US Coast Guard Station of North Superior at Grand Marais, Minnesota on Lake Superior.

9 Off-The-Beaten-Path Towns In Minnesota

There are more than 700 small towns in Minnesota, yet it is only a few that frequently feature on most itineraries. This leaves out hundreds of fun destinations that are yet to be explored. Despite this, they provide a similarly gratifying experience compared with touring the more famous cities, with fewer crowds and less chaos to worry about. Visitors can look forward to an array of pleasant encounters in the state's backcountry, from exploring pristine natural environments to interacting with close-knit communities where everybody knows everybody.

Between the charming lakefront scenery in Ely and the rugged forest landscapes of Crane Lake, these remote towns in Minnesota are perfect for those seeking peaceful solitude away from civilization. Whether seeking off-beat adventures or quality time for yourself, consider visiting these places on your next trip to North Star State.

Silver Bay

Split Rock Lighthouse is a lighthouse located southwest of Silver Bay, Minnesota.
Split Rock Lighthouse is a lighthouse located southwest of Silver Bay, Minnesota. Image credit Dennis MacDonald via Shutterstock

This Lake County gem on the shores of Lake Superior is a celebrated natural tourist hub known for its unique beaches, hidden coves, and breathtaking water views. It is home to Black Beach Park, which stands out for its rare dark sands and a pristine setting tailored for lazy picnics with family next to the water. Tettegouche State Park is another fantastic outdoor escape, with miles of hiking trails, rock climbing areas, trout lakes, and campsites. You can also get on a kayak to explore mysterious underwater sea caves in the lake.

Meanwhile, golf enthusiasts can test their swing at Silver Bay Golf Course, which harbors surreal natural surroundings with forested hills and well-laid-out greens and fairways. The 9-hole course presents a decent challenge for amateurs and seasoned players alike.

Crane Lake

Bird's Eye View of the Water Rushing into the Gorge - Vermilion Falls, Crane Lake/Orr, Minnesota
Vermilion Falls, Crane Lake, Minnesota.

A trip to Crane Lake takes you to the heart of the Kabetogama State Forest, where an unspoiled wilderness serves as the ultimate playground for a range of off-the-beaten-path outdoor adventures. Prepare for remarkable hikes on the rugged trails that wind through the town, including the 3-mile Vermilion Gorge Trailhead. It boasts spectacular views of the Vermilion River with multiple vantage points where you can pause to take in the scenery. If you fancy chasing waterfalls, you can take on the shorter Vermilion Falls Trail, which culminates in a postcard-worthy cascade.

Several local outfitters schedule exciting boating and canoeing excursions to explore Voyageurs National Park. You can book a tour with Anderson's Canoe Outfitters for a unique perspective of the scenery from the water.

Schroeder

A view of Sugar Loaf Cove in Schroeder, Minnesota.
A view of Sugar Loaf Cove in Schroeder, Minnesota.

With a population of less than 200, the charming community of Lake Superior's North Shore is one of the off-beat towns in Minnesota, with a reputation for being an adventurer's dream destination. Its sprawling outdoor scenery features gems like Temperance River State Park, a bustling recreational hub. It offers stunning panoramas of the winding river, gorge, rapids, and waterfalls while providing opportunities for hikers, hunters, campers, and nature photographers. The Sugarloaf Cove Nature Center boasts one of the most stunning scenery in the town. It features a cobblestone beach on the Lake Superior shoreline, and rugged lava flows from over a billion years ago.

While perusing the great outdoors, you can also discover local history at Father Baraga's Cross Historical Marker. This beautiful lakeside spot is a notable historical landmark that pays tribute to Bishop Frederic Baraga from Yugoslavia.

Lutsen

Senior campers head out in a canoe on a northern Minnesota lake with their guides for a Boundary Waters camping trip
Canoe on a northern Minnesota lake with their guides for a Boundary Waters camping trip near Lutsen, Minnesota. Image credit Dan Thornberg via Shutterstock

Lutsen is a hidden gem in Cook County with supreme natural allure, framed by the dense woodlands of the Superior National Forest and the blue waters of Lake Superior. It is a popular four-season destination with summer adventurers heading to Cascade River State Park to hike scenic trails, chase waterfalls, and stake out native bird and animal species. More adventurous travelers can embrace an adrenaline-rushing ride on the Summit Express Gondola to the summit of Moose Mountain. The views of the forest canopy and water from 1,000 feet high are simply breathtaking.

Bluebird day at Lutsen Minnesota
Skiing in Lutsen, Minnesota.

On the other hand, winter enthusiasts are spoilt for choice, thanks to multiple ski resorts in Lutsen. Snowboarders, skiers, and tubers congregate at Lutsen Mountains to make the most of a 1,000-acre winter playground with 95 runs and an 825-foot vertical drop. Nearby, find luxury accommodations, such as Caribou Highlands Lodge.

Grand Marais

Grand Marais Light against the backdrop of the Sawtooth Mountains on Lake Superior, Grand Marais, Minnesota.
Grand Marais Light against the backdrop of the Sawtooth Mountains on Lake Superior, Grand Marais, Minnesota.

Grand Marais sits on the Lake Superior North Shore and harbors a thriving arts community with a strong sense of family. A cluster of galleries throughout the downtown region reflects its creative heritage while inviting newcomers to sample local arts at the Sivertson Gallery. The venue displays works by over 50 regional artists, ranging from carvings and paintings to jewelry and woodwork. Beyond the downtown limits, ardent outdoorsmen have free rein to explore Judge C.R. Magney State Park. The vast wilderness draws campers, hikers, wildlife views, and sightseers, with unmatched views of Devil's Kettle Waterfall.

The Grand Marais Lighthouse is a conspicuous sight and a vital historical landmark, reminding visitors of the town's maritime heritage. It was constructed in 1885 and rises over the shores of Lake Superior, making it an ideal backdrop for a photo.

Tofte

Abandoned Ore Dock on Lake Superior in Tofte, Minnesota.
Abandoned Ore Dock on Lake Superior in Tofte, Minnesota. Image credit A_.ndrew via Shutterstock

Tofte offers off-the-beaten-path lakeside solitude and rugged adventures throughout its sprawling and diverse wilderness areas. Hikers are in for a remarkable experience along the Oberg Mountain Loop. This moderately challenging 3-mile trek weaves through the Superior National Forest, dotted with vantage points with sweeping views of Oberg Lake and Moose Mountain. The Ray Berglund State Wayside keeps the outdoor fun going with numerous hiking trails.

After a tedious day packed with demanding activities, tourists will relish a professional massage at Superior Massage Therapists to heal their aching muscles. Later, a hearty dinner in the romantic setting of Bluefin Grille is the perfect way to wind up the day, blending savory seafood with stunning Lake Superior vistas.

Ely

Aerial view of Ely, Minnesota with surrounding forests and lakes.
Aerial view of Ely, Minnesota, with surrounding forests and lakes.

Ely has a magnetic effect on outdoorsy travelers, bringing adventure to their minds and offering endless opportunities through its stunning natural landscapes. The 4-mile Trezona Trail thrusts explorers into the heart of Ely's countryside, cutting through a wooded section bordering Miners Lake and exposing guests to the breathtaking scenery. If you are an animal lover, consider visiting the International Wolf Center for up-close encounters with the majestic canines. The beautiful sanctuary also shares educational exhibits about wolves and their ecology.

Meanwhile, historians can discover Dorothy Molter's rich legacy at the Dorothy Molter Museum. The living history museum offers self-guided tours of original cabins and natural areas associated with the early Ely region icon.

Lanesboro

The Scandinavian Inn, a Victorian style Bed and Breakfast in Lanesboro, Minnesota.
The Scandinavian Inn, a Victorian style Bed and Breakfast in Lanesboro, Minnesota. Image credit Edgar Lee Espe via Shutterstock

This tiny village on the Root River banks is recognized for its vibrant arts and culture scene, craft brewery culture, and river adventures. Performance and visual art lovers can find opportunities to indulge in their favorite pastimes at the Commonweal Theatre Company and Lanesboro Arts. The former has been treating audiences to compelling live theatrical productions since 1989, becoming a local hub. Beer lovers can join patrons at Sylvan Brewing for a pint of great-tasting crafts. As Lanesboro's first brewery, it has a rustic yet intimate atmosphere and a legacy dating more than a century.

Those feeling adventurous will gravitate towards Root River Outfitters for a thrilling canoeing or kayaking excursion down the Root River. This is a popular summer activity in town and accommodates all ages.

Taylors Falls

St. Croix River in Taylors Falls, Minnesota.
St. Croix River in Taylors Falls, Minnesota. Image credit Linda McKusick via Shutterstock

Under an hour from Minneapolis, this small town in Chisago County promises visitors water-based fun along the St. Croix River and awesome adventures across its spell-binding natural scenery. Opportunities abound at Interstate State Park, from fishing and kayaking to camping and canoeing. The reserve offers 298 acres of recreational terrain, with Taylors Falls Canoe & Kayak Rental allowing tourists to access the gentle waters of the St. Croix River. It gets even better with the Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours. This easygoing cruise has all the elements of a memorable experience, providing a unique perspective of the town from the water.

Outdoor fun in Taylors Falls runs around the year, and winter travelers access the snowy slopes of Wild Mountain for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. The facility also features a waterpark, go-karts, and alpine slides that take precedence in summer.

Take a trip to any of these off-the-beaten-path small towns in Minnesota and make them a mainstay of your upcoming travel itineraries of the United States. Despite their apparent lack of fanfare, they give their city counterparts a run for their money with their unmatched natural sceneries, thrilling outdoor adventures, and down-to-earth locals. Whether getting lost in the forested wilderness of Crane Lake or chilling on the soothing Lake Superior shoreline in Schroeder, the stage is set for a wholesome vacation in the North Star State.

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