Stretching along the ridgeline above Lake Superior, the Superior Hiking Trail is one of the most breathtaking long-distance hikes in the country, and hands down one of the best hikes in the Midwest. Winding more than 300 miles from the city of Duluth to the Canadian border, this rugged footpath takes hikers through dense boreal forest, past dramatic cliffs, and along cascading waterfalls.
Whether you’re in for a short afternoon trek or a multi-day backpacking trip, hiking the Superior Hiking Trail offers a chance to reconnect with nature and take in some of Minnesota’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. If you love getting out into the wild expanse of the Midwest’s natural spaces, far away from the busy crowds and vibrant summer activities, this is one hike that should be high on your list for summer or fall.
The Superior Hiking Trail is just one of the fantastic long-range hikes in the Midwest. In neighboring Wisconsin, there’s also the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. These trails are just the beginning of hiking adventures in the Midwest, and are just one example of how rich and varied the outdoor experiences are across the region. From the deep woods and dramatic overlooks of the Lake Superior Hiking Trail to the peaceful prairie paths in southern Minnesota and beyond, the Midwest is a hiker’s paradise. State parks, forest preserves, and community trails offer everything from rugged climbs to gentle strolls. The diversity of hiking in the Midwest will surprise and delight you every step of the way.
Just as these trails offer a delightful surprise, so too do the Bed and Breakfasts belonging to the Midwest Association of Independent Inns. We offer some of the best lodging in regions all across the Midwest and serve as your trusted resource for authentic travel experiences and insight. Stay at one of our Inns, and you’ll enjoy a more personalized, welcoming, and memorable stay. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls along Minnesota hiking trails or discovering new favorites on trails all over the Midwest, now’s the time to book your adventure!
What to Know About the Superior Hiking Trail
The Superior Hiking Trail, often referred to as the SHT, is a true Midwest icon. This rugged, scenic footpath stretches approximately 310 miles along Minnesota’s North Shore, from Jay Cooke State Park near Duluth all the way to the Canadian border. It winds through a diverse landscape of boreal forests, dramatic ridgelines, rocky overlooks, and rushing waterfalls, offering constant views of Lake Superior and access to some of the best Minnesota hiking trails around.
The Superior Hiking Trail is divided into 94 backcountry campsites and roughly 50 trail sections, giving hikers plenty of flexibility in how they explore. Whether you’re out for a day hike or attempting a thru-hike, this trail brings unforgettable views, wildlife sightings, and a strong sense of connection to the natural world.
The Superior Hiking Trail is known for its range of difficulty levels, from gentle ascents to more technical climbs, and it’s accessible from a number of trailheads along Highway 61. While hiking the entire trail is a serious commitment that can take several weeks, many people choose to tackle it in sections. Some of the most popular segments of the Superior Hiking Trails include:
- Oberg Mountain Loop (2.3 miles): A moderate loop trail offering sweeping views of Lake Superior and the inland forest. This is a favorite for spotting vibrant Minnesota fall colors.
- Gooseberry Falls to Split Rock Lighthouse (8.6 miles): One of the most scenic stretches on the trail, featuring waterfalls, Lake Superior cliffs, and the iconic Split Rock Lighthouse.
- Carlton Peak (3.4 miles out and back): A short but steep hike that rewards with panoramic views of the Sawtooth Mountains and the lake. A must-do for photographers.
- Cascade River Loop (3.5 miles): Packed with dramatic river views, deep gorges, and cedar forests, it’s especially impressive in early spring with snowmelt runoff.
- Section 13 to Bean and Bear Lakes (6.5 miles): Considered one of the most rugged and beautiful parts of the trail, this stretch offers epic cliffside views and alpine-style lakes.
Hikers can expect a true backcountry experience with minimal development, but good signage and well-maintained trail conditions thanks to the Superior Hiking Trail Association. Be sure to carry a map or download offline navigation tools, as cell service can be spotty in remote areas. Backcountry camping is available at designated sites along the trail and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. No permits are required for individual hikers.
The best time to hike the Superior Hiking Trail is from late spring through mid-fall, with September and early October offering stunning fall foliage. Summer brings mild temperatures and longer daylight hours, while spring can offer dramatic waterfall viewing. No matter when you go, you’ll find the Lake Superior Hiking Trail to be a rewarding and rugged journey into the heart of northern Minnesota, and one of the finest Midwest hiking trails around.
The Best Lodging Near the Superior Hiking Trail
After a day spent climbing ridgelines, crossing rivers, and taking in the sweeping views along the Superior Hiking Trail, there’s nothing better than coming back to a place that feels like home. Whether you’ve tackled a quick out-and-back segments or covered miles of rugged terrain on a section hike, resting your legs somewhere comfortable, peaceful, and well cared for can transform the entire experience.
Luckily, some of the best Minnesota Bed and Breakfasts are located along or near the trail, offering a perfect way to recharge without sacrificing the beauty or charm of your surroundings. These are independently owned inns whose sole focus is on providing hospitality that is personal and thoughtful. Moreover, our Innkeepers know the region and can offer real recommendations for hidden trailheads, fantastic local restaurants when you need to refuel, and maybe even a place offering relaxing massages to soothe your tired muscles. Many will even make you a fresh and delicious breakfast before you set out for your Superior Hiking Trail adventure for the Day!
A stay at one of our Bed and Breakfasts goes well beyond the basics. It’s that combination of comfort, character, and genuine care that makes these B&Bs the best choice for lodging in the Midwest, especially when you want to balance outdoor adventure with a touch of everyday luxury. From trail to table, the Midwest Association of Independent Inns offers a higher standard of stay, and it’s the perfect complement to one of the most incredible hiking trails in the country. Book your stay today!