See The North Shore of Lake Superior

Are you looking for the perfect weekend getaway to Lake Superior? One that balances your desire to see the natural and stunning beauty of Lake Superior’s North Shore while preserving the environment? Here’s your fast track guide to the area, sure to leave you in awe of Mother Nature and proud of yourself for making the right choice.

Image courtesy of Michael Hicks from Flickr

Paddle Past Some of the Most Amazing Scenery in the USA

Between the Sawtooth mountains and the lapping coastline of the North Shore, you’re going to find incredible views that beg for a an up-close-and-personal look. Rent a canoe and soak in the silence, stillness, and majesty of what is around you: only nature. The Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA) is a must-see destination and was even highlighted by National Geographic as one of “50 Destinations of a Lifetime.” The best part about canoeing is that you’re subtle and slow enough that you won’t disturb the wildlife near you, and you’ll get a chance to see some of the many animals in the BWCA such as: moose, grouse, bear, white-tailed deer, and, of course, fish of all shapes and sizes. As the BWCA is a controlled and protected area, you’ll need a permit in order to go canoeing, but it can be obtained at many locations found here.

Grab a Simple Meal at Coho Café

This local, family-owned eatery serves up delicious and fresh pastries for breakfast along with strong, piping hot coffee served with a smile (which is difficult for most to manage pre-coffee) and slices into fresh, thick bread for the specialty sandwiches they offer for lunch.
Though the ambiance is nice — and the Wi-Fi is free — it’s not a bad idea to take your sandwiches to go and enjoy them as a picnic near the lake. Be sure to recycle and properly dispose of any garbage at the end, though: Pack it in — pack it out! Just remember, the cafe closes at 2 p.m. on weekdays, so plan ahead for any late lunches.

Image courtesy of Michael Hicks from Flickr

Choose the Right Hotel

While there’s no shortage of options in the 1,300-mile ring road that surrounds Lake Superior, the Bluefin Bay stands out among the crowd. Its motto “Stay where the indoors are as great as the outdoors” is a big claim, and one it backs up with a plethora of features. Some rooms are a mere 12 feet from the edge of the water and boast floor-to-ceiling windows.

There is an outdoor whirlpool tub, which is open year-round and is a perfect way to unwind — after all, that’s what vacation is about, right? If you feel up to it, there are several barbecue grills available for your use; lakeside picnics and outdoor grilling are just the ticket for a relaxing afternoon meal.

Don’t worry about driving; the complimentary shuttle offers transportation options all around to nearby trailheads, bike routes, and even snowshoeing options.

With all these possibilities for your trip to Tofte, the only question you need to answer is “when?”

Please note : This is part of a series for #HipmunkCityLove. Hipmunk.com is low-cost and budget travel service that I use while planning budget travel, and am thrilled to write for. I know you will find the articles as well as their services useful.

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