Fall is one of the most captivating seasons on the North Shore and Gunflint Trail. Our deep green forests transform into brilliant fields of red, orange and yellow over the course of a few short weeks. Whether your fall color viewing plan is to go for a hike, bike or a scenic fall color drive - we're here to help guide you towards the best activities. 

COVID-19 update: Our community has worked hard to keep COVID-19 infections low. Businesses in Cook County are operating in accordance with Minnesota Department of Health guidelines and remain open to serve guests. It is strongly encouraged that everyone continue the practices of social distancing, frequent handwashing, use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers, and wearing of masks indoors and whenever a business has a posted preference. Please adhere to our Visitor Pledge and mask when asked!

Fall is one of the most captivating seasons on the North Shore and Gunflint Trail. Our deep green forests transform into brilliant fields of red, orange and yellow over the course of a few short weeks. Whether your fall color viewing plan is to go for a hike, bike or a scenic fall color drive - we're here to help guide you towards the best activities. 

The moment the first trees start to change, excitement ensues. The first question we start to hear around town is “when will it be peak fall color?” While it is difficult to predict, peak fall foliage in Minnesota is typically the last weekend of September & first weekend of October. First to go are the maple trees which begin turning in early-September. Depending on conditions, the peak fall color will extend on either side of the two peak weekends and sometimes longer. For a great resource for estimating this year’s fall color - review past fall color status reports. This PDF, produced by the Superior National Forest Service office in Tofte, demonstrates a comparison of eight years of peak fall foliage in Minnesota dates also check the Fall Color Finder map updated weekly for the most up-to-date fall color report.

Being out in nature is an incredible thing. It’s one of the primary reasons so many fine folks choose to make the journey north every fall. Cook County is the perfect place to be inspired by nature. Stepping out of the towns and into natural areas engages every one of our senses. The views take our breath away. The smells bring us back to our childhood. The sounds of animals, birds and the wind through the trees have a calming effect, washing away the stressors of everyday life. You’ll feel invigorated after spending time in the elements and tasting that first fall brew or exquisite local wine is the icing on the cake.

Simply being out in the wilderness forges connections between the land, our minds and our bodies. It’s no wonder so many of us turn to nature for inspiration.

Talking Tourism with Linda Jurek: Art, Unplugged, Fall Colors, and Upcoming Marketing 

Plein Air Grand Marais