The Land of 10,000 Lakes is full of surprises. No matter which corner of Minnesota you choose to visit, there are always at least one or two hidden attractions you never knew existed. From unsung restaurants to quirky small-town museums, there’s always something to see in this beautiful state. Today, we want to share a hidden gem that, if you haven’t visited, you should add to your bucket list right away. Check it out:
Along Minnesota’s North Shore, a small parking area surrounded by trees hides one of the most mysteriously beautiful sights in the state.
Google Maps
But walk down a short path, and you’ll be greeted by a strange sight: a beautiful black beach that stretches toward the choppy waters of Lake Superior.
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The beach’s pebbles - not quite small enough to be sand - are very unusual.
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That will be clear when you notice the big, rough rocks that dominate one side of the beach. With their black and red coloration, they provide an interesting contrast to the pebbles.
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So where do the black pebbles come from? It turns out, this area was once used as a dumping ground for taconite tailings. Like some other parts of northern Minnesota’s landscape, it is the result of mining.
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Regardless, this black-sand beach is one of the most mysterious hidden gem attractions on the North Shore - and in Minnesota.
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The panoramic views of Lake Superior, coupled with the rocky cliffs in the distance, are simply unforgettable.
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If you’d like to visit this stunning scene, head north on Highway 61. It’s about 20 miles north of Beaver Bay. Check out this map for complete directions.
PJ Nelson/Flickr
Have you ever visited Black Beach? What did you think? Let us know in the comments below!
Google Maps
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PJ Nelson/Flickr
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Rich J/TripAdvisor
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