Superior Hiking Trail Camp and Explore

Overview

Discover the Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) along the North Shore of Lake Superior, showcasing waterfalls, rapids, and gorges as it winds through Minnesota’s Northwoods. Base camp at a state park and fall asleep listening to the sounds of the North Shore. Hike along the SHT, taking in nature’s entire spectrum of beauty from admiring high panoramic overlooks of the lake to noticing the smallest lichens that blanket the rugged rocks. Come experience the land that has been shared through story and song for thousands of years.

Itinerary

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Drive up the North Shore of Lake Superior to your Minnesota State Park where our trip officially begins. Settle into the campsite before embarking on an afternoon hike into the Sawtooth Mountain Range. On day one you’ll be rewarded with wonderful views of Lake Superior! Spend the first night tucked under the tall pines along the shore.

Arise for an early breakfast, pack up, and head to Split Rock Lighthouse State Park. Hike the five-mile Split Rock River Loop, one of the premier day hike loops on the Superior Hiking Trail. Enjoy lunch along the Lake Superior shoreline. Complete the remainder of the hiking loop, climbing a number of beautiful overlooks, some from more than 50 feet above the river! Take in one last view as the river cascades past red rock cliffs draped with conifers before heading back to our campsite.

After one last breakfast, get the chance to explore any parts of the State Park we may have missed. Bid farewell to the Superior shoreline before packing up belongings and hitting the road after lunch. Just because our trip ends in the early afternoon doesn’t mean you can’t explore the wonderful roadside attractions on the way home! Ask your guide for must see spots along the famed Highway 61 that gets you back to Duluth.

Dates & Fees

WI leads trips to the Superior Hiking Trail but currently has no dates scheduled for this itinerary. If you have a group of people interested, we can set up a customized adventure just for you! Please contact us or request a trip quote below if you are interested in a group trip to this destination.

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What to Expect

TERRAIN/ROUTE CHOICES: The Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) is characterized by ascents to rock outcroppings and cliffs, and descents into numerous river and creek valleys crossed by attractive and functional bridges. The SHT traverses a rich variety of terrain and habitat types. Much of the trail is easy walking but you will encounter sections with numerous steps and steep grades.

TYPE OF TRAVEL/DISTANCE: We will hike 3-6 miles each day with plenty of opportunities for exploration. The group will carry lightweight day packs with their personal items and lunch. No previous experience is needed to complete this trip.

WEATHER: The average temperature on the Superior Hiking Trail in early fall is 63 F degrees and rain is always a possibility. Weather in the area is strongly influenced by Lake Superior and can change suddenly.

ACCOMMODATIONS: At night you will sleep in a comfortable 4-person tent with 3-4 people per a tent (other arrangements can be made). Bathroom facilities are available at Minnesota State Parks.

MEALS: We’ll enjoy a variety of meals out on the Superior Hiking Trail. Count on hearty breakfasts, picnic trail lunches, and lively dinners, all shared. If you have special dietary restrictions, be sure to list them on your registration.

YOUR GROUP: The group size ranges from 2 to 15 participants, plus 1 or more Wilderness Inquiry staff. Each group consists of people of various ages, backgrounds, and abilities, including people with disabilities. Our trips are cooperative in nature. WI staff will assist you in whatever areas you need, however, most people pitch in where they can.

EQUIPMENT AND CLOTHING: Wilderness Inquiry will provide all group gear and equipment. You will be assigned the same gear for the duration of your trip and it will be sanitized between trips. You will need to provide your personal gear as outlined in the packing list. If you are new to outdoor activities, you do not need to spend a lot of money. Wilderness Inquiry can usually arrange for you to borrow most items.

COVID VACCINATION: All participants (and our staff) are required to be fully vaccinated and up-to-date (including the booster). Please see our website for the most recent information. https://www.wildernessinquiry.org/covid19/

HEALTH PRE-SCREENING: We encourage you to self-screen for any signs of illness prior to your trip’s departure. Please contact Wilderness Inquiry if you are exhibiting signs of illness or have been in contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19 within the 2 weeks prior to your trip departure date.

SAFETY WHILE ON TRAIL: All participants and staff must wear a well-fitted mask while riding in a Wilderness Inquiry van or participating with Wilderness Inquiry transportation. Masks are not required outdoors although some individuals may choose to wear a mask. Please respect these choices. Please ensure proper hygiene including, but not limited to, hand-washing and/or sanitizing before eating and after using the restroom. Individuals that become ill or test positive for COVID-19 during a Wilderness Inquiry experience are responsible for their own transportation and expenses to depart the trip.