The Black Beach On Minnesota’s North Shore Looks Like Something From Another Planet
The Land of 10,000 Lakes is known for just that: its enormous collection of beautiful, sparkling lakes. But Minnesota has much more to offer than our bodies of water. Each of these lakes is surrounded by amazing natural scenery that is worth visiting on its own. Some lakes are surrounded by old forests so thick that light barely penetrates. Others have miles of tall cliffs and rocky shorelines. Still other lakes wash sandy beaches that make it easy to spread out and enjoy the scenery.
It is a sandy beach on Lake Superior that we want to introduce today. Black Beach on Minnesota’s North Shore is unlike anything else in the state – and maybe even in the world. It’s otherworldly beauty looks like something from another planet, and everyone should visit at least once. Here’s what you need to know:
Black Beach is a small but beautiful beach on the North Shore of Lake Superior in the northern Minnesota town of Silver Bay. It's the only beach of its kind in Minnesota.
The beach is known for the fine black sand that lines the shore of Lake Superior. Bordered by jagged cliffs and rock formations, it creates a unique oasis for anyone who visits.
The black sand is not a natural occurrence. It's the result of taconite - dumped for years into the water by mining companies - washing ashore with the waves. The tiny pieces of this mineral have mixed with the sand to create an otherworldly phenomenon.
Speaking of cliffs, some choose to climb up to get a better view of the beach. The vantage point from above makes Minnesota look like a far-off island. The scrubby trees and bushes that decorate the rocks only add to the effect.
The beach has picnic tables for guests to enjoy during their stay. This is a great place to have a picnic as you take in the beauty of Lake Superior before you.
Black Beach is beautiful even when it's too cold to picnic. Under a blanket of snow, the beach becomes a peaceful paradise. With no sound but the water, it's one of the most relaxing places in Minnesota.
No matter when you visit, you'll be treated to amazing Lake Superior views. Though Black Beach is not naturally occurring, its beauty helps visitors appreciate Minnesota's natural landscape all the same.
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.
