The Beach In Minnesota That Will Quickly Transport You To Another World
By Betsy Rathburn|Published August 30, 2017
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Betsy Rathburn
Author
Betsy is a Minneapolis-based writer who's lived in Minnesota for 20 years. If you know of any amazing Minnesota restaurants, nature areas, or other attractions, feel free to let her know about them at brathburn@onlyinyourstate.com or on Twitter @betsyrathburn.
We’ve talked about Minnesota’s pink beach and discovered which lake has the bluest water. But did you know that Minnesota has a black beach? It’s located along the shores of Lake Superior, and it’s just as beautiful as any white-sand beach anywhere. A stroll along its sandy stretch will make you feel like you’re in another world.
Black Beach may just be one of the strangest places you can visit on the North Shore. It's located off Highway 61 about 20 miles north of Beaver Bay. Check out its exact location here.
The beach is notable for being the only black beach on the North Shore. But the color is not naturally occurring. It's the result of taconite tailings that were dumped here for decades.
The pollution caused fish in the area to retreat several miles from shore. It also caused the water clarity to significantly decrease. After a few more decades, the fish came back and the water became more clear. But the beach's otherworldly color has remained.
While the beach serves as a reminder of our environmental impact, it is still an incredible place to visit. The black sand contrasts beautifully with the vivid red island that stands just offshore.
In fact, the entire beach is a study in contrasts. When the blue sky reflects in the water, it's hard to imagine a more beautiful - or colorful - place.
Black Beach even holds a unique beauty in the winter. Its dark color is offset by the gray water and bright, white snow. This beach is truly beautiful no matter when you visit.