Split Rock Lighthouse State Park Guide

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, Minnesota NEEDS to be on your bucket list. Minnesota is home to SO many hidden gems and natural wonders. Split Rock Lighthouse State Park will give you one of the very best views in the state!

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How to get to Split Rock Lighthouse?

The Split Rock Lighthouse can be found at 3713 Split Rock Lighthouse Rd. in Two Harbors MN 55616. Located right along the Minnesota North Shore, it will be the perfect stop on this amazing natural wonders road trip!

• Distance from Duluth, MN Airport: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Distance from Minneapolis, MN Airport: 3 hours 8 minutes

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Other Details to know before you visit

• Hours: Everyday 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
• Visitor center and museum shop Hours: Thursday – Monday, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
• Cost: FREE (Extra for tour of lighthouse)
• COVID UPDATE: Unfortunately, the lighthouse and other on-site historical buildings are temporarily closed. BUT the outdoors and views are NOT canceled 🙂

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When is the best time to visit?

• Winter: (December-Feb) 26/10 Degrees Fahrenheit
• Spring: (March-May) 47/30 Degrees Fahrenheit
• Summer: (June- August) 72/52 Degrees Fahrenheit
• Fall: (Sept-November) 53/37 Degrees Fahrenheit

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Things to do at Split Rock Lighthouse

Aside from the beautiful vies of the lighthouse, there are many more adventurous things to do in this state park. Here are some things you can do at Split Rock Lighthouse State Park:

Camping

There are numerous campsites in the park. These campsites are regulated by the MN department of natural resources (DNR). If you plan to camp, be sure to make your reservations, and review all rules and regulations set forth by the DNR to ensure the campsites and the park stays beautiful and healthy!

Hiking

There is a short quarter-mile trail that leads down to the shore of Lake Superior. Along the trail are multiple different areas to stop and have a picnic. Dont forget to stop and check out the rock beach lining the lake!

If you are looking for something more challenging, the Superior Hiking Trail passes through the park which offers trails from Duluth all the way to the Canadian border!! Grab your hiking shoes and take off on this BEAUTIFUL trail.

Water Adventures

If you would rather travel by the water, you can also canoe or kayak the shores of Lake Superior! There are numerous breathtaking views from the water and also some paddle in campsites! Just be sure to check the weather and stay close to shore!

Kayak and Canoe Rentals Near Split Rock Lighthouse: Beavers Bay Sports Shop

Biking/Rollerblading

The Gitchi-Gami State Trail is a paved trail that runs through the park. This is an awesome option that offers numerous miles of trail for running, walking, biking, rollerblading or any other mode of travel you might want to give a try! While on the trail you will have some outstanding views and will be able to listen to the lake as you go!

North Shore Scenic Drive

If you don’t want to or are unable to get outdoors on one of the trails, no need to worry! You are able to drive or take your motorcycle on highway 61, which is the North Shore Scenic Drive, and let me tell you, it didn’t earn the name of Scenic Drive for no reason!! This drive also stretches from Duluth to Canada!

Winter Things to do

Keep in mind, the park does not close during the winter. Although the weather may not be as enjoyable, you can partake in winter hiking, fat tire biking, snowshoeing, or simply enjoying the beauty of Lake Superior and rocks glazed in ice and snow. The entire park is still extremely scenic in the winter!

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Where to stay?

If camping is not your thing, there are many hotels and Airbnbs to choose from. Below are some of my favorites, but be sure to check out HotelsCombined or Airbnb for all your options at the best price!

• Larsmont Cottages– Cozy Lakeside cottages with an onsite bar and restaurant, outdoor hot tub, sauna, and indoor heated pool.
• Cove Point Lodge– Waterfront hotel with continental breakfast, indoor pool, AND continental breakfast!
• Edgewater Waterpark & Hotel– Located in Duluth and complete with an arcade, waterpark, and outdoor pool and hot tub!

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History of Split Rock Lighthouse

Why was it built?

In the early 20th century, the United States began booming in the Iron Ore industry. With this growing industry leads the need for transportation of the product. Organizations opted for the transportation by water. On November 28th, 1905 there was a bad storm on the waters of Lake Superior. This storm damaged 29 ships in the area. Many of these ships were property of US Steel. This storm sparked the need for the lighthouse.

In 1910, the US Lighthouse service completed the construction of the facility. 

As new navigational technology, such as Long Range Navigation (LORAN), radar, and Global Positioning System (GPS), began to emerge, the use of lighthouses as a navigational tool declined. Split Rock Light Station was closed in 1969.

Present Day

The State of Minnesota obtained the historic and scenic landmark in 1971 and transferred administrative responsibility for the 25-acre Split Rock Lighthouse historic site to the Minnesota Historical Society in 1976.

The Lighthouse is estimated to attract over 150,000 people each year to see the view!

Want more information on the Lighthouse?

Fun Facts

• The lighthouse is 54 feet high.
• The lighthouse sits on a 130-foot high cliff.
• The lighthouse had a 1000-watt bulb.
• The official range of the light is 22 miles!

Author Bio: Noah from The Doggyverse submitted this post as Split Rock Lighthouse is one of his FAVORITE places to take all the pups! Be sure to check out all his expert doggy articles over at The Doggyverse!

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