This Easy, 4-Mile Hike In Minnesota Leads Across A Sandbar On Its Way To An Abandoned Lighthouse
By Betsy Rathburn|Published May 11, 2021
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Betsy Rathburn
Author
Betsy is a Minneapolis-based writer who's lived in Minnesota for 20 years. If you know of any amazing Minnesota restaurants, nature areas, or other attractions, feel free to let her know about them at brathburn@onlyinyourstate.com or on Twitter @betsyrathburn.
Here in Minnesota, unique hikes are around every corner! You can find paths to glorious waterfalls, through enchanting forests, and alongside the shores of sparkling lakes. But there are plenty of other places to discover as well! One of the most unique hikes that we’ve come across is a 4-mile trek across a Lake Superior sandbar. When you get to the end of the trail, you’ll stumble on an abandoned lighthouse. This easy hike is full of great views of nature and a unique look at a piece of Minnesota’s forgotten history. Read on below to learn more about this trail.
If you’ve been to Duluth, you’ve likely visited the world’s largest freshwater sandbar! Officially called Minnesota Point, it’s also commonly called Park Point. It’s about 7 miles long, and it features beautiful, windswept beaches along Lake Superior.
On summer days, the sand is often packed with people taking in the sun - and the views. Depending on which part of Minnesota Point you visit, you’ll be treated with views of distant downtown Duluth, sparkling waters, and sometimes even boats sailing into the harbor.
These are all great reasons to visit. But many people don’t realize that there are also trails along Minnesota Point. One, in particular, leads to a mysteriously abandoned lighthouse. The trail is about 4 miles long.
The path begins near Sky Harbor Airport, where you’ll find a gravel path through the trees. If you follow it for around 1 mile, you’ll come to a fork. Head right…
…and continue following the path. Eventually, you’ll reach a sandy area with a lovely view of the lake. At this point, you’ll be very close to the lighthouse.
Keep going for just under a mile, and the lighthouse will soon come into view. It’s surrounded by a field covered in tall grasses and weeds, so you might want to make sure to wear sturdy shoes if you visit.
Venture closer, and you’ll see the lighthouse up close. This 50-foot-tall lighthouse was built in 1855. Though it has crumbled significantly since, it was among the first powerful lighthouses on Lake Superior. It helped ships safely navigate the waters for two decades.
Though this lighthouse is no longer operating, it’s still an interesting piece of Duluth history - and a curious place to visit next time you’re exploring Minnesota Point!
Have you ever hiked the abandoned lighthouse trail? Do you have any other favorite unique trails in Minnesota? Let us know in the comments! And if you’re looking for other hikes, check out our past list of 7 scenic hiking trails in Minnesota.
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