Duluth from the Skyline Parkway
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Skyline Parkway Duluth

4.6
·491k reviews·Duluth, United States

A scenic drive offering unparalleled views of Lake Superior and Duluth, dotted with overlooks and access to outdoor activities.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Fall mornings

Peak fall colors & crisp air

CrowdMedium
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Duluth from the Skyline Parkway

Skyline Parkway Duluth

Best Time

Fall mornings

Peak fall colors & crisp air

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A scenic drive offering unparalleled views of Lake Superior and Duluth, dotted with overlooks and access to outdoor activities.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Skyline Parkway is a must-drive for its breathtaking vistas of Lake Superior and Duluth!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Start West for Best Views

Begin your drive on the western side of Skyline Parkway for the most dramatic and sweeping vistas.

🍂 Chase Fall Colors

Skyline Parkway is a prime spot for fall foliage. Plan your visit in autumn for vibrant, breathtaking scenery.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Enger Tower Overlook

Enger Tower Overlook

Western end of Skyline Parkway

Panoramic views of Duluth, the harbor, and Lake Superior from a historic tower. Stunning during fall colors.

TikTok
Bardon Peak Overlook

Bardon Peak Overlook

Southwestern section of Skyline Parkway

A less-trafficked spot with stunning vistas of the city and the St. Louis River. Great for a peaceful stop.

Instagram
Spirit Mountain Alpine Coaster

Spirit Mountain Alpine Coaster

Spirit Mountain

An exhilarating alpine coaster ride with scenic views of the surrounding landscape. Fun for all ages!

TikTok+1
Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve

Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve

Eastern end of Skyline Parkway

Known for birdwatching, especially during migration seasons, and offers expansive views of Lake Superior.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Scenic Drive

Skyline Parkway offers breathtaking views of Lake Superior and Duluth. Plan for a leisurely drive, stopping at numerous overlooks. Consider starting on the western side for the best vistas. Instagram

Timing is Key for Views

While beautiful year-round, fall foliage transforms Skyline Parkway into a vibrant spectacle. Sunrise and sunset offer particularly magical light for photography. TikTokInstagram

Best Times

When
Fall mornings
Why
Peak fall colors & crisp air
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunrise/Sunset
Why
Golden hour magic
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more peace
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Checking it off my bucket list!✅ Super fun self controlled alpine coaster on spirit mountain! 🤩 #duluthmn #exploreminnesota #duluth #duluthminnesota #alpinecoaster #spiritmountain #spiritmountainduluth #mn #lakesuperior #exploremn #onlyinminnesota #minnesota
@sarrahhoff
44.9K likes • 886.4K views

🚗 Start West for Best Views

Begin your drive on the western side of Skyline Parkway for the most dramatic and sweeping vistas. Instagram

🍂 Chase Fall Colors

Skyline Parkway is a prime spot for fall foliage. Plan your visit in autumn for vibrant, breathtaking scenery. TikTokInstagram

#duluth #duluthmn #fallactivities
@notararehijabi
21.1K likes • 256.3K views
🚨 New Listing! 🚨 📍 714 W Skyline Parkway 🛁 4 bedrooms & 2 bathrooms 🏡 2 garage spaces 💰 $350,000 Nestled atop Duluth’s iconic Skyline Pkwy, this timeless two-story “square home” delivers breathtaking panoramic vistas of Lake Superior, the bay, and historic Park Point from nearly every room. Step onto the upper-level balcony to immerse yourself in ever-changing water views, or simply admire the ...
alicialokkerealtor
20 likes • 489 views

🚶‍♀️ Pedestrian-Friendly Sections

Parts of the outer loop at Enger Tower are now one-way for vehicles, with dedicated pedestrian/bike lanes. Reddit

📸 Capture the Skyline

Numerous overlooks provide excellent photo opportunities of Duluth, the harbor, and Lake Superior. Instagram

Save for later! 🍂✨ Skyline Parkway is hands down one of my favorite drives. It has such a fun mix of overlooks that provide you with sweeping views of Duluth, access to so many of Duluths parks where you can stop and hike, or just a more scenic drive to help you skip over the 35 construction. 😉 If you drive Skyline this fall, stop at Chester Park and Lester Park to hike to the different waterfa...
reece_hickman
467 likes • 6.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Start West for Best Views

Begin your drive on the western side of Skyline Parkway for the most dramatic and sweeping vistas. Instagram

🍂 Chase Fall Colors

Skyline Parkway is a prime spot for fall foliage. Plan your visit in autumn for vibrant, breathtaking scenery. TikTokInstagram

🚶‍♀️ Pedestrian-Friendly Sections

Parts of the outer loop at Enger Tower are now one-way for vehicles, with dedicated pedestrian/bike lanes. Reddit

📸 Capture the Skyline

Numerous overlooks provide excellent photo opportunities of Duluth, the harbor, and Lake Superior. Instagram

⛰️ Explore Nearby Parks

The parkway offers access to parks like Chester Park for hiking and enjoying nature. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Skyline Parkway for its stunning, panoramic views of Lake Superior and Duluth. The numerous overlooks and the vibrant fall colors are frequently highlighted as major attractions. While generally a positive experience, some mention that certain sections can be narrow or winding, requiring careful driving.

What People Like

Breathtaking Lake Superior views
Abundant scenic overlooks
Spectacular fall foliage

What People Dislike

Narrow, winding sections

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Skyline Parkway is a scenic drive that runs through Duluth, MN. You can access it from various points off I-35. For the best views, many recommend starting on the western side by taking exit 246 onto Midway Rd and heading south. Instagram

Skyline Parkway is largely a two-way road, but specific sections, like the outer loop at Enger Tower, have been converted to one-way for enhanced pedestrian and bike access. Reddit

Yes, Skyline Parkway is generally accessible in winter, but conditions can vary. Always check local road reports for closures or hazardous conditions, especially after snowfall. TikTok

A leisurely drive is recommended to fully enjoy the overlooks. You can use GPS or a map to identify specific viewpoints and attractions along the route. Instagram

While construction can occur, Skyline Parkway is often used as a scenic alternative to avoid I-35 construction. It's always a good idea to check local traffic updates before your trip. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, driving Skyline Parkway itself is free. However, some attractions along or accessible from the parkway, like the Spirit Mountain Alpine Coaster, will have their own admission fees. TikTok

Parking at most overlooks along Skyline Parkway is free. Some parks or specific attractions might have separate parking fees. Instagram

Skyline Parkway is a public road and is generally accessible 24/7. However, specific overlooks or parks along the route may have their own hours of operation. TikTok

Enger Tower itself is typically free to enter and explore, offering fantastic views. Check the official Duluth Parks and Recreation website for any updates on access or hours. TikTok

While most of Skyline Parkway is suitable for standard vehicles, some sections might be narrower or have tighter turns. It's advisable to check specific road conditions if you're traveling with a very large RV. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Enger Tower, Bardon Peak Overlook, and Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve are highly recommended for stunning photographic opportunities. The entire parkway offers numerous pull-offs with great views. TikTokInstagram+1

Sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic lighting, often referred to as the 'golden hour,' creating beautiful colors over Lake Superior and the city. TikTokInstagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant details. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures. TikTok

General photography is usually permitted. However, drone usage may be restricted in certain areas, especially near parks or residential zones. Always check local regulations before flying a drone. TikTok

Fall offers vibrant foliage, while summer provides lush greenery. Winter can offer dramatic, snow-covered landscapes, and spring brings new life. Each season provides a unique photographic experience. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Skyline Parkway offers a fantastic family-friendly experience with plenty of opportunities for exploration and fun. The numerous overlooks provide safe spaces for kids to stretch their legs and enjoy the views. Spirit Mountain is a major draw, with its alpine coaster offering an exciting adventure for older children and adults. TikTok+1 Pack snacks and drinks, as amenities can be spread out along the parkway. Consider visiting parks accessible from the route for picnic spots and playgrounds. Instagram

For a more educational experience, Enger Tower offers a chance to learn about the area's history while enjoying panoramic views. TikTok The drive itself is engaging, with changing scenery that can keep younger passengers entertained. Remember to bring cameras to capture the memorable moments and the stunning landscapes that Duluth has to offer. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Skyline Parkway is a photographer's dream, offering a diverse range of scenic subjects. The golden hours of sunrise and sunset are particularly magical, casting a warm glow over Lake Superior and the city skyline. TikTokInstagram Key locations like Enger Tower and Bardon Peak Overlook provide iconic backdrops for landscape and city photography. TikTokInstagram Don't miss Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve for dramatic shots of the lake and potential wildlife. Instagram

Consider a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive vistas and a telephoto lens for details. A tripod is highly recommended for low-light conditions and capturing the full beauty of the sky. TikTok The parkway's accessibility and numerous pull-offs make it easy to stop and set up for the perfect shot. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, as they can add dramatic flair to your photographs. Instagram

🚗 Road Trip & Scenic Drive Lovers

Skyline Parkway is the quintessential scenic drive for those who love to explore by car. It offers a continuous ribbon of breathtaking views, making it an ideal route for a leisurely road trip. Starting on the western end is often recommended for the most impactful visual journey. Instagram The parkway provides a welcome alternative to faster highways, allowing you to truly soak in the beauty of Duluth and Lake Superior. Instagram

Plan to make frequent stops at the numerous overlooks to truly appreciate the scale and beauty of the landscape. Instagram Bring your favorite playlist and enjoy the ever-changing scenery. The parkway is particularly stunning during fall foliage season, transforming into a vibrant tapestry of colors. TikTokInstagram Even if you're just passing through Duluth, dedicating a few hours to drive Skyline Parkway is a highly rewarding experience. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Allure of Skyline Parkway: A Scenic Drive Like No Other

Skyline Parkway is more than just a road; it's an experience. This scenic byway winds its way through Duluth, offering unparalleled views of the majestic Lake Superior, the bustling harbor, and the charming city below. Stretching from the western edge of Duluth all the way to Hawk Ridge and Seven Bridges Road, it provides a constantly changing panorama that captivates visitors year-round. Instagram Many travelers consider it a must-do when visiting Duluth, often recommending it as a way to skip traffic on I-35 while enjoying breathtaking scenery. Instagram

Key features of Skyline Parkway include its numerous overlooks, each offering a unique perspective. From the historic Enger Tower, which provides a 360-degree view, to the more secluded Bardon Peak Overlook, there's a vista for every mood. The parkway also serves as a gateway to outdoor recreation, with access points to parks and trails perfect for hiking and exploring. Instagram Whether you're driving, cycling, or simply stopping to admire the view, Skyline Parkway promises a memorable journey through Duluth's natural beauty. Instagram

Community insights highlight the parkway's versatility. Some sections have been modified to enhance pedestrian and bike access, making it even more enjoyable for those who prefer to explore at a slower pace. Reddit The road's beauty is particularly amplified during the fall, when the surrounding hillsides explode with color, creating a truly spectacular drive. TikTok Even on a rainy day, the dramatic skies over Lake Superior can offer a moody and captivating experience. Instagram

Experiencing Duluth's Natural Beauty: Overlooks and Activities

Skyline Parkway is dotted with numerous overlooks, each offering a distinct vantage point of Duluth and Lake Superior. Enger Tower is a standout, providing panoramic views that are especially stunning during sunrise and sunset. TikTokInstagram For a different perspective, Bardon Peak Overlook offers a serene experience with sweeping views of the St. Louis River. Instagram These overlooks are not just for admiring the scenery; they are also popular spots for photography, with many visitors capturing the iconic Duluth skyline and the vastness of the Great Lake. TikTok

Beyond the scenic drive, Skyline Parkway provides access to various activities. Spirit Mountain is a popular destination, featuring an alpine coaster that offers an exhilarating ride with scenic views. TikTok+1 Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve, located at the eastern end of the parkway, is a renowned spot for birdwatching, particularly during migration seasons, and offers expansive views of Lake Superior. Instagram The parkway's proximity to parks like Chester Park also invites visitors to stop for hikes and further exploration of the natural surroundings. Instagram

Travelers often emphasize the importance of taking your time on Skyline Parkway. It’s not a route to be rushed, but rather savored. Stopping at multiple overlooks allows for a deeper appreciation of Duluth's unique geography and the grandeur of Lake Superior. Instagram The changing seasons also bring different kinds of beauty, from the vibrant fall colors to the stark, snow-covered landscapes of winter, making it a destination worth visiting multiple times. TikTokInstagram

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