Imagine escaping to a place where towering pines sway in the breeze, crystal-clear lakes reflect the endless sky, and the hustle of modern life feels worlds away. Nestled within Minnesota’s Superior National Forest lie ten secluded towns, each offering a unique blend of natural beauty and peaceful solitude. Whether you’re seeking rugged adventures or quiet moments by a hidden waterfall, these communities provide the perfect retreat into nature’s embrace. Join us as we count down these hidden gems, uncovering the secrets and charms that make each one a haven for those yearning to get off the beaten path.
10. Buyck: Rustic Charm Deep in the Woods
Buyck is a tiny community with a population of just a few dozen residents, tucked away deep in the Superior National Forest. This secluded town is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like fishing, canoeing, and hiking in the surrounding wilderness. The main industries here revolve around tourism and guiding services, supporting visitors who come to explore the vast forests and waterways of the area. Buyck’s seclusion is evident in its untouched landscapes and the absence of urban development, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a true retreat into nature. Hidden gems like the Vermilion River Gorge and nearby Echo Lake provide serene settings for solitude and reflection, far from crowded tourist spots.
Where is Buyck?
Located in northeastern Minnesota, Buyck sits near the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, a region renowned for its pristine lakes and boreal forests. Its remote location, accessible primarily by winding forest roads, adds to its sense of isolation. The town is approximately 30 miles northeast of Orr and can be reached by taking County Road 23 through dense woodlands. Buyck’s off-the-beaten-path setting grants it a peaceful atmosphere, making it a hidden retreat for those willing to venture into the depths of the Northwoods.
9. Silver Bay: Scenic Cliffs and Secret Beaches
Silver Bay is a small town with a population of around 1,800, nestled along the rugged shores of Lake Superior. It’s renowned for its dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and secluded beaches that offer breathtaking views of the lake’s vast expanse. Visitors and residents alike enjoy exploring the Superior Hiking Trail, visiting Black Beach with its unique dark sand, and discovering the nearby waterfalls and state parks. The town’s economy historically centered around taconite mining, but today tourism plays a significant role. Silver Bay’s seclusion comes from its location away from major highways and cities, allowing for tranquil experiences amidst natural beauty without the crowds.
Where is Silver Bay?
Situated on the North Shore of Lake Superior in northeastern Minnesota, Silver Bay is approximately 54 miles northeast of Duluth. The town is accessed via Highway 61, which meanders along the lake and offers stunning scenic drives. Its placement between the lake and the dense forests of the Superior National Forest adds to its secluded feel. Despite its accessibility, Silver Bay remains a peaceful destination where the sounds of waves and the rustling of trees replace urban noise, making it an ideal spot for a quiet getaway.
8. Crane Lake: Edge of the Voyageurs’ Wilderness
With a year-round population of just over 80 residents, Crane Lake is a tiny community serving as a gateway to the unspoiled wilderness of Voyageurs National Park. This secluded town is a haven for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing, with waterways that connect to a vast network of lakes and rivers. Tourism and hospitality are the primary industries, supporting visitors who come for outdoor adventures and to experience the tranquility of the northern wilderness. Crane Lake’s seclusion stems from its remote location and the extensive wilderness that surrounds it, offering a peaceful escape where nature reigns supreme.
Where is Crane Lake?
Crane Lake is located in northeastern Minnesota, near the Canadian border and at the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and Voyageurs National Park. The town can be reached by following Highway 53 north from Duluth and then taking county roads that wind through forests and around lakes. Its position, surrounded by water and forest with limited road access, contributes to its sense of isolation. To get there, travelers pass through miles of unspoiled scenery, arriving at a destination where the journey itself is part of the serene experience.
7. Babbitt: Gateway to Outdoor Adventure
Babbitt is a small town with a population of about 1,500, offering a quiet retreat amid the lakes and forests of northeastern Minnesota. Known for its friendly community and access to outdoor activities, Babbitt provides opportunities for fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, and hiking. The town’s history is rooted in mining, particularly iron ore, but today it serves as a tranquil base for exploring the surrounding wilderness. Its seclusion is attributed to its location away from major urban centers and surrounded by expansive natural landscapes, allowing residents and visitors to immerse themselves in the serenity of the Northwoods.
Where is Babbitt?
Located in St. Louis County, Babbitt lies approximately 100 miles north of Duluth and just south of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. It is accessible via Highway 21, which connects to Highway 169, weaving through forests and around lakes. The town’s remote setting, bordered by vast stretches of woodland and waterways, enhances its secluded atmosphere. Getting there involves traveling through picturesque scenery, making the journey a pleasant prelude to the peace that awaits in Babbitt.
6. Schroeder: Hidden Waterfalls and Historical Charm
Schroeder is a small community with a population of less than 200, nestled along the North Shore of Lake Superior. The town is home to hidden gems like Father Baraga’s Cross and the Temperance River State Park, where visitors can explore deep river gorges and hidden waterfalls. Schroeder’s historical charm is evident in its logging history, with remnants like the Cross River Heritage Center showcasing its past. The town’s seclusion comes from its quiet location along a less-traveled section of the shoreline, offering peaceful surroundings free from the bustle of larger tourist areas.
Where is Schroeder?
Schroeder is situated along Highway 61, approximately 80 miles northeast of Duluth, Minnesota. Perched between the lake and the forest, the town is enveloped by nature on all sides. Its remote location, far from major cities and with minimal commercial development, contributes to its secluded feel. To reach Schroeder, travelers enjoy a scenic drive along Lake Superior’s shoreline, arriving in a place where the tranquil sounds of nature prevail over the noise of urban life.
5. Lutsen: Mountainous Escape in the Northwoods
Lutsen is a small town with a population around 190, known for its stunning mountain vistas and as a hub for outdoor recreation. Home to Lutsen Mountains, the largest ski resort in the Midwest, it offers year-round activities including skiing, hiking, and golfing. The town’s main industries are tourism and hospitality, catering to visitors seeking adventure in the scenic surroundings. Lutsen’s seclusion is due to its remote location and the vast natural areas that envelop it, providing a serene environment away from crowded urban centers.
Where is Lutsen?
Located along the North Shore of Lake Superior in northeastern Minnesota, Lutsen is accessible via Highway 61, about 90 miles northeast of Duluth. The town sits at the edge of the Sawtooth Mountains, offering striking landscapes. Its distance from major metropolitan areas and the surrounding wilderness enhance its secluded atmosphere. The journey to Lutsen is a picturesque drive along the lake, culminating in a tranquil destination where mountains meet the forest.
4. Hovland: Secluded Shores and Boreal Beauty
Hovland is a tiny community with a population of fewer than 100 residents, offering a peaceful retreat along Lake Superior’s rugged coastline. The town is a haven for nature lovers, with access to the Superior Hiking Trail and nearby Judge C.R. Magney State Park, known for the mysterious Devil’s Kettle waterfall. The primary industry is tourism, especially for those seeking solitude in nature. Hovland’s seclusion is marked by its remote location, dense boreal forests, and minimal development, providing an untouched landscape for quiet exploration.
Where is Hovland?
Situated in northeastern Minnesota, Hovland lies along Highway 61, about 19 miles northeast of Grand Marais and close to the Canadian border. The town’s remote setting, surrounded by thick forests and the vast expanse of Lake Superior, contributes to its secluded feel. Access is primarily via the scenic highway that winds along the lake, offering breathtaking views. Hovland’s distance from major towns and cities ensures a tranquil environment where visitors can truly disconnect.
3. Tofte: Lakeside Solitude Along Pristine Shores
Tofte is a small community with a population of around 225, nestled between the Superior National Forest and the shores of Lake Superior. The town offers access to outdoor activities like kayaking, hiking, and exploring the nearby Temperance River State Park. The main industries are tourism and hospitality, with several resorts and lodges catering to visitors seeking a peaceful getaway. Tofte’s seclusion comes from its serene lakeside setting and the surrounding wilderness, providing an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy nature’s tranquility without the crowds.
Where is Tofte?
Located along Highway 61 on Minnesota’s North Shore, Tofte is approximately 82 miles northeast of Duluth. The town’s position between the vast lake and dense forests enhances its secluded atmosphere. Traveling to Tofte involves a scenic drive along Lake Superior, passing through small towns and natural landmarks. Its remote location away from urban centers allows for a quiet retreat where one can unwind amidst stunning natural beauty.
2. Finland: Nordic Heritage Nestled in Nature
Finland is a quaint unincorporated community with a population of around 200, rich in Nordic heritage and surrounded by lush forests. The town is close to natural attractions like the Baptism River and Tettegouche State Park, offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, and exploring waterfalls. The main industries include tourism and small-scale farming. Finland’s seclusion is due to its location off the main highways, nestled amidst the hills and forests of northeastern Minnesota, preserving its quiet charm and cultural roots.
Where is Finland?
Finland is located in Lake County, about 6 miles inland from Lake Superior and 80 miles northeast of Duluth. Accessible via Minnesota Highway 1 from Highway 61, the town lies off the beaten path. Its remote location and surrounding natural landscapes contribute to its secluded feel. Travelers to Finland enjoy a peaceful journey through forested areas, arriving at a community where time seems to slow down and nature is a constant companion.
1. Isabella: Wilderness Retreat Amidst Towering Pines
Isabella is a tiny community with an estimated population of just 50 residents, offering a true wilderness retreat amidst the towering pines of the Superior National Forest. This secluded town provides unparalleled access to outdoor activities like canoeing, hiking, and wildlife watching. There are no major industries, with the local economy centered around tourism and services for outdoor enthusiasts. Isabella’s seclusion is profound, with minimal development and vast stretches of untouched forest, making it an ideal destination for those seeking solitude and a deep connection with nature.
Where is Isabella?
Situated in Lake County, northeastern Minnesota, Isabella is located along Minnesota Highway 1, approximately 40 miles northeast of the town of Ely. The area is accessed by scenic byways that wind through the forest, with limited cell service and few signs of modern life. Isabella’s remote location, far from urban centers and surrounded by wilderness, enhances its secluded atmosphere. Getting there involves a journey through some of Minnesota’s most pristine natural areas, culminating in a place where one can truly unplug and immerse in the serenity of the wilderness.
I can’t believe how beautiful Minnesota’s hidden towns are! Buyck and Silver Bay are perfect for nature lovers. I’d love to explore Isabella and Tofte next. Such a cozy vibe!