The start of fall can mean a great many things! Wrapping up summer, however somber, does come with benefits for those of us that enjoy cool fall air with no bugs and trees brimming with vivid colors. Pumpkins, cider, apple harvest, and scenic drives are just a few of the added bonuses that make this season extraordinary!
Speaking from experience, setting aside a week or two at the end of September, or early October can really be the best time to enjoy the Superior National Forest in all its splendor, and Minnesota’s northern forest unleashes the most incredible fall show. This year taking a trip to Minnesota’s north country and beyond was a great way to welcome autumn!
Our first stop included a storybook cabin in the woods, allowing us to embrace the maples and wilderness. Little Gooseberry River runs directly through the property, so the trickle of water can be heard from all directions. A small trail filled with maple leaves winds through the woods to meet up with the cabin, aka the perfect setting. We took it upon ourselves to enjoy the night stars peeking through the trees and snapped a few night shots before the moon stole the show. Thanks to On Water and Woods for providing this piece of heaven to relish in!
It’s not hard to get lost in the rainbow back roads of Minnesota, presenting visitors with 360 degree views of lush foliage and blankets of brilliance. The colorful roads last for miles upon miles, with little breaks to step out and enjoy the neighboring lake views and pristine blue water. We recommend Heartbreak Hill and the surrounding roads to make the most of maple season.
While in the area, make sure and stop at our favorite maple syrup company, Wild Country. It’s quaint and nestled in the deep rich maple forest in Lutsen, MN. Bernese mountain dogs greet you upon arrival and their little gift shop is the perfect place to get a sweet sampling of a variety of syrups (bourbon maple is top notch). This couple provides one of the best tasting maple syrups in Minnesota, and we stock up generously to make it last throughout the year.
One important part of a fall colors tour is really putting yourself in a variety of landscapes. Many enjoy the up-close and personal side to the changing leaves, but the overlooks are where you get a true depiction of autumn takeover. Hiking to places like the Bean and Bear Overlook on the Superior Hiking Trail, or climbing the sketchy reaches of Mt. Maud and Mt. Sophie fire towers will really put into perspective how much beauty can be found in our state.
Some of the last stops for us in north country typically include a good dose of waterfalls. We like to bid them farewell before snow and ice consume them. The north shore is filled with them flowing into Lake Superior, but if you feel like venturing inland a bit, Crosby Manitou cascades and Kawishiwi Falls make great pit stops and are far less bustling during fall season.
So if you’re saddened by the last of the summer days, don’t be. This new season has a lot of offer and graciously provides fun-filled activities. From all of us at 8bitstudio, we hope that you’ll enjoy the spoils of October and make the most of this chromatic season.
Photo credit: Interlaken Imagery. To see more of their photography, check them out on Instagram!
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