This Bluff-Top Gondola Is the Best Way to See Minnesota’s Fall Foliage

We are so fortunate that our state is home not only to lakes upon lakes, but also to large swaths of forest, from the Big Woods in the south and central parts of the state to the aspen parklands, Northwoods, and boreal forests of the north. Thanks to all this natural beauty, there may be no better time of year in the Land of 10,0000 Lakes than fall in Minnesota: The weather is cooler, the mosquitoes have returned to whatever evil place they come from, and, perhaps best, our trees put on quite a show.

And when it comes time to enjoy all the fall foliage in Minnesota, there are few places that I love more than the North Shore of Lake Superior. You get the contrast of the bluffs and ridges bedecked with autumn colors sandwiched between the blue sky and the even bluer big lake - and it makes for some awfully dramatic sights... especially if you can get above it all and take it in from an elevated vantage point.

One spectacular way to do just that is to pay a visit to Lutsen Mountains resort, which you'll find between the North Shore villages of Tofte and Lutsen - just look for the big sign on the inland side of Highway 61 and head uphill. Head to the top, and follow the signs to the Summit Express Gondola.

The gondola will take you from main resort area to a chalet on Moose Mountain. The trip will take you over the Poplar River Valley, above the ski resorts forested slopes. In fall, of course, those slopes are cloaked in all of their autumn splendor.

At your perch atop Moose Mountain, enjoy a beverage and/or a snack as you take in the incredible views over the Sawtooth Mountains' fall foliage and out to Lake Superior.

You'll also find plenty of wonderful hiking in the Lutsen Mountains area - check out AllTrails Plus for reviews and trail maps of the area. For more information on Lutsen Mountains' Summit Express Gondola, including schedule and cost, head over to the resort's website. You'll find more awesome photos of the gondola in action of the Lutsen Mountains Facebook page, as well. When I've finished exploring all there is to see at Lutsen Mountains, I usually head back down to the shore, and refuel at one of the awesome restaurants in this part of Minnesota.

Have you visited Lutsen Mountains and taken the Summit Express Gondola? Let us know in the comments!