Minnesota Point Lighthouse Ruins
Explore the hauntingly beautiful ruins of the Minnesota Point Lighthouse, a relic of Duluth's maritime past on the shores of Lake Superior.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm weather, fewer crowds
Minnesota Point Lighthouse Ruins
Best Time
Calm weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the hauntingly beautiful ruins of the Minnesota Point Lighthouse, a relic of Duluth's maritime past on the shores of Lake Superior.
"A very nice calming place to visit, walk, enjoy the nature and do some fishing."
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The path to the lighthouse is rocky and uneven. Hiking boots or trail shoes are a must!
🧥 Dress for Lake Superior
Winds can be fierce and weather changes fast. Layers are your best friend.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Minnesota Point Lighthouse Ruins
End of Minnesota Point
A hauntingly beautiful, fenced-off relic of maritime history on the shores of Lake Superior.
Lake Superior's North Shore
Minnesota Point
Experience the raw, natural beauty and powerful winds of the largest freshwater lake in the world.
Canal Park
Duluth Waterfront
A vibrant hub with scenic views, maritime history, and a gateway to the lighthouse trail.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Mind the Rocks and Weather
Respect the Ruins
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The path to the lighthouse is rocky and uneven. Hiking boots or trail shoes are a must!
🧥 Dress for Lake Superior
Winds can be fierce and weather changes fast. Layers are your best friend.
🔒 Secure Your Phone
Keep your phone in a deep pocket or waterproof bag, especially near the water.
📸 Respect the Fence
The lighthouse is fenced off. Admire its beauty from a safe distance.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The path to the lighthouse is rocky and uneven. Hiking boots or trail shoes are a must!
🧥 Dress for Lake Superior
Winds can be fierce and weather changes fast. Layers are your best friend.
🔒 Secure Your Phone
Keep your phone in a deep pocket or waterproof bag, especially near the water.
📸 Respect the Fence
The lighthouse is fenced off. Admire its beauty from a safe distance.
🎣 Fishing Opportunities
The area is also popular for fishing; locals are friendly and knowledgeable.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Minnesota Point Lighthouse Ruins to be a beautiful and calming spot, offering a unique glimpse into maritime history. While the hike can be challenging due to rocky terrain, the scenic views of Lake Superior and the melancholic beauty of the ruins are highly praised. Some wish for more historical information and better site development.
"Very Very nice calming place to visit, walk, enjoy the nature and do some fishing.
I also met a local hobbiest fisher-man. He gave a good intro to the lake history and lot of info on fishing at the lake. A great guy. Thanks for the info.
Note: Unless you are wearing good hiking shoes and your cell phone is secured in a bag or deep pocket, please take my advice, do not try to walk to the light house. Those giagantic rocks on tbe pathway, are Not very friendly.
Highly Recomended !"
Griffin Latif
"Worth hiking to on a nice day, even though it's fenced off and you can't go inside it (a bit disappointing). A very beautiful area and a melancholy old ruin of a lighthouse. Took my daughter on a hike here and we both had a blast."
Andrew Timothy Post
"A little overgrown and a chain link fence keep you from getting too close or enjoying the full view of the tower. An interesting relic, would be nice if the site was a little more developed sharing the history. There is an abandoned building covered in graffiti not to far from here."
Trypp Adams
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The ruins are located at the very end of Minnesota Point in Duluth. You'll need to drive or bike along the point. The final approach involves a sandy trail that can be challenging, so sturdy footwear is essential.
Parking is available along Minnesota Point, but it can be limited, especially on weekends. The closest accessible parking is at the base of the point, requiring a hike to the ruins.
Yes, biking is a great way to reach the lighthouse. The paved path along the point is scenic, but be prepared to dismount and walk your bike over the sandy sections near the end.
Many visitors recommend hiking from the parking areas on Minnesota Point. Be prepared for a walk, and ensure you have appropriate footwear due to the rocky terrain.
You can drive most of the way down Minnesota Point, but the final approach to the lighthouse ruins is not accessible by car due to the sandy and rocky terrain.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to visit the Minnesota Point Lighthouse Ruins. It's a public area, though access to the lighthouse structure itself is restricted by a fence.
The lighthouse ruins are accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, it's best to visit during good weather and daylight for safety and visibility.
Unfortunately, no. The lighthouse is fenced off and in a state of ruin, so you cannot enter the structure itself.
There is no entrance fee for Minnesota Point or the lighthouse ruins. It's a natural area managed by the city of Duluth.
Currently, there are no official guided tours of the lighthouse ruins. Visitors typically explore the area independently.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a scenic walk, admire the historic lighthouse ruins, take in stunning views of Lake Superior, and even do some fishing. It's a great spot for nature lovers and photographers.
The hike can be moderately difficult due to the sandy terrain and large rocks. Sturdy hiking shoes are highly recommended to navigate the path safely.
You might spot various birds, especially waterfowl, given its proximity to Lake Superior. Keep an eye out for local flora as well.
It's generally safe if you wear appropriate footwear and are mindful of the rocky path. Avoid visiting during severe weather or high winds.
The ruins themselves offer a dramatic subject, especially during sunrise or sunset. The expansive views of Lake Superior are also incredibly photogenic.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for capturing the melancholic beauty of the ruins and the vastness of Lake Superior.
Experiment with wide shots to capture the scale of the lake and ruins, and closer shots to highlight the textures and decay of the structure.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto can capture details of the ruins. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions at sunrise/sunset.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check current FAA guidelines and local Duluth ordinances before flying a drone in the area.
Be mindful of the weather, especially strong winds from Lake Superior. Also, respect the fenced-off areas and avoid disturbing the site.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the lighthouse itself is fenced off, the surrounding natural beauty and the vastness of Lake Superior can be captivating for kids. It's a great opportunity to talk about local history, maritime life, and the power of nature. Pack snacks and water, and keep a close eye on children, especially near the water's edge.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Be prepared for the elements; the winds off the lake can be significant, and the weather can change rapidly. The ruins themselves add a layer of historical intrigue to the natural beauty, making it a perfect spot for photography and quiet contemplation of the landscape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Minnesota Point Lighthouse
While the exact reasons for its abandonment and current state are complex, the structure stands as a poignant reminder of Duluth's rich maritime past and the ever-changing landscape of the Great Lakes. Visitors often remark on its melancholic beauty and the stories it seems to whisper from its weathered facade.
Today, the ruins are a popular spot for photographers and history enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of Great Lakes shipping. Despite being fenced off, its presence continues to draw visitors seeking a connection to the area's heritage.
Navigating the Terrain and Weather
Beyond the ground conditions, Lake Superior itself dictates the experience. The weather can shift dramatically and quickly, with winds often reaching significant speeds, as noted by some visitors. It's crucial to check the forecast before you go and dress in layers. A waterproof jacket is highly recommended, as is securing your phone in a waterproof bag or a deep pocket to prevent accidental drops into the water or sand.
This combination of challenging terrain and unpredictable weather means that while the destination is rewarding, the journey requires preparation. It's part of what makes the visit feel like a true exploration rather than a casual stroll.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit