The Land of 10,000 Lakes is known for just that: its enormous collection of beautiful, sparkling lakes. But Minnesota has much more to offer than our bodies of water. Each of these lakes is surrounded by amazing natural scenery that is worth visiting on its own. Some lakes are surrounded by old forests so thick that light barely penetrates. Others have miles of tall cliffs and rocky shorelines. Still other lakes wash sandy beaches that make it easy to spread out and enjoy the scenery.

It is a sandy beach on Lake Superior that we want to introduce today. The Black Beach in Minnesota’s North Shore is unlike anything else in the state – and maybe even in the world. It’s otherworldly beauty looks like something from another planet, and everyone should visit at least once. Here’s what you need to know:

Black Beach is a small but beautiful beach on the North Shore of Lake Superior in the northern Minnesota town of Silver Bay. It's the only beach of its kind in Minnesota.
Nicholas “Nick” Berry/Google
Once you arrive, you might not even realize you're still in the state. The beach feels like a completely different country and time, unlike anything else in Minnesota.
The black beach is known for the fine black sand that lines the shore of Lake Superior. Bordered by jagged cliffs and rock formations, it creates a unique oasis for anyone who visits.
Samuel Schumacher/Google
If you think other beaches are photogenic, they pale in comparison to the unusual beauty of this black sand beach on Lake Superior.
The black sand is not a natural occurrence. It's the result of taconite - dumped for years into the water by mining companies - washing ashore with the waves. The tiny pieces of this mineral have mixed with the sand to create an otherworldly phenomenon.
Will H/TripAdvisor
Don't worry, even though taconite was found to be harmful to the miners exposed to it, in the form of the black sand beach it's completely safe. You can experience this unique treasure without fear.
The sight of the black sand alongside the red cliffs and blue water and sky is unlike anything else in Minnesota.
Will H/TripAdvisor
The combination of colors is primed for an artist's palette.

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Speaking of cliffs, some choose to climb up to get a better view of the beach. The vantage point from above makes Minnesota look like a far-off island. The scrubby trees and bushes that decorate the rocks only add to the effect.
Marlana Zahl/Google
It can be fun to experience the beach from above, like this, and from below by walking with the sand between your toes in person.
The beach has picnic tables for guests to enjoy during their stay. This is a great place to have a picnic as you take in the beauty of Lake Superior before you.
brad henke/Google
Nicknamed Onyx Beach, this property is open year-round to visitors. There's a campground less than a mile away if you want to stay close to this natural beauty.
Black Beach is beautiful even when it's too cold to picnic. Under a blanket of snow, the beach becomes a peaceful paradise. With no sound but the water, it's one of the most relaxing places in Minnesota.
Mary J/TripAdvisor
It's fascinating to see this stark black beach transformed into a white blanket under the snow.
No matter when you visit, you'll be treated to amazing Lake Superior views. Though Black Beach is not naturally occurring, its beauty helps visitors appreciate Minnesota's natural landscape all the same.
Rich J/TripAdvisor

Black Beach is a gorgeous northern Minnesota beach that looks like something from another planet. Have you ever been to there? What did you think? If you love exploring Minnesota beaches, also visit the nearby Iona’s Beach, a singing beach that you need to experience to be believed.

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More to Explore

Beaches In Minnesota

CC | June 30, 2023

What other beaches should I visit in Minnesota?

This black sand beach is one of the most unique in Minnesota, but it’s not the only spot to enjoy the sun at. Check out these other Minnesota beaches as well.

  • Zippel Bay State Park Beach
  • Iona's Beach
  • Lake Carlos State Park Beach
  • Onyx Beach
  • Afton State Park Beach
  • Flandrau State Park Beach
  • Hayes Lake State Park Beach
  • Camden State Park Beach

 

What other natural wonders should I visit in Minnesota?

Once you’ve reached your beach bum quota for the day, consider checking out these other unique natural wonders in Minnesota. The state has so much natural beauty to offer, the hardest part is deciding what to explore first.

  • Gooseberry Falls
  • Niagara Cave
  • Artist's Point
  • Devil's Kettle
  • Croix River Dalles
  • BWCA
  • Pigeon River High Falls
  • Blue Mounds State Park
  • Palisade Head
  • Eagle Mountain

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Black Beach, Silver Bay, MN, USA