While the large expanse of water itself may be boastful (the lake is the largest in the world by surface area and the third-largest by volume), the lake and its shores are incredibly beautiful. Many places along the Minnesota North Shore provide stunning glimpses of the lake—here are a few:
Canal Park – Duluth, Minnesota
Canal Park has been converted into the recreational district of Duluth but still portrays the industrial aspects of Lake Superior. The park contains many old warehouses that are now restaurants, museums, shopping areas and other attractions. Walking on the lighthouse pier, one will notice the incredible Aerial Lift Bridge, which stretches across the canal. People can also take walks on the Lakewalk, which provides access to sandy beaches.
Glensheen Mansion – Duluth, Minnesota
This estate, which was once the home of a prosperous businessman named Chester Adgate Congdon, spans over twelve acres of lakeside land. The mansion includes thirty-nine interesting rooms, including a bathroom with a twelve-head shower, and is authentic in the sense that everything belonging to the family has remained in the mansion for almost a century. The estate was created in a way that preserved the natural aesthetic of the lakeshore. Visitors, who can tour the estate year-round, can look upon the lake from the pier or amble along the stony waterfront.
Split Rock Lighthouse – Beaver Bay, Minnesota
Majestically perched on a rocky cliff, the lighthouse overlooks Lake Superior at 602 feet above sea level. The beacon guided ships sailing through from 1905 until 1967, when it was decommissioned by the U.S. Coast Guard. Nevertheless, it remains a spectacular sight to see. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking view from above or hike down to the rocky shore. For those looking for an adventure, the state park provides many miles of scenic trails, where one will be able to appreciate the beautiful forests and red cliffs juxtaposed against the blue of the lake.
(To virtually experience the beauty of the water, visit http://artbyanh.weebly.com/minnesota-2014.html. Even so, these pictures don’t do the place justice.)
