The Magic of November on Lake Superior: Why Late Fall is the North Shore’s Hidden Gem
Most travelers plan their North Shore cabin getaways around peak fall colors or snowy winter weekends. But there’s a secret season in between that few people talk about — late fall, after the leaves drop and before the first big snow hits. At Tofte Trails, it might just be the most magical time of all.
This photo was from our stay in Late November. Morning views after the curtain opens up revealing the 10ft sliding glass door views from your king bed at Tofte Trails. Shortly after this, 3 deer jumped the creek below while the waves on Lake Superior crashed in the distance. Step outside with the dusting of snow beneath your feet and a hot cup of Fika Coffee in hand.
1) Lake Views Open Up at Tofte Trails Cabins
When the leaves fall, the forest transforms. From your cabin’s king bed with a fire going, you can suddenly see deep into the woods and sometimes spot deer leaping across the creek below. Look beyond the treetops and you’ll catch views of Lake Superior that aren’t visible in summer. Waking up in the morning and watching the golden rays of the sun light up the forest as your blind opens, coffee in hand, is something to be experienced in person. It truly is heavenly.
2) Witness the November Gales on Lake Superior
This is also the season of the famous November gales, when powerful winds whip up waves that crash dramatically against the rocky shoreline. Watching the stormy lake in the distance from your cozy cabin (Gitchi or Kadunce cabin) or bundled up on a nearby overlook is an unforgettable North Shore experience.
Just a mile drive (park at Ray Berglund State Wayside), walk or bike ride from Tofte Trails, you can sit and watch the waves while snuggled up in a warm blanket and hot latte or tea from Coho Cafe (or make one if your cabin with our Fika Coffee beans!)
3) Hike + Bike Without the Crowds
With summer visitors gone and the bugs behind us, the trails feel private. Oberg Mountain, Cascade River, and nearby bike routes are wide open - perfect for crisp days outdoors without waiting for parking spots or dodging mosquitoes.
Drive up the beautiful Gunflint Trail and hike Honeymoon trail (above) with stunning views. Afterwards, warm up with a hot meal next to the fire at Gunflint Tavern in Grand Marais on your drive back to Tofte Trails.
4) Cozy Nights, Northern Lights & Pure Calm
Late fall is the North Shore slowed down: quieter towns, empty trails, and cozy nights by the fire. Inside your Tofte Trails cabin, you can watch movies on the projector, sip wine by the fireplace, and wake to the hush of the forest floor lit up in golds and greens. Be sure to turn on your Northern Lights app to ensure you don’t miss the chance to see them dancing on the North Shore & from our land!
Beginning of November on the base of our 17 acres overlooking Lake Superior. We have a large bonfire, tables and chairs down here for you to soak up the beauty and peace.
5) A Hidden Value Season
This overlooked window also comes with reduced nightly rates and better availability. Fewer crowds + more value = the perfect time to sneak away.
✨ Don’t Overlook the Overlooked
What feels gray and lifeless in the city comes alive up north - with wild lakes, forest color, and calm you can feel. Late fall at Tofte Trails is a hidden gem waiting to be experienced.
Start and end your day cozied up in your custom built cabin with 140 year old reclaimed barn wood and luxury details throughout. All of these photos are taken from our iphone on trips to the North Shore and of course staying at Tofte Trails. It truly is one of the most stunning places on earth to reset.
