Matchbooks are an uncommon sight these days. These were on the mantelpiece in our unit at Bluefin Bay to light the log fire. We never did light the fire. Maybe next time.
Category: Up North
Superior view
The sun was rising over Lake Superior as we walked to Coho Cafe to fuel up for today’s hike.
Straight-through hike via Poplar River viewpoint
Our brother-in-law joined us for today’s hike. By dropping a car at our Lutsen finish point, we were able to hike straight-through instead of doing a loop. This section of the Superior Hiking Trail first took us along Lake Agnes, a body of water largely created by a beaver dam. From there, we headed uphill to great viewpoints, including one of my favorite views, shown here, looking toward the Poplar River.
Two-river loop
Hiked a loop: Cross River on the ascent, a wooded ridge trail with glimpses of Lake Superior, then Temperance River on the descent.
Lutsen Mountains hike
Fortified by GORP we hiked a moderately energetic loop starting at the lodge where we’re staying in Lutsen’s ski area. Here, early in the hike, we crossed the Poplar River. If you squint, you can just see Lake Superior in the distance.
Split Rock River hike
Hiked up one side of Split Rock River, improvised a river crossing (the bridge was out), then hiked back down the other side. Here, towards the end of our hike, this split rock is possibly the origin of the river’s name. Behind, the river flows through a gorge. And overhead the blue sky promises to hold for the next few days.
Duluth Lift Bridge this evening
A thunderstorm was coming in behind us as we walked back after dinner, but we were safely at our hotel by the time it was overhead. Earlier we hiked a lovely loop trail through fall colors in the hills above Duluth.
Superior Hiking Trail 2025
More journeys ≫
Until Next Time
Walked past this damp scene on our way to breakfast at Coho Cafe. After three nights at Bluefin Bay in Tofte, it was time to head back to the Cities. We timed our departure well, as overnight rain and cooler temperatures made hiking less appealing.
A Warm Finish to the SHT
Our final Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) adventure took us to Leveaux Mountain and, here, Leveaux Pond. If you look closely, you can spot a beaver lodge on the left. We’ve been lucky with the weather these past six days, with today’s temperatures reaching an unseasonably warm 60’s.