Split Rock Lighthouse: A Beautiful Stop on Minnesota’s North Shore

A November gale that wrecked nearly 30 ships in 1905 helped lead to the construction of one of Minnesota’s most recognizable landmarks. When the U.S. Lighthouse Service completed Split Rock Light Station in 1910, it quickly became an important part of the North Shore.

Today, Split Rock Lighthouse is one of the most photographed places along Minnesota’s Lake Superior shoreline.

We were traveling the North Shore and decided not to stop for a tour of the lighthouse and visitor center. Instead, we were looking for something a little different — the beautiful view of the lighthouse from across the water that we had seen in so many photographs.

And honestly, it was worth the stop.

We almost had the entire place to ourselves. There was only one other family on the beach, which made the experience even better. It was quiet, peaceful, and a great place to simply take in the scenery.

The rocky shoreline and Lake Superior made a beautiful backdrop, and the lighthouse sitting high on the rocky cliffs across the cove was exactly the view we had come looking for.

One of the surprises for us was finding a section of black sand along the cove. We knew there was a well-known black beach farther up the North Shore, but we hadn't read anything about finding black sand here at Split Rock. It was an unexpected little discovery.

Between the lake, the rocky shoreline, the cliffs, and the lighthouse in the distance, this was one of those stops where I could have stayed much longer just taking pictures.

If you're traveling the North Shore of Minnesota, Split Rock Lighthouse is definitely worth putting on your list — even if, like us, you aren't planning to tour the lighthouse itself. There are beautiful views all around the area, and sometimes the best view is the one you find just a little farther away.

Getting There

Split Rock Lighthouse
3713 Split Rock Lighthouse Road
Two Harbors, MN 55616

Phone: 218-226-6372

The lighthouse and visitor center have seasonal hours, but the beach and surrounding outdoor areas can be accessed outside of the tour hours. Check current park information before your visit if you are planning to tour the lighthouse.