beauty of this enchanting locale, immediately immersing us in the lush landscape and stunning scenery that typifies the Superior Hiking Trail. With every room overlooking the vast Lake Superior, our lodging provides amazing views and some time to relax before dinner at a local restaurant.  Our first wonderful day complete, we settle in for a restful evening, lulled to sleep by the soothing sound of waves lapping the shore. Lunch and dinner included.

Hiking 7 miles, Elevation Gain/Loss +1,175'/-1,159

Van transfers: 2.5 hours

Begin the day with a hearty breakfast at local’s favorite Blue Water Café, then grab some (world famous?) donuts for the road before heading to the Kadunce River Trail. Our longest hike on this incredible journey, this trail offers a refreshing hike along the river and through the woods, with beautiful waterfalls and forested pathways. But that is not all this exceptional hike has to offer! We go from the towering trees to the wave crashing shoreline, and our adventure transforms as we arrive at the stunning Lake Walk. Here, the breathtaking contrast of lush greenery meeting crystal-clear waters creates a surreal experience, a perfect complement to the morning’s scenic wonders, and the perfect spot for our picnic lunch. We traverse back into the woods and finish along the Kadunce river and it’s many cascades. After the hiking, we return to our abodes and get ready to treat ourselves to a sumptuous dinner with scenic views of Lake Superior. All meals included.

Hiking 9.53 miles, Elevation Gain/Loss +972/-900

Van transfers: 30 min.

We kick off the day with breakfast at a local favorite café, then travel to the Pincushion Trail for a superior (pun intended) hike. Reaching the summit of Pincushion Mountain—our highest point on the trip at nearly 1,600 feet—feels like a true victory. As we stand at the top, panoramic views of the vast Lake Superior and the charming town of Grand Marais unfold before us, a well-earned reward for our journey. As we transfer to our next lodging set in the Lutsen hills, a trip to the North Shore Winery is on the menu to indulge in a tasting of locally made wines and cheeses. We finish the day with a sumptuous celebratory dinner, before retiring for the evening in our comfy new lodge. All meals included.

Hike 5.2 miles, Elevation Gain/Loss +845/-1,194

Van Transfers: 45 min

Today we experience Cascade River State Park. Hiking the Cascade River Loop is a dramatic and classic section of the SHT. Climbing boardwalks, skipping over roots, and dancing around rocks describes today’s classic trail as we navigate along the river, experiencing an amazing array of waterfalls and  dramatic river cascades. The almost eight miles seems to go by in a blink due to the fantastic visual feast. And speaking of dinner, we stay in theme tonight and enjoy a relaxed dinner at the Cascade Restaurant, known for it’s relaxed atmosphere and great food. Heading back to our lodge feels like going home as we settle in for another relaxing evening. All meals included.

Hiking 7.48 miles, Elevation Gain/Loss +/- 1,352'

Van Transfers: 1 hour

Did we save the best for last?  Today your guide will take you on one of their favorite hikes that perfectly epitomizes the reason that the Superior Trail has become the worldwide destination that it is. A sumptuous picnic style lunch awaits after on the shores of Lake Superior with epic views of the iconic Split Rock Lighthouse. You may recognize the lighthouse overlook at Little Two Harbors from the many stunning photographs of the area. After lunch, and a bit of exploration along the shore area, it is time to return to Duluth, marking the end of your adventure, but just the beginning of your love affair with the North Shore! Breakfast and lunch included.

Hike 5.7 miles, Elevation Gain/Loss +/- 802'

Van Transfers: 2.5 hours