Pet-Friendly Fall Adventures in the Great Outdoors
At Tofte Trails, we understand that your dog is part of the family, and they deserve to enjoy the beauty of the North Shore just as much as you do. Our pet-friendly cabins provide the perfect home base to explore the great outdoors of Minnesota's North Shore. With nearby pet-friendly trails and endless stunning hikes, you and your dog can enjoy leisurely walks, invigorating hikes, gorgeous overlooks, views and plenty of fresh air. Not looking for a pet friendly stay? We have a cabin that is pet free as well!
Explore the North Shore together, with dog-friendly activities that include:
- Hiking the Oberg Mountain Loop: This top ranked trail is not only stunning in the fall but also pet-friendly, offering panoramic views of Lake Superior, rolling hills and fall foliage. The best part? We are located just a couple minutes drive from Oberg Mountain for easy access to catch a sunrise or sunset hike!
- Lutsen Gondola for Fall Colors & hike: Not to be missed! Take the short drive to Lutsen Mountains and take the gondola up to the top. You can even bring your 4 legged friend with! The views at the top are absolutely breath taking. You will want to get off, walk to the right for expansive views of the Fall colors. There is even a hike here to enjoy!
- Wild Country Maple Products: Another incredible experience to add to your visit! The drive up to this perfect, quant & family owned Maple Syrup operation is simply gorgeous. Only about a 24 minute drive from Tofte Trails and be sure to purchase some goodies from their shop and make pancakes back at your cabin with their homemade Maple Syrup.
- Caribou Lake Hike: On your way to or from the Wild Country Maple experience, you will want to pack clothes for hiking...and don't forget your camera! The trail head is just across the road from the parking lot and it is a short hike up to the overlook. These views are expansive and overlook the Fall leaves changing as well as the stunning Caribou Lake.
- Cascade River State Park & Onion River: both hikes are nearby your cabin at Tofte Trails and have gorgeous river & Fall views.
- Kadunce River Trailhead: one of our favorite hikes is just past Grand Marais. Be sure to look down to your left on the hike up and in, the steep gorges and cliffs tower above the rushing river. Bring a couple chairs or a blanket to relax on the beach after your hike with a picnic on Lake Superior.
- Scenic Drives along Highway 61 & up the Gunflint Trail: Take yourself, or your loved one/dog for a scenic drive along the North Shore's iconic highway, stopping at stunning overlooks and beaches where you can stretch your legs and take in the sights. Keep your eyes peeled early morning and evening for Moose, Deer, Fox, Wolves, Bear and other wildlife on the Gunflint Trail!
Romantic Getaways Surrounded by Nature's Beauty
For couples looking to rekindle romance amidst the splendor of fall, Tofte Trails offers the perfect setting. Our custom built cabins provide privacy, stunning views and comfort, with luxurious amenities that make your stay truly special. Imagine waking up to a cool forest breeze, enjoying a cup of coffee on your private patio, and ending the day with a glass of wine by the fire as the sun sets over the tree line and illuminates the sky over Lake Superior.
The North Shore is a haven for romantic activities, including:
- Dinner at Local Restaurants: Enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the nearby restaurants, where you can savor locally sourced cuisine while overlooking the stunning fall landscapes. Our favorites include Bluefin Grille, Cascade Restaurant and CoHo cafe just minutes from your cabin. Head to Grand Marais for dinner at Angry Trout and sit inside or outside, soaking up the views of the water, boats and Artists' Point in the distance.
- Sunset Walks on the Beach: Take a leisurely stroll along the shores of Lake Superior, hand in hand, as the sun sets and paints the sky in shades of pink and orange.
- Watch and listen to the waves crash on Lake Superior: park at Ray Berglund State Wayside, just a few minutes away & hike Onion River trail. Simply walk up the stair case to access the trailhead. Afterwards, instead of leaving, walk across hwy 61 to a little hidden trail out to Lake Superior. Walk to the right and pick a cliff to set up a picnic and watch/listen to the waves crashing all to yourself. This is one of our favorite lake spots to breathe deeply and soak in the beauty of the big lake.
Best Minnesota Solo Retreat for Rejuvenation and Reflection
Sometimes, the best way to recharge is by embracing solitude in nature. Tofte Trails is the perfect place for a solo retreat, offering peaceful surroundings that invite reflection, creativity, and deep relaxation. Spend your days hiking the nearby trails, enjoying a quiet morning coffee with views of Lake Superior, or simply unwinding with a good book in your cozy cabin. Reconnect with yourself with deep breathing, writing, painting or immerse yourself in the endless hike options followed by dipping your feet into the ice cold water of Lake Superior.
To make your solo retreat even more special, consider:
- Scheduling a Massage at Lutzen Massage in Grand Marais: Just a short drive away, Lutzen Massage offers soothing treatments that are perfect for unwinding and rejuvenating your mind and body. Let them know you are staying at Tofte Trails and have your confirmation email ready to show them!
- Visiting the Sisu & Löyly Sauna: Experience the traditional Finnish sauna at Sisu & Löyly in Grand Marais, where you can relax and detoxify while overlooking the beautiful Lake Superior. Truly an experience not to miss!
Explore the Best of the North Shore This Fall
Tofte Trails is perfectly situated to give you access to some of the North Shore's most iconic activities and attractions. Whether you're looking to hike, bike, or simply explore the local culture, there's something for everyone:
- Hiking the Oberg Mountain Trail: One of the most popular hikes in the area, the Oberg Mountain Trail offers stunning views of the fall foliage and Lake Superior. It’s a must-do for any fall visitor. The best time to hike is for the sunrise over Lake Superior and at sunset watching the sun sink behind the rolling hills over Oberg Lake.
- Mountain Biking: For those who love to ride, the nearby mountain bike trails provide an exhilarating way to experience the North Shore's rugged terrain. (Britton Peak, Short Stacker and Jackpot are some of our favorites!)
- Scenic Drives: Take a drive along Highway 61, which winds along the coast of Lake Superior and offers some of the most scenic views in the state. Stop at local coffee shops and restaurants along the way to enjoy a warm drink or a delicious meal. Don't forget to drive just a bit further to explore the Gunflint Trail and grab a drink or dinner at Poplar House! (call first to check their hours)
- Exploring Grand Marais: Just a short drive from Tofte Trails, Grand Marais is a charming town known for its vibrant arts scene, unique shops, and stunning views of Lake Superior.
Unwind in Nature’s Beauty at Tofte Trails
As the leaves fall and the days grow shorter, there’s no better place to experience the beauty of autumn than at Tofte Trails. Our cabins are more than just a place to stay—they’re a home away from home, where you can reconnect with nature, spend quality time with loved ones, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Whether you're planning a pet-friendly getaway, a romantic escape, or a solo retreat, Tofte Trails offers the perfect setting for your fall adventure. Book your stay today and discover the magic of the North Shore in all its autumn glory.
We look forward to welcoming you to Tofte Trails, where the beauty of the North Shore is right at your doorstep.
.jpg)