Putt n Pets is the whole package when you’re looking for unique things to do in Grand Marais Minnesota, especially if you’re in search of something inexpensive that will fit a wide age range. A unique outdoor atmosphere with goats (that you can feed!), and 18 holes of purely fun mini-golf challenges, all on Lake Superior? You had me at goats!

Where is Putt n Pets Mini Golf

Putt n Pets Mini Golf is on Minnesota Highway 61 just before you get into the heart of Grand Marais– you can’t miss it! You’ll see the iconic sign and prospecting tower as you drive up, just like in the photo above.

Putt n Pets Mini Golf Address

2014 MN-61, Grand Marais, MN 55604

Putt n Pets Mini Golf Hours

Monday – Friday: 10 AM to 8 PM

Saturday: 10 AM to 10 PM

Sunday: 10 AM to 6 PM

Mini Golf Season lasts from May to October

Experiencing Putt n Pets Mini Golf in Grand Marais

During a girls’ trip to Grand Marais, driving up the gorgeous scenic Highway 61 and taking a pit stop at Betty’s Pies, we came across this hidden gem of goats and Mini Golf.

When we were thinking of things to do in Grand Marais Minnesota, Putt n Pets definitely stood out for several reasons. The combination of a fun and inclusive activity like mini golf plus the unique atmosphere of a beautiful 18-hole course, fun decor, goats, turkeys, and peacocks? It was like finding Northwoods treasure!

Upon entering Putt n Pets Mini Golf, you’ll see that it is a self-service paying station where you’ll get your trusty clubs, golf balls, and snacks if the front desk is open. Don’t forget to bring some quarters for feed if you’d like the neat experience of feeding the animals; I’d highly recommend it for a true Putt n Pets experience.

Another fun bit about the entrance is the wooden map of the United States which has pins in place of where visitors have come from. How neat is that? During our experience there we ran into a kind Canadian family who was also incredibly excited at the opportunity to feed the adorable goats. You just never know the kind of stories you’ll gain from taking a chance on a quirky experience like this!

Along with its well-maintained holes and smile-worthy decor (can you spot the Statue of Liberty in the photo below?), the atmosphere of Putt n Pets Mini Golf is truly a Northwoods experience. You’re surrounded by critters, good company, and greenery, and you’re not far from Lake Superior at all, it doesn’t get much more Up North quintessential than that!

Another thing I love about Putt n Pets Mini Golf, aside from it being probably one of the most amusing experiences of mini golf in Minnesota, is that the activity of mini golf is fairly inexpensive and can be enjoyed no matter what age you are.

Adults, teenagers, and children can all find something to enjoy at Putt n Pets; why even the very little ones who can’t hold up their clubs yet. Because if you aren’t into the mini golf of it all, there’s always the entertainment of watching and feeding the animals!

Plus, right next to the parking lot, there are a few coin-operated rides for kiddos to look forward to and enjoy as well as a silly photo opp to commemorate your Putt n Pets Mini Golf experience!

Interesting Facts About Nigerian Dwarf Goats

Who doesn’t love to see goats soaking up the sun, munching on treats, and people-watching? The lovely goats that call Putt n Pets Mini Golf home sure are a key element to this unique establishment, along with the other critters of chickens, turkeys, and peacocks!

But did you know there’s more to these Nigerian Dwarf Goats than meets the eye? Check out these interesting facts about these fantastic little creatures as brought to you by Putt n Pets themselves!

Did you know that Nigerian Dwarf Goats…

• Originally come from West Africa
• They come in all sorts of colors and patterns
• Can breed year-round up to four kids
• They are very hardy and make great mothers (Awww!)
• Just like cows and horses, their pupils are rectangular
• Both males and females have horns
• Each goat has a warm cashmere undercoat for the winter months

The Buzz About Putt n Pets Mini Golf

From locals to travelers it’s always nice to hear a new perspective on a potential place you’d like to visit! I know I’m guilty of checking out the reviews for a restaurant, hotel, or even books before I check them out. It’s reassuring to know you’re heading into something good before you pour your precious time and energy into it. With that being said, let’s hear the buzz about Putt n Pets Mini Golf in Minnesota!

“This place is the bomb ! Not only are the courses well and beautifully designed, there are goats, chickens,turkeys,pheasants and a peacock.

You can buy a handful of treats for them for a quarter, and there’s a tower with a ramp to it that the goats can climb. Then you put treats in a bucket at the bottom and they pull it up to the tower with a rope!

Also little hidden treasures sprinkled in the flora and whimsical references to the local landmarks.

You can’t NOT go !“

– William B

“Whatever you do, do not miss this place on your north shore trip!

The animals are wonderful and it makes for a truly unique mini golf experience for all ages (my husband and I have no kids and loved it).

They have beverages and ice cream for purchase and a few ways to win a free ice cream!“

– Kelly N

“Quaint course with plenty of obstacles to make the holes fun for both kids and adults!

We paid a quarter to give some feed to the turkeys and they loved it. There is also a “goatel” (goat hotel) with some adorable goats that you can feed!

Each hole has a wood block with an animal track or leaf that you can try to identify, with the key on your score card.

Overall, a fun and laid-back atmosphere, great for a quick afternoon activity while you’re up north.“

– Aidan F

“Had a great time here with my 1 and 3 year olds! No charge for kids that young, so I paid for just myself and we were there for about an hour.

My 3 year old enjoyed his first mini golf experience but the highlight was the scenery/props and animals! Both my kids loved the goats and feeding them was a huge highlight for all of us.

Lots of interesting items to keep everyone interested throughout the course, and of course we had to finish with ice cream cones.

My 3 year old is already asking to go back!“

– Louise R

When you’re searching for things to do in Grand Marais Minnesota I hope you put Putt n Pets Mini Golf on the itinerary; you’ll be in for a hoot of a time and a fun new set of memories to look back on. Of course, you don’t want to miss being on the water when you’re in the picturesque Grand Marais, and there are plenty of restaurants, shops, and scenery to walk around and enjoy while you’re there.

There is an abundance of great fun and even better sights to soak in when you’re on Lake Superior. Every person deserves to have a beautiful collection of memories centered around this Great Lake and its darling communities.

From all of us here On Lake Superior, we strive to deliver on bringing the spotlight to small businesses, artists, and more to make the Lake Superior experience even grander and intentional for travelers and adventurers like you. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your Lake Superior adventure today by checking out the tons of recommendations and places there are to experience right here On Lake Superior!

Be sure to follow us on Facebook for more travel inspiration and to spread the love of the one-of-a-kind feeling of being on Lake Superior.

Even on a late Friday morning in the off-season, this iconic establishment was hustling and bustling, and after we took our first bites of our food and chosen pie slices, it’s not hard to see why so many travel far and wide to get in on this experience. And if the pie options and classic atmosphere weren’t enough, you can look out the window and raise your fork full of goodness up to Lake Superior; the view is fantastic!

On a girl’s trip up to Grand Marais our little troop of gals stopped by Betty’s Pies for a bite to eat before the big trek up Scenic Highway 61. Although the wait was unexpected (worth it!), the fantastic flavors of food and pie lived up to their Northwoods hype.

We were seated in what the hostess referred to as ‘the best seats in the house‘; the back part of the restaurant which is a separate room overlooking Lake Superior. There was a pleasant lake house vibe that wrapped us up in the warm natural light of the room while we sipped on our coffee and visited as our orders were being whipped up. Betty’s Pies has a wonderful classic diner atmosphere with friendly service and that Northwoods charm we know and love.

If you’ve been wanting to have a Dawdling Adventure Up North in this area but weren’t sure where to eat in Two Harbors or Two Harbors MN attractions, this is a fabulous place to start your on Lake Superior journey!

Where is Betty’s Pies

Betty’s Pies is a scrumptious joint you can’t miss when cruising along Scenic Highway 61! Whether you’re traveling from afar into Two Harbors or you’re a local with a pie hankering, it’s a beautiful drive on Lake Superior to get to this Up North staple.

Craving some more places to eat in Two Harbors? Check out our visit to Madeira Bistro in downtown Two Harbors!

Betty’s Pies Address

2019, 1633 MN-61, Two Harbors, MN 55616

Betty’s Pies Hours

Monday – Friday: 9 AM – 5 PM

Saturday: 9 AM – 8 PM

Sunday: 9 AM – 5 PM

A Slice of Betty’s Pies History

Would you believe that Betty’s Pies was actually a Fish Shack at first? The humble beginnings of this Up North tradition began in the year 1957 with the vision, created by Betty’s Father Aleck, of providing a quaint place to grab a bite to eat for fishermen and women near the Stewart River.

Working with her Father, Betty put her magical cuisine in the bellies of anglers, and soon what started as a simple Fish Shack pit spot for donuts and coffee grew into a larger menu of food and delicious pies. By 1958 the shack was transformed into Betty’s Cafe and would one day blossom into the iconic Betty’s Pies we know and love.

It’s beautiful to see how far one family’s dream and vision can go and the evolutions it takes on the way. For now, since Betty and her Father Aleck took a chance on their Fish Shack idea, so many of us folks who love being on Lake Superior can make memories with full stomachs at Betty’s Pies.

If this story touched you (It sure hit me in the feels!) consider following Betty’s Pies on Facebook to be in the loop about this fantastic establishment and all of their history, updates, and more!

What’s on the Menu at Betty’s Pies

Aside from pies, this Two Harbors establishment serves up all sorts of diner classics that’ll have you and your stomach satisfied. Below is a general list of items that are served up at Betty’s, for a more detailed list of menu items, specials, and prices please visit their website.

Breakfast

• Classic Eggs
• Variety of Skillets
• Omelets
• Pancake & French Toast Platters
• Scrumptious Toast Varieties

Lunch

• Lots of Burger Platters (Including a vegetarian option!)
• A large array of Sandwiches
• Specialties (Including Roast Beef specials, Chicken specials, and more)
• Refreshing Salad options

Pies

• Baked Double Crust Pies
  • Strawberry Rhubarb
  • Bumbleberry (Strawberry, Blueberry, Raspberry, Blackberry)
  • Old Fashioned Apple
  • Blueberry
  • Pecan
  • Pumpkin
• Baked Crunch Topping
  • Raspberry Rhubarb
  • Great Lakes (Rhubarb, Apple, Strawberry, Blueberry, Raspberry)
  • Caramel Apple
  • Blackberry Peach
• Cream Pies
  • Coconut Cream
  • Cheese Cake
  • Turtle Coconut Cream
  • Butterfinger Cream
  • Key Lime
  • Five-Layer Chocolate
  • French Blueberry
  • Chocolate banana
  • Banana Cream
  • Peanut Butter Cup
  • French Silk
  • Toffee Cream
  • Five-layer Butterscotch
• Gluten-free options for Pie are available upon asking!

Are you craving some pie pronto but your pie proximity is coming up short? Never fear! Through Gold Belly Betty’s Pies ships Nationwide! You can get your favorite pie shipped right to you for a special occasion or just for sweet tooth kicks. The future is now, and the flavor is [insert your favorite pie flavor here]!

The Buzz About Betty’s Pies

We love to hear from locals and travelers what they think of gems along beautiful Lake Superior, so let’s hear it right from the source!

“Picturesque little Cafe; we enjoyed our time there! The staff were friendly and attentive. All of the food was fresh and delicious. The pie was definitely worth it! We had the caramel crunch pie – absolutely superb!”

– Ashly S

“Saw a sign making our way up the scenic highway and decided to give it a try. Glad we did! The place was crowded and the line was on the longer side, but it went pretty fast. The selection of pies was was amazing, coffee was flavorful, and the service was friendly and quick. We sat outside on a beautiful late summer day and enjoyed our pie. Food always tastes better when it’s a place you just stumble upon.”

– Mike

“Plenty of pie and non-pie options if you’re just wanting food. There are also shakes and drinks.

The host/servers are helpful in selecting options. I’d recommend going with traditional flavors/their recommendations.

We got a turtle coconut cream, great lakes, toffee cream, and five layer chocolate.

We liked all of them except for the toffee cream, it was too creamy. The best though is the great lakes, tasted a lot of flavors in that pie. Not too sweet and crunchy.

Highly recommend stopping by.”

– Azzam A

“We have driven by plenty of time’s before, but the wait is over. Finally we got to try a World Famous slice of PIE! My wife had French Slik and I had Toffee whipped. They both were really good, but they have a ton more you can try also. Had breakfast also, Sara had an Omelet with hash brown’s and tried the French toast witch was amazing . You can get any meal for the day, so just not breakfast, lunch & dinner I believe . Don’t pass them up! We enjoyed it”

– Michael W

From all of us pie lovers here at On Lake Superior, we hope you enjoyed this delicious trip down sweet tooth lane as we learned more about this iconic staple of Two Harbors and Up North goodness. From the history of its origin story to the delectable treats that are offered, there’s so much to love about Betty’s Pies you’ll have to go and make some memories yourself!

Are you interested in keeping up-to-date on all things Betty’s Pies? Follow Betty’s Pies on Facebook to show your support, and while you’re there, consider following On Lake Superior to be a part of our growing community full of people who find Lake Superior to be their happy place.

Ever since the glaciers retreated, people have been traveling along the northwest shore of Lake Superior. Today, some travelers still paddle or boat the shore, but most drive by taking Minnesota State Highway 61. The highway officially runs 150.321 miles from a junction with I-35 and 26^th Avenue East in Duluth to its northern terminus at the Pigeon River Bridge over the international border between the United States and Canada.

Early Routes

From the 1600s through the mid-1800s, Indigenous, French, British, and American peoples paddled the northwest shore of Superior in the fur trade. In 1854, Anishinaabe people ceded the area to the United States.

By 1855, the fur trade in the Lake Superior region was beginning to decline, and the Soo Locks opened. For the first time, Lake Superior was opened to shipping travel with other Great Lakes. Since the mid-1600s, Lake Superior had been connected to economies around the globe through the fur trade, but the opening of the Soo Locks expanded these international connections since boats larger than canoes could now easily enter the watershed.

After the locks opened, steamboats arrived at local ports, and logging and mining industries grew. In the western part of the lake, Duluth became a significant port and a base for visitors to charter local boats to take them up the shore to camps where they hunted, fished, and explored what they considered to be “wilderness.” In reality, it was (and continues to be) the homelands of Anishinaabe peoples who had stewarded the land for generations.

When the lake was frozen or inhospitable to travel by water, the only other route was a footpath that generally followed the coast. Gradually, throughout the 19th century, this footpath grew into a sled dog road and then a wagon road. Eventually, this road became Minnesota Highway 61.

John Beargrease, an Anishinaabe man, was born near Beaver Bay and moved to Chippewa City (which was a community of mainly citizens of Grand Portage Anishinaabe several miles northwest of Grand Marais). Beargrease was influential in the road’s development and the modern-day namesake of the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon.

Beginning in 1879, Beargrease was the mail carrier for the Minnesota North Shore. With his sons, they brought over 700 pounds of mail and packages each trip from Superior, WI, to Grand Marais, MN. In the summer, they hiked along the shore, sailed, or rowed a boat. In the winter, they made the trek by dog sled. Along with the mail, Beargrease was also a vital source of news and weather to communities.

John Beargrease made his last mail runs in 1899 when Lake Shore Road was completed between Two Harbors and Grand Marais. From this point on, the mail arrived by stagecoach.

Building a Highway, Connecting Communities

By the 1910s, North Shore visitors began to take their newly acquired automobiles on the road. In 1921, construction began to upgrade the road and extend it from Duluth to the Pigeon River.  By the 1940s, the road had transitioned from dirt and gravel to pavement. The road contributed to the growing population and expansion of industries, including tourism, along the Minnesota North Shore.

The northernmost section, from Hovland to the Pigeon River, originally ran inland, bypassing the Grand Portage Anishinaabe Nation. Remnants of the original border crossing, known as the Outlaw Bridge, are still evident on both sides of the border.

Further modifications were made in the 1960s. In 1963, the road between Duluth and the Canadian border was commissioned as part of U.S. Highway 61 (whose southern terminus is in New Orleans). A four-lane express was also built inland of the original route that stretches for twenty-one miles between Duluth and Two Harbors. The original route remains open, allowing travelers to take the scenic route or the expressway. To this day, the remainder of the highway is a two-lane road with intermittent passing lanes.

After Interstate 35 was completed in the 1960s, U.S. Highway 61 was co-signed with I-35. In 1991, the federal highway was decommissioned from the Canadian border to its present-day junction with I-35 near Forest Lake, Minnesota. The section of US 61 north of Duluth was then redesignated as Minnesota State Highway 61.

Building a Highway, Bypassing a Cliff

Until 1994, motorists traveled directly along the edge of Silver Creek Cliff northeast of Two Harbors. Boulders and wooden guardrails were the only separation between the vehicles and a long fall into the lake. Frequent precipitation, seasonal freeze-thaw cycles, and wave erosion were constant issues for the highway in this section.

In the 1990s, The Minnesota Department of Transportation decided to address these challenges by creating a tunnel through Silver Creek Cliff that would bypass the cliff. They used modern tunnel-building techniques that had been used to build the nearby Lafayette Tunnel in 1991.

On July 29, 1994, the Silver Creek Tunnel opened with a celebration, including live music. A stream of classic cars was the first vehicle through the tunnel.

Highway 61 has been part of road trips my whole life. As a child, I remember heading south to Duluth or Minneapolis from Thunder Bay and waiting in our minivan in a line of vehicles surrounded by orange cones as Mn/DOT workers built the new tunnel.

Interestingly, I remember the construction wait times more than I remember the views from the original route! I do remember the excitement of getting to drive through the tunnel for the very first time. From that point on, going through the tunnel was always a highlight of the road trip.

Building a Highway, Creating Isolation

Throughout the Lake Superior watershed, the construction of highways has impacted the growth and decline of communities.

Built environments, a form of material culture that includes highways and other infrastructure, shape the character and health of communities. Highways are connectors, but they can also lead to isolation. Throughout the watershed, communities whose downtowns are off of the main highways that make up the Lake Superior Circle Tour–like Ontonagon and L’Anse in Michigan and Wawa and Red Rock in Ontario, need to be creative to divert tourism dollars into their downtowns.

But more than economic impacts, the development of highways also impacts families and communities on a personal level. Staci Lola Drouillard, a descendant of Grand Portage Anishinaabe Nation and families from Chippewa City explains:

“Between 1920 and 1920, the trail once used by [John] Beargrease had become an expansive, scenic highway connecting Duluth to the Canadian border. What began as a narrow path through the woods then became a trail for dogsleds and horses. For years after that, the thoroughfare was only able to accommodate horse-driven coaches.

By the 1920s, Model Ts were able to make the trip, and soon after that, what was then a craggy, gravel road became a two-lane paved artery suitable for all manner of cars trucks, and buses. The construction of this road, Highway 61, effectively cut Chippewa City and east Grand Marais in two, separating the church from the cemetery and forcing the destruction of many of the community’s homes and community gathering places.” (Walking the Old Road, 257-8)

Being able to understand how these impacts continue to effect communities is one of the reasons to learn the history of highways and other forms of infrastructure.

Minnesota Highway 61 Today

Visitors who want to appreciate Silver Creek Tunnel to admire the workmanship or imagine what it was like to drive along the edge of Silver Creek cliff can stop at the wayside on the north end of tunnel. After parking, take a short walk southwest along the paved Gichigami Trail (which is also open to bicycles).

Within about a quarter of a mile, you will reach the lookout, which features expansive views and educational signs. The boulders and guardrails between the trail and lake are similar to what protected motorists from the cliffs edge before the tunnel was built.

Much like in the early 1900s, the highway continues to play an important role in the economic industries of the region, including tourism and mining.  Shifting the highway through a tunnel has also created a draw for rock climbers, offering them another spot along the Minnesota North Shore to hone their skills. Today, there are numerous state parks featuring stunning waterfalls (like High Falls), state natural areas (including Sugarloaf Cove), and scenic wayside rest areas along Minnesota Highway 61. They all offer beautiful scenery and opportunities to delve more into the region’s geologic, environmental, and sociocultural histories.

Today, travelers will also see evidence of the role of mining in the past and present, including the Northshore Mining Company (owned by Cleveland Cliffs) in Silver Bay and the coal-powered plant in Taconite Harbor that was officially retired in March 2023. Visitors can learn more about Taconite Harbor at the Cross River Heritage Center in Schroeder, Minnesota.

These juxtaposing images of natural scenery and extractive industries along Highway 61 reflect the multifaceted forces that have shaped the history of the Minnesota North Shore and the whole Lake Superior region since the signing of land cession treaties in the mid-nineteenth century.

References

Signs and historic markers along MN Highway 61 were influential in this post.

To learn more about Chippewa City or John Beargrease, I suggest Staci Lola Drouillard, Walking the Old Road: A People’s History of Chippewa City and the Grand Marais Anishinaabe, (Minneapolis: University of Minnesota Press, 2019).

Sugarloaf Cove is named after the iconic rock formation on the rock point. The point and shoreline is a 10.3 acre State Natural Area. In 1992, the Sugarloaf was found to protect the area. In 1998, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources transferred the 24 acres around the SNA to the organization. In 2005, the organization renamed itself as Sugarloaf: The Northshore Stewards Association.  

Today, thanks to the hard work of Sugarloaf: The Northshore Stewards Association, Sugarloaf Cove is protected and accessible to the public. Sugarloaf Cove has a gravel parking lot, an Interpretative Center, short hiking trails, and a lovely section of shoreline, including the iconic Sugarloaf rock formation.

Regardless of how you spend your time at Sugarloaf Cove, you have plenty of opportunities to take in the rich history—learning how the landscape has changed over time and appreciating its beauty in the present.

Sugarloaf Cove’s History

Sugarloaf Cove is the only significant natural harbor between Two Harbors and Grand Marais along the Minnesota North Shore.

Like other parts of the Lake Superior watershed, Indigenous peoples lived on the Minnesota North Shore for thousands of years. By the mid-seventeenth century, French fur traders and missionaries arrived in the Lake Superior region. By that time, Anishinaabe peoples (especially the groups that became known as Ojibwe people) were the demographic majority in the region. For approximately two centuries, Anishinaabe peoples formed relationships with French, British, and (eventually) American fur traders.

By the mid-nineteenth century, settlers on both sides of the border in the northern Great Lakes became interested in resources on Anishinaabe land, leading to the negotiations of land cession treaties. In 1854, at La Pointe on Madeline Island (Wisconsin), Anishinaabe peoples and American officials negotiated a treaty that ceded the iron-rich Minnesota North shore to the United States. The treaty was negotiated in the wake of the Sandy Lake Tragedy in 1850, which was an attempt by Americans to remove Anishinaabe people west of the Lake Superior watershed, which ultimately failed but led to a devastating loss of life.

The Treaty of La Pointe in 1854 legally opened the ceded territory to white settlement. Like other areas of the Minnesota North Shore, Sugarloaf Cove was now open to mining and logging.

In 1899, John Gunderson’s Norwegian family homesteaded at Sugarloaf Cove. John’s son owned the property from 1919 to 1939. The property had several owners from 1940 to 1943 until Consolidated Papers purchased the land around Sugarloaf Cove.

From 1943 to 1971, Consolidated Papers, Inc. used Sugarloaf Cove to store pulpwood logs during the winter. During the spring and summer, tugboats rafted the logs across Lake Superior to the papermills in Ashland, Wisconsin.

Consolidated Papers, Inc. maintained at least 14 buildings at Sugarloaf Cove, including two homes, an office with living quarters for two foresters and a clerk, and support facilities for loggers and rafters. Five underground fuel tanks, four wells, and a large maintenance garage also existed.

The State of Minnesota acquired Sugarloaf Cove in 1988, and it became a Scientific Natural Area in 1992. It expanded in 1996.

Seeing History Today: Through the Woods

Today, visitors can see many aspects of the logging history along the trails and shoreline at Sugarloaf Cove. The main trail is a loop that starts at the parking lot.

Hiking the trail in a clockwise direction leads you through a Norway Pine plantation planted in the decade following the closure of Consolidated Papers in 1971.

Shortly down the trail, you see old logs off to the side. These were part of the chute that carried pulpwood from the Upper Landing to the lake: the logs formed the sides of the chute, and thick metal cables were attached to notches in the logs to keep them in place. These logs have been lying in their place since Consolidate Paper closed, and they are slowly decaying and becoming part of the soil. When the log chute was in use, the area at the Upper Landing where the trail goes would have been cleared and opened—not like the forested terrain today.

Seeing History Today: Along the Lake

After walking through an alder thicket, you come to a view of the lake and can head down a spur trail to the ancient bedrock along the lake. The bedrock is basalt, a type of rock created by lava flows when the Midcontinental Rift was pulling apart 1.1 billion years ago. Six different lava flows are visible along certain points of the shore.

From the lookout, you can see Sugarloaf Cove. You can also see rings that were used to secure log booms. Log booms are barriers that hold together rafts of logs. Booms were used to hold together rafts of logs, and the booms were anchored to the rings on the rocky shores. Sugarloaf Cove was desirable because it is the only significant natural harbor that created a protected area to store the log rafts.

Rafts could be as large as 40 acres. When the booms were filled, the raft was tugged to sawmills  62 miles across the lake in Ashland, Wisconsin. The trips usually took between 72 and 120 hours. Typically, 6-8 trips were made to Ashland each summer.

A bit further down the trail is where the log chute dropped logs from the Upper Landing into the lake. The chute was 80 feet long and about 10 feet wide. There is little evidence of the chute in the present. The rings are the main reminder of the cove’s main purpose in the mid-20th century.

Before you reach cobble beach of the cove, the trail goes by a root cellar. It is the only Consolidated Paper building to survive in the present at Sugarloaf Cove. Consolidated Paper constructed at least fourteen buildings to support its pulpwood rafting operation when it was operating. A garage, office, and warehouse were at the base of this hill, along with the root cellar. While the cellar currently stores tools, its contents were used to cook many meals in the past.

The Cove and Sugarloaf Point

After the cellar, the trail follows a cobble beach. The multicolored cobbles and pebbles are evidence of billions of years of geologic activity. The basalt and rhyolite formed by the Midcontinental Rift are mixed with older rock carried by ice sheets from the northeast and Canada, including 2.7 billion-year-old granite and gneiss.

Sugarloaf Point was originally an island gradually connected to land as wind and waves deposited rocks. The land that connects the point to the shore is known as a tombolo.

The name Sugarloaf Cove comes from the high knob of rock near the tip of the point. In the late nineteenth century, the high knob of rock at the end of the point reminded settlers of the blocks of refined sugar that were molded into the shape of a cone and called sugar loaves.

Like the rocky shore on the mainland of the cove, there are numerous rings from the logging era on Sugarloaf Point. As you stand on the point on a wavy day with waves breaking around the tip and creating a swirl of currents, you can imagine the force the rings endured.

On windy days, the massive rafts of logs would constantly heave and shift in the waves and swells, pulling on the chains that anchored the boom logs to the rings.

I’ve visited the Minnesota North Shore when waves ten to fifteen feet tall crash into the rocky shore, shooting spray up much higher. It certainly wouldn’t be safe to be out on Sugarloaf Point on a day like that! Given everything the rings have been through, its remarkable they are still here.

From the tombolo, the trail continues southwest along the shore until it reaches Sugarloaf Creek. Then, it follows the creek, heading inland toward the Visitor’s Center.

The Tip of the Iceberg

This is just the tip of the iceberg of what you can see at Sugarloaf Cove! There are unique geologic features, including pahoehoe. This ropey formation shows how magma moved as the crust cooled.

Along with the unique geology at Sugarloaf Cove, there are rare lichens and plants, like the liverwort Atlantic Pawwort and Yellow Dot Lichen which are known as Arctic disjuncts since they are usually found in Arctic environments.

The Interpretative Center also offers numerous opportunities for visitors to learn more about Sugarloaf Cove’s geologic, natural, and human history! In the summer, it is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (make sure to check the website for updated hours). It has numerous mini-exhibits, including maps and historic photos, along with mini-exhibits about Consolidated Paper, geology, and animals in the forest. It also has a lovely covered deck and an inside restroom. A naturalist can also answer questions when the Interpretative Center is open.

There is a $5 fee to access Sugarloaf Cove. Or, you can purchase a reasonably priced annual membership!

If you visit Sugarloaf Cove on your trip along the Minnesota North Shore, you won’t regret it!

Sugarloaf Cove Location

9096 MN-61, Schroeder, MN 55613

This delightfully quirky and artistic collection of tales is wrapped in stunningly original artwork, words, and themes that will leave your mind wandering and pondering long after you’ve put the paperback down. What more could you ask for from a book produced from a wholesome friendship between two talented artists, Natalie Salminen Rude, and Jordan Sundberg, and the owner of Fika Coffee, Josh? It’s hard to imagine that things can get any more whimsical than that, but wait until you hear about the Fables of the North Shore!

“Fables of the North Shore is a multidisciplinary and collaborative storytelling project inspired by the North Shore region of Lake Superior.

We drew spark from folktales, fables and our own kooky daydreams – all in hopes this would bring our community together around the campfire of local, shared stories, exaggerated tales and a plethora of artistic mediums.

The fables and visual illustrations before you are woven with nostalgic, beloved, silly, wise and favorite Lake Superior North Shore elements and characters.
You’ll see patterns, criss-crossed connections and characters formed. May you smile! Relate! Chuckle! Be inspired!

And may you learn you should always have a canoe paddle on hand! We hope these stories and their art bring life and light and maybe a reflection or two.“

– Synopsis of Fables of the North Shore
by Natalie Salminen Rude & Jordan Sundberg

Who Wrote Fables of the North Shore?

Fables of the North Shore was brought to life by two incredibly talented artists, Natalie Saimien Rude and Jordan Sundberg, who love creating memories on Lake Superior and writing quirky stories that become books about fables.

I had the wonderful opportunity to correspond with both artists and have a lovely chat about their artist journies and the fabulous, collaborative experience of creating Fables of the North Shore. To say I felt privileged to connect with two talented individuals and take a peek inside their creative process is an understatement. Especially coming from a bookworm like myself, I was super duper excited, even more so after finishing Fables of the North Shore and writing a book review!

With that being said, let’s hear straight from the artists themselves about their thoughts and feelings when crafting in tandem to bring Fables of the North Shore to life and become a classic on Lake Superior book about fables. Fair warning: you’re most definitely going to want to buy a copy of Fables of the North Shore after reading their responses to these questions. They’re so full of life, passion, and FUN; you can’t help but feel giddy right along with them!

[Question asked to Natalie Saimien Rude] Can you share with us the inspirational spark that was ignited to begin the epicness of Fables of the North Shore?

The initial spark was the fabulous Mr. Joshua Lindstrom, owner of Fika Coffee in Lutsen. He invited Jordan Sundberg and I to collaborate on a show for Fika. He said, “Why don’t you guys do something around your friendship?” We were thrilled at the idea and since neither of us had collaborated with another artist before to this extent we were jazzed at all the possibilities of what we could do. Jordan had the brilliant idea of writing fables right away. Art-filled storytelling around the place we loved best? It was an obvious lightening bolt “Yes!” for both of us.

[Question asked to Jordan Sundberg] What was it like to collaborate on the book “Fables of the North Shore” with Natalie Salminen Rude? Could you tell us about the book itself?

A gift! Best described as two friends playing! We got to experience the joy of openhearted collaboration where creativity builds upon itself in magical ways. We both had the perspective that anything could be possible and went along following the happy trail of ideas that came from that!

[Question asked to Natalie Saimien Rude] What did you take away from your collaboration on Fables of the North Shore with Jordan Sundberg that you feel may inspire you in your future projects?

At the onset of the project we both sensed a very divine invitation to play. I truly believe that accessing our childlike wonder, freedom, silliness and unique sense of playfulness is where every single project should begin. Even projects for me that have a more serious nature are still rooted in play. It comes from a confidence of knowing that I’m loved and there’s nothing I can do, no performing or striving, to make my work any more legitimate than it already is. The Fables are such a great reminder of that. And as far as collaboration goes, Jordan and I learned heaps and had such a ball throughout the entire adventure. I loved how collaborating pushed us further than if we had set out to do the project alone. Our friendship deepened and we were able to offer each other tremendous amounts of encouragement. Our playfulness tumbled into not only a successful project but into the wisdom that seriousness doesn’t necessarily guarantee success, though that is something the world would like us to believe. The spoils from these victories will live long into my future projects.

What has life been like after Fables of the North Shore came out? Do readers have any favorite parts?

Life has been an even greater hoot since the Fables came out! Jordan and I talk often of how much ding-dang fun we had and the best part is seeing how others immediately pick up on that just by reading the fables and engaging with the illustrative art work. There is such a radiant joy in these stories that folks can’t help but catch. Readers have so many favorites! It’s impossible to nail down a single favorite, but I would say that one of the highlights for me in seeing how folks connect with the stories and characters is how they bring the fables to life in their own way. A few examples: we had a Nordic ski club in Duluth perform “The Wizard in Denim” (a fable about skiing in jeans) as a skit for a fundraiser, Jordan and I organized a “Ski in Jeans” party at a local ski hill (absolutely hilarious as you can imagine!) and currently there is a dance company in Minneapolis using the fable “Silma the Smelt” as fodder for their choreography and story line for an upcoming performance. We have also received many videos of people reading the fables to others. There is a shared, communal joy within this little book that just has to come out and into real life. It’s wild.

If that wasn’t awe-inspiring enough, you’ve got to get your bookish hands on a copy of Fables of the North Shore and explore all of the whimsy for yourself. From the artwork that graces every page to the intricate wonderous words that will skip about the imaginative valleys in your mind, Fables of the North Shore is at the top of my list of the best books about fables. It would also make a terrific gift for your loved one who loves being on Lake Superior!

You can become even more dazzled by these fantastical artists by reading their one-on-one interviews right here On Lake Superior! Take a gander and read more about Natalie’s journey here, and become full of inspiration and wonder by reading more about Jordan here. And be sure to check out Natalie’s website and Jordan’s website to explore more beautiful artwork and learn more about these remarkable artists!

Fables of the North Shore Review

From the get-go of the introduction, ‘Joy-Filled Fruition,’ I was filled to the brim with a warm glow of optimism, silliness, and giddiness to start reading this book! It’s the perfect way to set the tone for such an adoring collection of on Lake Superior Tales. You’ll have to keep yourself from completing this captivating book in one sitting because it’s entertaining, dazzling with artwork page to page, and such a fun and refreshing read.

As someone who has read collections of tales before, you can sincerely tell that a huge amount of passion, thoughtfulness, detail, talent, and love went into every single page by both artists, Natalie Salminen Rude and Jordan Sundberg. Sometimes, it feels as though a book has been produced for the sole purpose of cycling through the shelves and pushing out millions of copies. There isn’t nearly enough heart and soul in it. That is not the case with Fables of the North Shore! This book is packed tight like a vintage suitcase, overflowing with great intentions, friendship, silliness, and quirky fables with incredible multimedia art.

Fables of the North Shore (Available to purchase on Etsy and at Dovetail Cafe!) is gorgeously and thoughtfully put together. Its array of small details (both in printing quality and humorously printed notes) creates an entire fictional experience that you’re immersed in from the time you start and finish. Heck, even after the fact! I’ll never see skiing, and long silver breads the same again– in the best way, too!

To get an idea of the Fables of the North Shore vibe and length, here’s the Table of Contents:

• Introduction: Joy-Filled Fruition
• Silma the Smelt || Page 1
• The Swimmer || Page 11
• The Portager and the Pellet || Page 22
• The Adventures of Grandma Ray || Page 29
• The Wizard in Denim || Page 41
• Acknowledgments & Catalogue

Each of these stories is wrapped in abundant messages of admiring the natural wonders around you, appreciating and never underestimating the great Lake Superior, life-saving canoe oars, thimbleberries, and stone-washed Levis. While reading Fables of the North Shore, I never knew where the fables would lead me, and the excitement of reading stories that took place on Lake Superior was enchanting. Each one left me inspired and with a drive to go out and experience a grand adventure!

I absolutely adored that at the end of each Fable, there was something to be learned, and you’ll have to see that for yourself! I highly recommend this book to everyone and anyone who loves being on Lake Superior and for those who are looking for a spark of creativity. Fables of the North Shore sent channels of inspiration and playfulness swimming throughout my brain; I’m more than positive it’ll do the same for you.

Check out Fables of the North Shore, as well as the incredible artists who brought it to life, Natalie Salminen Rude and Jordan Sundberg, as well as the coffee shop they couldn’t have done it without, Fika Coffee.

“This is easily one of the quirkiest, wittiest, loveliest, and most artistically filled adventures of fables along the great Lake Superior that I’ve ever encountered.

The humor laced throughout the entire book, from the back cover to the entertaining tales and their characters, is chef’s kiss brilliant.

Gorgeous sets of multimedia art accompany each fable, and to know that these two artists (Natalie Salminen Rude & Jordan Sundberg) came together and in collaboration with their community makes this book all the more special and dripping with rich optimism and inspiration.

This is only volume one; I certainly hope to see more Fables of the North Shore in the future because I loved this book!”

– B.A. McRae, GoodReads Review,

Thank you for taking the time to read this book review of the fantastical and magical Fables of the North Shore right here on Lake Superior. When we rally together and support our local artists, authors, coffee shop owners, and each other, we make being on Lake Superior that much more special. We’d love to have you join our Facebook Community so we can keep the good lake vibes rolling—I hope to see you there!

There is new splendor to be found every time I gaze out the window and study the vast shoreline and stop to explore at the little rest areas along the way. Spending a lazy Saturday afternoon skipping stones, hiking a short trail to see a beautiful waterfall and finding creatively painted rocks along the way is always at the top of my list, especially if I get to share it with my family. There’s something so special about Lake Superior, it just feels like home; always has and always will.

Once we reached Two Harbors, we decided it was time to grab a bite to eat, and my cousin suggested what turned out to be an incredible little gem, Madeira Bistro.

Being the Lake Superior historical enthusiast that I am, I knew I had heard the name Madeira before. Once I walked through the doors of this quaint little Bistro, the story behind the name “Madeira Bistro” quietly unfolded as it was tied into the decor of the restaurant itself.

Here we learn that the Madeira was one of 20+ ships that were shipwrecked during the terrible Mataafa Storm back in 1905. The Madeira was a schooner barge in ballast and undertow of the steamer ship, the William Edenborn.

After being separated during the storm, the Madeira struck ground and broke in two. One of the ship’s crew, Fred Benson, managed to grab onto a line, jump to the rocks and climb to the top of a 60-foot cliff, where he then pulled all but one of his crewmen to safety. With such a great loss of life and property, a campaign was launched to erect a lighthouse.

In 1910 this resulted in Split Rock Lighthouse being built within sight of the Madeira shipwreck, which currently lies off Gold Rock Cliff. I was so touched by this tragic narrative and costly legend of Lake Superior, what an incredible way to honor the memory of those lost in the storm and to carry on the history of this beautiful small town.

The Madeira Bistro opened its doors in June 2022 with a mission to share their love of food. And let me tell you…they know a thing or two about good food! Not only is the menu full of fresh and fun items, but it is also always evolving and changing.

Madeira Bistro takes pride in offering locally sourced produce, as well as house made soups and sauces. They also offer the freshest sliced meats and a variety of Minnesota made bakery breads. Because of their seasonal menu and innovative thinking, you can expect to see exciting new menu items often!

It’s important to Madeira Bistro’s mission to keep food waste low as a part of their sustainability goal. If ordering take out, you can expect to see paper and bamboo products being used, and if you’re fortunate enough to enjoy a meal at the Bistro engulfed in its playful atmosphere, you may enjoy your meal on dishes that were sourced secondhand. I love this so much as a statement of sustainability and also personally as an avid thrifter, and it certainly adds so much more character and whimsy to the experience.

This quaint, cozy and heavenly-smelling dining room features order-at-the-counter service. They serve a variety of beer, wine and house-made specialty drinks. They also offer call ahead service take out and encourage customers to pop across the street to enjoy their lunch with a delicious brew at Castle Danger Brewery’s beautiful taproom.

Upon entering the establishment, the foodie in me was awakened and I knew instantly that we were in for a true culinary treat. The air was filled with the scent of yeasty bread and an assortment of herbs and spices. The tables were filled with cheerful patrons who were lost in conversation, food and drink.

As we approached the counter and dove into the palate pleasing menu, which featured a delectable variety of sandwiches, bowls, soup, chili and of course a special section for the kiddos, we were quickly greeted by a lovely woman at the front counter. There is something so special about a small town; the charm, the quaint feel and the overwhelming friendliness.

We placed our orders at the counter, I personally went with the Knife River Roast Beef sandwich. I was instantly so thankful that I was there with a large group of family members, which allowed me to taste, smell and see so many incredible dishes! My beef sandwich was tender, juicy and smothered with gooey melty cheese and savory onions. The horseradish mayo added a splendid kick, and the bread was incredibly fresh. Some of the other reviews from our trip included:

The Harvest Grain Bowl at Madeira Bistro

A hearty grain bowl featuring MN wild rice, quinoa and maple-roasted sweet potatoes served warm over fresh arugula, shredded carrot and red cabbage. Topped with scallions, dried cranberries, pecans and slices of green apple. Served with our house made curry – spiced apple dressing.

“The curry sauce was incredible – I had to ask for extra because it was so delicious! All of the vegetables were very fresh and well balanced.”

Matt (a vegan) Son-in-law

Thai Peanut Bowl at Madeira Bistro

Warm jasmine rice, steamed broccoli, carrots and edamame served beside fresh shredded carrot, red cabbage and sliced bell peppers. Topped with cilantro, scallions, crushed peanuts, a lime wedge and a side of our Thai peanut sauce.

“This bowl was the perfect combination of ingredients and flavors. The Boylan root beer was a great addition to my meal!

Corey, Cousin

Pastrami Reuben

Freshly sliced pastrami, sauerkraut, swiss and 1000 island dressing served warm and melty on toasted pumpernickel.

“Hands down the best pastrami I have ever eaten!”

Jairo, Brother-in-Law

Hibiscus and Tea Lemonade at Madeira Bistro

“Wonderfully refreshing, just the right amount of sweetness!”

Briah, Daughter (also a vegan; shared the Harvest Grain Bowl with husband Matt)

Knife River Roast Beef Sandwich at Madeira Bistro

Warm roast beef, swiss and sauteed onions drizzled with horseradish mayo on a toasted baguette.

“Bread was so soft and the horseradish sauce gave the sandwich a tasty kick! The perfect sandwich!”

Laura, Sister

Where is Madeira Bistro Located?

Located in the lovely little town of Two Harbors, MN, Madeira Bistro is just across the street from Castle Danger Brewery and the The Tipsy Mosquito Wine And Spirit Room.

Madeira Bistro Address:

632 1st Ave, Two Harbors, MN 55616

Wrapping Up Our Visit to Madeira Bistro

If you’re looking for a quick bite to pick up for carry out on your travels along the North Shore, or you are looking for a deliciously balanced, locally sourced sustainable meal to enjoy in a playful wholesome atmosphere, add Madeira Bistro to the top of your list. My friend, you will not be disappointed!

The alarm rang at 4:30am. Luckily I went to sleep plenty early the night before and was wide awake as soon as I jumped out of bed. After a quick bite to eat I hopped in the truck and headed up highway 61.

The excitement of scooting up the north shore of Lake Superior and trying to capture a gorgeous sunrise helped the drive go nice & quick. It was pitch black when I left my house, but I had a vision for what the morning’s sunrise might be. Anyone who has spent time on Lake Superior knows the weather is predictably unpredictable, but let me give you a sneak preview — the clouds parted just enough to give us a wonderful sunrise that did not disappoint!

Instructors for the Lake Superior Sunrise Photography Workshop

Our two instructors for the day were photographer Nicholas Narog & photographer Hayes Scriven. Both gents have tremendous experience capturing images all along Minnesota’s north shore — from waterfalls to ships to the aurora borealis and so much more. In fact, Hayes is also the Site Manager at Split Rock Lighthouse so he’s got a daily front-row seat to the incredible wonders the north shore of Lake Superior has to offer.

Make sure you check out their work at the links below and follow them on their social media channels. They have some truly spectacular images that celebrate the majesty of Lake Superior that you’ll likely want to purchase and hang in your home.

Location of the Lake Superior Sunrise Photography Workshop

My home base was about 35 minutes south of the workshop’s location: Larsmont Cottages just south of Two Harbors, MN. The resort is set on 40 acres, including 1,300 feet of pristine Lake Superior shoreline. Our photography workshop took place in one of their conference spaces — a cozy, well-equipped room with the right mix of technology and a view of the lake right out the floor-to-ceiling windows.

I didn’t get a chance to eat at the Ledge Rock Grille restaurant, but the same evening I was there they were having a multi-course Hygge-inspired dinner. The restaurant itself has a fantastic vibe and one of these days I’ll make it back up there to attend an event like the Hygge Dinner at Larsmont Cottages’ Ledge Rock Grille.

Larsmont Cottages
596 Larsmont Way
Two Harbors, MN 55616
Phone: (866) 687-5634

What we Learned at the Lake Superior Sunrise Photography Workshop

Our group of students for the day included both hobbyists and aspiring professional photographers. It was a great mix of people to get a wide variety of questions that helped us all learn a bit more. And during the class we focused on two areas: in-camera capturing of the sunset and editing our photos using the Adobe Lightroom software.

Capturing Lake Superior Sunrise Photos

Way back when in the good’ol days I used to shoot a lot of photos for a marketing & live events company. I was never a trained photographer, more of a point-and-shoot guy with a decent enough eye for composition to satisfy the clients. I always seemed to be too busy to really learn the fundamentals of photography beyond what I’d learned in my basic black & white photography class back in college.

So for this Lake Superior sunrise photography workshop I dusted off my old Canon 60D DSLR camera with its 18-200 kit lens to see what I could learn. In all honesty, I was seriously considering the purchase of a shiny new camera prior to taking this workshop but I’m really happy I held off. Both the instructors really helped me realize that learning how to use a DSLR (or mirrorless) camera in fully manual mode to capture photos of various subjects in a wide variety of lighting conditions is really fun no matter what model of camera you happen to have in your hand.

When we all walked down to the shore just as the light of day started breaking, our instructors gave us some hints as to what we might want to work on for the composition of our sunrise photos. Once we had all picked out or first locations, they came by and worked with us individually and gave each of us guidance catered to our level of experience.

For me the key points I took away from the sunrise shooting session were:

• Start with a higher ISO (around 800) and work your way down as the daylight increases
• Start with a shutter speed around 1/10 of a second (if on a tripod) and an f-stop of around 5.6 — the slower shutter speed helps smooth out the water and the f-stop of 5.6 helps with both light acquisition and depth of field
• Work your way up on the f-stops as the daylight increases, but max out the aperture around f-11

As I continued to shoot while the sunrise began to peek out (and with a few more helpful hints from the instructors) I found myself pulling the camera off the tripod, lowering the camera + my body closer to the ground, and gravitating toward settings more like this:

• ISO of 100 (the lowest my Canon 60D allows)
• Aperture between 5.6-11
• Shutter speed around 1/60
• PRO TIP: Capture darker vs lighter — if you blow out the whites/light areas you can’t get anything back, but there’s generally a lot of detail that can be pulled out of the shadows, which you’ll see in the Lightroom editing example in the next section

Here are a couple examples of the sunrise shots I was able to capture, along with their settings:

Editing Lake Superior Sunrise Photos Using Adobe Lightroom

As the sun continued to rise we all shot more photos along the shoreline. It was interesting to try and capture more of the sky colors reflecting off the clouds in the sky and the elements along the shore as the light conditions changed. Then, it was back inside for some hands-on lab work editing our morning’s captures.

We all brought our own laptops running Adobe Lightroom, and our instructors had their computer hooked up to the large monitor in the conference room. As they walked us through some of the images they had shot alongside us that morning, we got a good sense of their approach to editing photos in these lighting conditions.

Some key points for editing sunrise photos in Lightroom:

• Use the Edit panel’s “Auto” function to give yourself a good starting point based on what the software suggests for your image, then fine-tune those settings to your preferences
• The Lightroom masking tool allows you to easily isolate the sky from the foreground elements to make specific adjustments
• Duplicate and invert the sky mask to create a mask for the foreground, and you can pull details from shadows differently than you might for the sky
• The Texture, Clarity, and Dehaze tools in Lightroom’s Edit panel are powerful, but use them sparingly since they have rather distinct impacts on specific elements of your photographs
• The Heal and Content-Aware Remove functions on Lightroom’s Healing panel are solid methods to remove items that may be distracting from the primary focal area of your photo — it takes a little practice to use these effectively but the results can be impressive

Overall, the Lake Superior Sunrise Photography Workshop lead by Nicholas Narog & Hayes Scriven was a fantastic learning experience. The clouds continued to clear throughout the morning and I was inspired to continue shooting photos along the north shore as I drove home, stopping in various turnouts to meander down closer to the water. I’d definitely recommend attending their courses in the future so be sure to follow them on their social media channels listed above to hear about their next sessions.