Lake Superior Panoramic Road

Take a journey along the Lake Superior Panoramic Road and experience the breathtaking views of the largest of the Great Lakes. Starting from Duluth, Minnesota, USA, this 308km route takes you to Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada and offers a variety of attractions along the way. Begin your adventure in Tofte, a small town with plenty of outdoor activities such as canoeing, kayaking and fishing. Then, take a break in Grand Portage, the oldest trading post in Minnesota, and explore the Grand Portage National Monument. The best time to drive is during the spring and summer months, when the roads are in excellent condition and the scenery is at its best. Be sure to plan for a border crossing when you reach the Canada-US boundary. This road trip is suitable for every driver, and with a moderate budget you can make memories that will last a lifetime. Enjoy the amazing sights of Lake Superior and the surrounding area on the Lake Superior Panoramic Road.

Duluth, Minnesota is the perfect starting point for your road trip along the Lake Superior Panoramic Road. Located on the westernmost tip of Lake Superior, Duluth offers a wide variety of activities and attractions for visitors. From the breathtaking views of the harbor to the historic Aerial Lift Bridge, there is something for everyone in Duluth. For the outdoor enthusiast, Duluth is a paradise. Enjoy a stroll along the lakefront, hike along the Superior Hiking Trail, or take a scenic boat tour of the harbor. For the history buff, visit the Glensheen Mansion and learn about the legacy of the Congdon family. The Lake Superior Zoo is also a great place to explore. Car rentals are available at the Duluth International Airport (DLH), located just a few miles from downtown. From there, you can begin your journey along the Lake Superior Panoramic Road. The road takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the state, including the North Shore of Lake Superior, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, and many state parks. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or a relaxing getaway, Duluth is a great place to start your Lake Superior Panoramic Road trip. With its stunning views, vibrant culture, and abundance of activities, Duluth has something for everyone!

Welcome to the Duluth-Tofte road trip, one of the stages of an exciting tour! This stage is 83 miles long and the estimated driving time is less than two hours, so you will have plenty of time to explore the attractions along the way. Starting in Duluth, don't miss the Canal Park, a great place to enjoy a stroll by the lake with a view of the Aerial Lift Bridge. You can also visit the Great Lakes Aquarium, with its interactive exhibits and fascinating creatures. Continuing your road trip, you will find the Lutsen Mountains, perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities. You can also take a ride on the Eagle Mountain Gondola and admire the breathtaking views of Lake Superior. Finally, your journey will end in Tofte. Here, you can explore the Superior National Forest, with its trails and stunning views. You can also visit the North Shore Commercial Fishing Museum, to learn about the history of fishing in the area. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your Duluth-Tofte road trip!

Start your road-trip adventure in Tofte, United States and explore the beautiful landscapes of the North Shore of Lake Superior. Within a two-hour drive that covers 62 miles, you will reach your destination, Grand Portage. Along the way, you will be amazed by the beauty of the Sawtooth Mountains, the cascading waterfalls, and the majestic Lake Superior. Your first stop should be at Temperance River State Park, where you can admire the stunning views of the river, the rocky cliffs, and the lush forests. Then, you can visit Cascade River State Park, where you can take a short hike and observe the beautiful cascading waterfalls. Afterwards, you can take a break at Lutsen Mountains, where you can take the gondola to the top of Moose Mountain and enjoy the breathtaking views of Lake Superior. You can also find some interesting historical sites and museums in Grand Portage, like the Grand Portage National Monument and the North West Company Fur Trade Museum. At the end of your journey, you can take a break at Judge C.R. Magney State Park. Here, you can explore the Devil’s Kettle, a mysterious waterfall that splits into two and disappears into a deep hole. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road-trip and have a great time!

Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Grand Portage, United States to Thunder Bay? This 47 mi journey will take you less than an hour and you will even cross the state border. Make sure to bring your passport! Along the way, you can visit the Grand Portage National Monument, a historic site that commemorates the fur trading activities of the Ojibwe people. You can also explore the Grand Portage State Park, with its beautiful beaches and trails. When you arrive in Thunder Bay, you can visit the Sleeping Giant Provincial Park and enjoy the stunning views of Lake Superior. There is also the Terry Fox Monument, which commemorates the heroic journey of Terry Fox. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Thunder Bay is the perfect ending to the awe-inspiring Lake Superior Panoramic Road. This bustling port city is the gateway to Northwestern Ontario, with a population of over 100,000 people, and a growing economy. A great way to explore the city is to visit the waterfront. Here, you can take a stroll along the harbor and take in the views of the Sleeping Giant mountain range, or take a boat tour to explore the shoreline. The city also offers many outdoor activities, like fishing, hiking, and biking. For those who enjoy art and culture, the Thunder Bay Art Gallery is a must-see. The gallery showcases the work of local and regional artists, with a focus on contemporary and traditional indigenous art. For foodies, Thunder Bay has plenty of delicious options. Enjoy a gourmet meal at one of the many restaurants, or explore the local markets and food trucks. There are also many craft breweries in the city, offering unique beer and cider. For those traveling by air, Thunder Bay International Airport (YQT) is the closest international airport, located just a few miles away from downtown. At the end of the Lake Superior Panoramic Road, Thunder Bay is the perfect destination for all types of travelers. With its stunning views, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine, Thunder Bay is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.

Before you set off

Embark on an unforgettable 308-kilometer (191-mile) journey along the Lake Superior Circle Route, which extends from Duluth, Minnesota, to Thunder Bay, Ontario. This picturesque Road Trip delivers breathtaking vistas of the world's largest freshwater lake by surface area, Lake Superior, and is dotted with an array of attractions ranging from natural wonders to cultural heritage sites.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Tofte: Nestled along the North Shore, Tofte offers an enchanting gateway to outdoor pursuits including canoeing in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, kayaking along the rugged coastline, and fishing in the pristine inland lakes.
• Grand Portage: Delve into history at Minnesota's oldest continuously occupied European settlement, featuring the Grand Portage National Monument where you can explore a reconstructed trading post and heritage center that chronicles the region's fur trade era.

Best Time to Go:

Optimal travel conditions are typically found from late May through early October when the landscape bursts into life with wildflowers and lush greenery, and wildlife is most active. During this time, the weather is pleasant for exploration, and all attractions are fully accessible.

Potential Risks:

Be mindful of the international border crossing from the USA to Canada, which necessitates valid travel documents such as a passport and possibly a visa. Delays can occur during peak travel times or due to heightened security measures, so be sure to check border wait times in advance and plan accordingly.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• Lake Superior is not only the largest of the Great Lakes but also holds about 10% of the world's surface fresh water.
• The region is home to several lighthouses, with Split Rock Lighthouse being one of the most iconic.
• The route passes through the Superior National Forest, offering chances to spot wildlife such as moose, black bears, and eagles.
• The drive can be a journey through geological time, showcasing ancient rock formations and the effects of glaciers.

A good choice for:

The Lake Superior Panoramic Road is more than a Road Trip; it's an expedition through diverse ecosystems and a deep dive into the cultural tapestry of the region. From the mesmerizing shoreline to the historical landmarks, this route promises a comprehensive experience for travelers seeking both natural beauty and a touch of history.