Fall in Cook County

Fall: Millions of Colorful Reasons to Visit This Fall

Cook County is the premier destination to view fall colors in Minnesota. Starting in early September, the air turns crisp and clear. Shortly after, the leaves begin to change, color painting the Superior National Forest with a palette of goldenrod, pumpkin orange and firetruck red. For a romantic getaway, escape during the midweek to avoid the fall color crowd – you’ll have the trails to yourselves.

In late fall, a different kind of show begins: the infamous gales of November. This is a chance to get cozy and watch Lake Superior unleash her wild side.

Immerse yourself in fall colors

There are few things more spectacular than being in Cook County during peak fall colors. From fall color driving routes, to hiking to the summit of a epic overlook, to discovering unique artists studios - autumn is a delight to the senses. Book your trip now so you don't miss out.

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Insider tip: Fall colors can begin as early as August with the peak typically occurring the last weekend of September and first weekend in October. However, there are pockets of brilliant fall colors that span from late August and continue until the end of October, right as we enter Storm Season. Check out our Fall Colors Update page for more info.

Your North Shore Fall Bucket List

Brace yourself for a fall of epic experiences and vibrant colors. With ample hiking trails, gorgeous backroads, and cozy-lakeside cabins - adventures abound this fall.

Download the Fall Adventure Bucket List Guide

1) Embrace your inner leaf-peeper

Marvel at all of the color that nature offers from the comfort of your car by taking a scenic fall color drive. View the fall colors drive maps.

2) Paddle the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW)

Fall days are often sunny, mild and bug-free, with cool, clear nights perfect for hot chocolate around the campfire. Bonus, fall is the hidden gem timeframe to visit the BWCAW. You'll find less campers, abundant fish, and lakes all to yourself. Sounds pretty great, right? Plan that long awaited BWCAW trip today.

3) Find your true colors and get inspired!

Shop our local galleries and find artisan crafted gems. Plan your trip around the 10-day Art Along The Lake Studio Tour and discover local artists and explore their studios. Feeling inspired? Take a class at North House Folk School or the Grand Marais Art Colony.

4) Go on a "moosefari"

Is seeing a moose on your bucket list? Fall is a great time to catch a glimpse of the four-legged marvels. For your best chance of seeing one of the elusive moose, drive the Gunflint Trail National Scenic Byway early in the morning or around dusk. Even if you don’t spy a moose, you’ll see spectacular scenery. Learn more about moose in Cook County.

5) Go for a hike.

Immerse yourself in a 360-degree fall color experience by hiking right through it all. With over 400-miles of hiking trails to discover, you'll find endless gorgeous views that will take your breath away. Check out our list of 30-Minute Quick Climbs for a few highlights.

Looking for a view but with less steps? Check out the Summit Express Gondola at Lutsen Mountains for 100-mile views of Lake Superior.

6) Catch the fall bird migration

The boreal forest is at the heart of the migratory path for numerous bird species. From the peak of a mountain, witness a hawk migration or stay up late and listen for the hoot of an owl. Learn more about the birds in Cook County.

7) Golf in full color

Open into October, you can get in a few more rounds and view spectacular fall colors by hitting the links at Superior National Golf Course. Learn more about golfing in Cook County.

8) Look for Northern Lights

Set your eyes to the skies in the evenings. You will see more stars than ever before and, if you are lucky, a glimpse of nature’s light show – aurora borealis. Learn more about the Northern Lights in Cook County.

9) Experience the late fall storm season

Starting in late-October, low-pressure systems from the Arctic swing down over Lake Superior and bump into warmer systems fed by the jet stream. These collisions can spawn ferocious gales. If you get a thrill from waves and wind, Cook County has plenty of snug harbors for storm-watching.

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Don’t just visit Cook County. Experience it like a pro with the hottest deals in the state. We’ve worked with our local vendors, artisans and owners to curate the best prices and most unique packages for our out-of-town visitors. Check out our hot deals today.

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