The View From This Little-Known Overlook In Minnesota Is Almost Too Beautiful For Words
By Betsy Rathburn|Published March 01, 2022
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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.
If you’ve spent any time in northern Minnesota, you may know that the Land of 10,000 Lakes is home to its very own mountain range. The Sawtooth Mountains are not as high as the Rockies – or even the much lower Appalachians – but they are beautiful all the same. The low-lying range along Lake Superior happens to be home to some of the prettiest views in Minnesota, including the overlook we’d like to introduce today. The Mount Josephine overlook isn’t well known among most Minnesotans. But it offers absolutely spectacular views of Lake Superior and its islands. It’s too beautiful for words! Read on below to learn more:
Mount Josephine is a peak in the Sawtooth Mountains of northern Minnesota, just outside of Grand Portage. Like all peaks in the Sawtooth Mountains, it is beautiful from a distance. But the view gets even better from the top.
To reach the trailhead, drive up Highway 61 on the North Shore, then turn right onto County Road 73. From there, you’ll drive until you reach the end of the road, then turn left. From there, you should be able to find the trailhead.
The hike is about 2.5 miles. Because it is steep, it may be difficult for inexperienced hikers. Take your time, wear proper shoes, and bring plenty of water. For most hikers, it takes about 2 hours.
As you hike, you’ll pass through some of northern Minnesota’s most beautiful terrain. Thick forests filled with foliage and wildlife will guide you as you hike. The paths are not well maintained, so be sure to pay attention to where you step!
The trail gets more rocky as you reach the top. Eventually, views of Lake Superior will begin to appear between the trees. Though this part of the trail may be strenuous, the views will remind you of what you came for.
Finally, you’ll reach the peak. Here, 700 feet above Lake Superior, is one of the most incredible views in Minnesota. Not only will you have beautiful views of the lake itself…
…but you’ll also be able to see the Susie Islands, a group of 13 islands off the North Shore. On clear days, you may even be able to spot Isle Royale in the distance. This little-known overlook is absolutely spectacular. With a lovely wooded hike and lake and island views, it is well worth the effort to get there!
Have you ever visited Mount Josephine or any of the other peaks in the Sawtooth Mountains? Let us know in the comments! And if you’re still new to exploring Minnesota, check out our past articles about the Oberg Mountain Trail and Eagle Mountain.
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