Minnesota is full of natural wonders. From our endless forests to our beautiful rivers to our 10,000 sparkling lakes, this state is full of nature’s treasures. But for many people, the best natural wonder of all is Lake Superior. With about 150 miles of Lake Superior coastline, this little slice of Minnesota has plenty of beaches, waterfalls, rock formations, and other natural beauties that are easily accessible to swimmers and hikers.

But there are other ways to enjoy the lake’s beauty that require even less effort. For example, you could drive up to Hawk Ridge in Duluth to see the lake from afar without ever getting out of your car. Here’s what you need to know:

Hawk Ridge is a nature reserve in Duluth, Minnesota. It's maintained by the Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory. The area is high in the hills above the city.
Adnan Akram/Google
Though it is a few miles from the lakefront, Hawk Ridge offers some of the best views of Lake Superior around. You don't even have to get out of your car to see the gorgeous landscape stretched below you.
TJ Lydon/Google
When you arrive, you'll be amazed by Duluth's panoramic beauty. Below, over the tops of trees, you'll see distant houses. In the fall, the colors are absolutely breathtaking.
Kurt Haubrich/Flickr
But the views are gorgeous no matter when you visit. In the spring and winter, with the trees bare, you'll have a unique view of the hill and its many trees.
Sharon Mollerus/Flickr

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And in the summer, the contrast of the green foliage with the blue sky and distant lake is unforgettable.
Kehl Mandt/Google
No matter when you visit, you will love visiting Hawk Ridge. In the distance, over the trees and houses, you'll see the sparkling blue waters of Lake Superior.
JR Zuhlke/Google
Of course, it's not just the views that make Hawk Ridge a great place to visit. It's a bird observatory, too! Bring your binoculars to spot hawks, eagles, and many other bird species from this high vantage point.
David Larson/Flickr
Next time you're itching for a quiet day out, take a visit to Hawk Ridge. This beautiful park allows you to view Minnesota's greatest natural wonder from an amazing vantage point.
John/Flickr

Have you been to Hawk Ridge? Where are your other favorite places to see Lake Superior from your car? Let us know in the comments! And if you know of any other places around Minnesota that deserve some spotlight, be sure to nominate them.

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Featured Addresses
Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory, 3980 E Skyline Pkwy, Duluth, MN 55804, USA