Split Rock Lighthouse State Park is located approximately 20 miles northeast of Two Harbors along Minnesota’s scenic North Shore. Encompassing more than 2,000 acres of rugged Lake Superior shoreline, forested ridges, and inland streams, the park is one of the most popular outdoor recreation destinations in the state.
The park offers miles of hiking trails that wind through spruce, fir, birch, and pine forests, leading visitors to dramatic overlooks, cobble beaches, and spectacular views of Lake Superior. The Gitchi-Gami State Trail passes through the park, making it a popular destination for cycling, while opportunities for camping, wildlife viewing, photography, and birding attract visitors throughout the year.
Located within the boundaries of the state park is the iconic Split Rock Lighthouse Historic Site, operated separately by the Minnesota Historical Society. Visitors can tour the lighthouse, keeper’s homes, exhibits, and visitor center while learning about the maritime history of Lake Superior and the stories of the lighthouse keepers who lived and worked on the remote cliffside station.
The park’s shoreline and elevated viewpoints provide some of the most photographed landscapes on the North Shore. Changing weather and lake conditions create ever-changing scenery, while wildlife including deer, foxes, eagles, and a variety of songbirds are frequently observed throughout the park.
Split Rock Lighthouse State Park is open year-round. Summer and fall are popular for hiking, camping, and sightseeing, while winter offers opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and experiencing the dramatic beauty of Lake Superior’s frozen shoreline. Park amenities include a visitor center, campground, showers, restrooms, and cart-in campsites that provide a rustic camping experience while preserving the natural character of the landscape.
