Split Rock Lighthouse State Park is located in the Arrowhead region of Minnesota near Duluth and Two Harbors.

Park Highlights:

• The lighthouse, at the top of a 130-foot-tall cliff that overlooks Lake Superior, began operating in 1910. The 370,000-candlepower light guided ships safely away from the rocky shore for 59 years. Onboard navigating equipment eventually made the lighthouse obsolete and it was closed. In 1971, the federal government deeded the site to the state of Minnesota to be used as a historic site.
• Surrounding land was purchased, and the 2,103 acres became a state park. The Minnesota Historical Society restored the lighthouse and grounds, and now offers educational programs for visitors.

How to Get to Split Rock Lighthouse State Park: Drive 20 miles northeast from Two Harbors on Highway 61 to the park entrance.

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Split Rock Lighthouse State Park’s Natural Attractions: The lighthouse is one of the most recognized and photographed tourist attractions in our state. The breathtaking views of the “greatest of the Great Lakes” is reason enough to visit. This park is a “must see” stop for anyone who drives up the North Shore of Lake Superior.   

Things to Do in Split Rock Lighthouse State Park: Tour the lighthouse and the lighthouse keeper’s house. An Interpretive Program offers costumed interpreters, films, exhibits, and displays. 

This is just one of the lighthouse tours on the North Shore.

Kayakers can explore 6.25 miles of shoreline, and scuba divers can register at the park office to explore the 1905 wreck of the tow barge, Madeira.  

Hike 12 miles of trails, including 6 miles of self-guided trails. The best views are from the peak of the Day Hill Trail. There are also 6 miles of mountain bike trails. In winter, 8 miles of trails are groomed for cross-country skiing. Snowshoeing is permitted in the park, except on groomed trails. A warming house is available.

Camping in Split Rock Lighthouse State Park: The small campground here has some of the best views anywhere in the state. There are 20 cart-in sites for tents, 4 backpack-in sites, and 2 kayak sites accessible from Lake Superior. Picnic tables, fire rings, showers, and flush and vault toilets are available.

Read More: Minnesota Camping

Split Rock Lighthouse State Park is listed as one of our Top 10 North Shore Attractions.

More Attractions in This Region: Drive as much of the North Shore as you have time for. Stop at charming, small towns like Two Harbors, Lutsen, and Grand Marais.  Explore the Gunflint Trail  

Hunt for agates along the shore of Lake Superior.

Other State Parks in This Region of Minnesota: Gooseberry Falls State Park > Tettegouche State Park > George H. Crosby Manitou State Park > Temperance River State Park > Cascade River State Park > Judge C.R. Magney State Park > Grand Portage State Park

Contact

3755 Split Rock Lighthouse Road
Two Harbors, MN 55616

Phone: 218-226-6377

Email: mailto:SplitRockLthouse.StatePark@state.mn.us