Four trips and endless adventures in Cook County

If you picture a quintessential Minnesota summer, it probably looks like Cook County.

From picturesque towns to pristine nature, Cook County has the perfect summer itinerary for everyone. But no matter what kind of adventure you’re planning, a trip up north means escaping the heat, slowing down and enjoying time with family and friends.

As you plan your getaway to Cook County, consider visiting during the week to beat the summer crowds.

Embrace art and culture in Grand Marais

Looking for a cozy retreat with plenty of arts and culture? Grand Marais is proof good things do come in small packages. Located between the Sawtooth Mountains and Lake Superior, Grand Marais is surrounded by some of the best views in Minnesota.

Grand Marais is the oldest art colony in Minnesota, so the creative traditions here run deep. Start by exploring the local shops and galleries to get a feel for the area and find a treasure or two to take home. You can even see painters drawing inspiration for their work at Artist’s Point.

During your stay, be sure to visit some of the unique local restaurants and get a taste of the North Shore. Plenty of spots offer patios, so you can enjoy your meal with postcard worthy views of Lake Superior.

Venture out in Lutsen, Tofte and Schroeder

Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-packed outdoor adventure or just some off-the-grid relaxation, Lutsen, Tofte and Schroeder are your jumping off points.

The southern gateway to Cook County, the area is where Lake Superior meets the Sawtooth Mountain Range and Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Here, you’ll find some of the best fishing, paddling and hiking in the entire state.

Prefer to stay on dry land? Head to the Superior National Forest and explore a vast network of hiking and biking trails. The new Gitchi-Gami State Trail also offers miles of paved trails perfect for riders of all skill levels.

Lutsen, Tofte and Schroeder are home to plenty of spas and resorts, so you’ll have a cozy retreat waiting for you at the end of your adventure.

At the very tip of Minnesota’s Arrowhead Region sits Grand Portage, where rich culture meets natural beauty. A perfect trip for families, Grand Portage is a chance to immerse yourself in the very best of the North Shore with its history, culture and outdoor scenery.

Pay a visit to the Grand Portage National Monument & Heritage Center, which highlights the culture and traditions of the Grand Portage Ojibwe.

For an even deeper look into the area’s history and culture, plan your trip during the Grand Portage National Monument Rendezvous Days and Celebration Pow Wow from August 8 to August 10.

Make sure to head up to Grand Portage State Park and venture to High Falls, Minnesota’s tallest waterfall. There, get a glimpse across the Canadian border and wave to our neighbors up north. With paved trails, the hike is accessible to families and hikers of all ages.

Explore the Gunflint Trail

The 57-mile paved national scenic byway is dotted with spectacular lakes, endless woods and plenty of quaint, cozy lodges.

Many people take the Gunflint Trail to start their journey to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness - a vast wilderness made up of glacially carved lakes. If you’re eyeing this Minnesota bucket list item this summer, considering taking a day trip into the BWCAW.

Nature lovers can also find plenty of trails fit for day hikes and backpacking excursions along the Gunflint Trail.

While you’re out hiking, keep your eyes peeled for wild blueberries. From July 18 to August 10, foragers can bring their blueberries to an official weigh station to have it entered into the Gunflint Trail’s Biggest Blueberry Contest.