There’s something about Northern Minnesota in October that feels timeless - the mix of crisp air and fiery fall colors. On my October 2025 photography trip, I set out along the North Shore, exploring the stretch from Duluth to Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, with a few spontaneous stops in between.
A FOGGY START AT CANAL PARK
The morning began in Duluth, where the harbor was completely blanketed in fog - the moody light that photographers dream of, even if it hides the nearby scenery. The mist rolling off the water created beautiful depth and mystery, especially near the Aerial Lift Bridge and along Canal Park. Each shot felt cinematic, and the subtle reflections off the calm water made for a fun start to the day.
WAYSIDE VIEWS THAT ARE WORTH THE STOP
The Silver Cliff Wayside is one of those blink-and-you’ll-miss-it locations. Heading North, you'll find this stop on the right side after driving through the tunnel. With a trail perched above the lake, it gives you sweeping views of the shoreline below. With the fog clear up here, the timing couldn’t have been better.
Here, I focused on wide landscapes and leading lines, using the cliffs and autumn trees to guide the viewer’s eye along the shoreline.
There are a number of state waysides along Highway 61, and they're always worth the view. It's a great way to break up the road trip!
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SPLIT ROCK LIGHTHOUSE STATE PARK
By late morning, the fog had lifted, revealing clear skies and calm waters. While many photographers aim for sunrise or sunset here, mid-day along the North Shore of Lake Superior can still deliver stunning results when the light reflects off the cliffs and deep blue water.
Photographer tip: bring a CPL filter to cut through some of the harsher reflections along the water.
Split Rock Lighthouse State Park is a must-visit location along the North Shore. Whether you’re capturing photos or just taking in the view on a hike, the combination of history, landscape, and color makes it one of the most rewarding stops between Duluth and Silver Bay.