Looking for the best things to do in Silver Bay, MN?
Looking for the best things to do in Silver Bay, MN? Nestled along Minnesota’s North Shore of Lake Superior, Silver Bay is one of the region’s top destinations for waterfalls, scenic overlooks, Lake Superior beaches, hiking, biking, ATV riding, family attractions, and unforgettable outdoor adventures. Whether you’re visiting for the day or planning a weekend getaway, these are the attractions you won’t want to miss.
Here are the top things to do in Silver Bay, MN
Use the New Multimodal Trail Center in Silver Bay
The new Multi-Modal Trail Center in downtown Silver Bay is the perfect basecamp for exploring the area’s incredible outdoor recreation.
Designed as a central hub for both motorized and non-motorized adventures, it provides convenient access to some of the North Shore’s most popular trails. It is also a welcoming rest stop for travelers exploring the North Shore Scenic Drive and the Superior National Forest Scenic Byway.
The Silver Bay Multimodal Trail Center offers:
- Separate access for both motorized and non-motorized trail users
- 24-hour access to restrooms and coin-operated showers
- Lighted parking, including space for large vehicles and trailers
- EV charging stations
- Community meeting and event rental space
- Additional amenities coming soon
From the Trail Center, you can easily connect to the Gitchi-Gami State Trail, Superior Hiking Trail, C.J. Ramstad Snowmobile/ATV Trail, and local routes leading to Black Beach, scenic overlooks, and other attractions throughout Silver Bay.
The new Silver Bay Multimodal Trail is managed by the City of Silver Bay and was funded by the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund through the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR), the State of Minnesota, the Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Board (IRRRB), and a Solar on Public Buildings Grant through the MN Department of Commerce.
See What's in Downtown Silver Bay, MN
When looking for things to do in Silver Bay, don’t miss Downtown Silver Bay! It has everything you need to make your North Shore getaway easy and enjoyable.
In downtown Silver Bay, you’ll find:
- Gas Stations
- Grocery Store
- Coffee Shop
- Restaurants
- Liquor Store & Lounge
- Bank & ATM
- Hardware
- Pharmacy
- Hospital/Clinic
- Local Shops & Services
- ATV / Car Wash
- Post Office
- Library
- Multi-Modal Trail Center with access to biking, hiking, ATV, and snowmobile trails
Find downtown Silver Bay just 1 mile from Highway 61. Turn onto Outer Drive at the stoplight in Silver Bay.
Climb and Zip at the North Shore Adventure Park
Now it’s time to head to Silver Bay’s fun family attractions. The North Shore Adventure Park in Silver Bay offers a tree-top adventure that’s perfect for kids, adults, and families.
This family-friendly attraction has high ropes courses, ziplines, climbing elements, and challenges for a variety of ages and skill levels. Younger visitors can enjoy the Lil’ Rascals course, while older adventurers can test themselves on elevated obstacles high above the forest floor.
It’s one of the most memorable things to do in Silver Bay for families, groups, and outdoor enthusiasts.
We recommend booking tickets in advance! Go to the North Shore Adventure Park website to learn more.
Insider tip: 2026 may be the last season for the Adventure Park! The owner is retiring and selling the business. Don’t miss out on this super fun experience! Book early for Summer 2026. Labor Day Weekend will be the last.
Play Putt-Putt at Black Beach Mini Golf
Another fun family activity in Silver Bay is Black Beach Mini Golf.
Play a round of mini golf on a very cute course that features North Shore-themed elements, family-friendly challenges, and plenty of opportunities for friendly competition.
After your round, grab a pizza, snacks, or refreshments and recap your game with family and friends.
On select Saturday evenings starting July 4th, play Glow Golf (with glow-in-the-dark golf balls) under the lights!
Insider tip: Order a Kettle River Pizza before you start golfing, and they’ll have it ready for you when you’re done!
Bike the Gitchi-Gami State Trail
After climbing at the Adventure Park and a round of putt-putt at Black Beach Mini Golf, grab your bike for an adventure on the Gitchi-Gami State Trail.
The Gitchi-Gami State Trail is a paved, non-motorized trail that runs from Silver Bay to Gooseberry Falls (one of 5 segments along Lake Superior). It offers some of the most scenic biking opportunities in Minnesota.
This link has information about the Gooseberry Falls – Silver Bay segment.
Insider tip: Park and use the restrooms at the Silver Bay Multi-Modal Trail Center.
Go Off-Road on the ATV and Snowmobile Trails
If you prefer motorized touring, Snowmobiling and ATV riding are other popular things to do in Silver Bay, MN. The area is a hub for ATV and snowmobile trails on the North Shore!
During the warmer months, ATV riders can explore miles of designated trails throughout the region.
During winter, Silver Bay transforms into a snowmobile destination with groomed trails connecting Silver Bay, Finland, Isabella, and other North Shore communities.
These trails provide access to remote forests, scenic overlooks, and memorable adventures! Explore the local area or connect with other trail systems along the North Shore and northern Minnesota. See the Silver Trail Riders Club map for details.
Insider tip: Park and use the restrooms at the Silver Bay Multi-Modal Trail Center.
Events in Silver Bay
When planning at trip to the North Shore, why not plan to attend a popular event in Silver Bay?
Silver Bay Music in the Park
You’ll love this outdoor concert series in downtown Silver Bay! It takes place on Friday nights in the summer.
Held in City Center Park, these family-friendly concerts feature regional and national musicians performing a variety of musical styles. Bring a lawn chair, enjoy the atmosphere, and spend a summer evening listening to great music just minutes from Lake Superior.
For an even more intimate experience, many featured artists also perform special House Concerts, which help support the free concert series.
Learn more about the Silver Bay Music in the Park Concert Series.
Insider Tip: Bring bug spray and a sweatshirt. Take the ATV Shuttle Ride from Black Beach Inn.
Explore Black Beach on Lake Suprior
When it’s time to relax, explore the Lake Superior shore at Black Beach in Silver Bay.
The scene at Black Beach is beautiful! Walk along the beach and the tall rocks. Dip your toes in the cold water if you dare! It is a great place to take photos and watch the sunrise and sunset (the views are both to the east and west).
Have a picnic or launch a paddleboard, canoe, or kayak. There are vault toilets and picnic tables available.
Black Beach is a black-colored sand-like beach made from taconite tailings (iron ore waste) that was discarded years ago from the nearby taconite plant. It creates a tombolo where you can explore an interesting part of the Lake Superior shore.
Insider tip – during peak summer, Black Beach can be very busy, so vehicle traffic and parking can be a bit of a cluster. During non-peak times, you could be the only one there. Note there are two sections of Black Beach Park. The last section has the iconic tombolo and black sand-like beach.
See the Panoramic Views from the North Shore Scenic Lookout
One of Silver Bay’s hidden things to do is to explore the easy-to-access North Shore Scenic Lookout.
Along this short hiking loop, you will enjoy epic views from three different points: an aerial view of the Cliffs Mining Plant (with an interpretive panel explaining what is happening inside the taconite plant), a panoramic vista of Lake Superior and Palisade Head, and a scenic overview of Silver Bay’s residential area and forests.
Where is the North Shore Scenic Lookout? From Highway 61, turn onto Outer Drive into downtown Silver Bay. Just past the North Shore Federal Credit Union, turn on City Shop Rd. Follow the blue Scenic Overlook signs. The road winds up a hill to the parking lot.
Insider Tip: The road to get there is not very obvious, but follow the directions and it’s easy!
Take the Scenic Route Through Finland, MN
If taking a scenic drive is on your list of things to do in Silver Bay, take the scenic route through Finland, MN! Just a short drive inland from Silver Bay, the small community of Finland, Minnesota, offers a quieter side of the North Shore experience.
The scenic drive through rolling forests and gently winding roads provides access to outdoor recreation areas, beautiful scenery, and the small, remote town of Finland, Minnesota. It’s a perfect detour for travelers looking to experience the authentic character of the region beyond Highway 61.
Find a couple of restaurants and a cooperative convenience store and gas station along the way. Access the remote Crosby-Manitou State Park, visit the Finland Minnesota Heritage Site, and see the statue of St. Urho, a Finnish-American hero.
Insider Tips: You can drive a loop from Silver Bay, to Finland, to Highway 61 in Little Marais. It’s lovely anytime of year, and especially during fall colors. See the route on our Things to Do Map!
Eat at the Four Seasons Restaurant and Bar
A highlight of the scenic route through Finland is getting a meal and a drink from The Four Seasons Restaurant and Bar.
This local favorite serves up the best hand-pattied flame-broiled burgers and fresh-cut fries on the North Shore! It’s also a go-to spot for a Friday Night fish fry or a broasted chicken dinner. You may even catch some live music on the weekends!
Find this family-friendly restaurant and bar is a hidden gem, just inland of Lake Superior and Highway 61 on the North Shore. You can also make it a destination while snowmobiling or ATVing in the Silver Bay area. Carry-out beer and liquor is also available.
Insider Tip: The Four Seasons Restaurant and Bar is a detour off Highway 61, but worth the drive for good food, local ambiance, and reliable operating hours.
Discover George Crosby Manitou State Park
While on the scenic drive through Finland, MN, find the remote and rugged George Crosby Manitou State Park. It offers some of the most remote hiking, camping, and backpacking opportunities on Minnesota’s North Shore of Lake Superior. Put this on your list of things to do near Silver Bay!
The park’s trails follow the scenic Manitou River through dense forests, rocky terrain, waterfalls, and quiet backcountry landscapes.
The park’s centerpiece is Benson Lake, which is great for canoeing, kayaking, and trout fishing.
Unlike some of the region’s more heavily visited destinations, George Crosby Manitou rewards hikers with solitude and a remote park experience. Expect a more primitive experience with no visitor center and vault toilet facilities. As always, plan to pack out your trash.
Check out our article on hiking and camping with kids at George Crosby Manitou State Park.
Insider Tip: It’s a 7-mile drive down a dirt road (Lake County 7/Cramer Rd.) to get there from Highway 1 in Finland. You may want to avoid it during muddy conditions. Pull up the map while you have cell service – it could get patchy.
Visit Tettegouche State Park
Explore Tettegouch State Park – it’s one of the most popular attractions on the North Shore! It’s located along Highway 61 just a few minutes from Silver Bay. Discover rugged cliffs, waterfalls, inland lakes, and breathtaking Lake Superior views.
Hike to High Falls, one of Minnesota’s tallest waterfalls, explore the 4 waterfalls of Tettegouche State Park along the scenic Baptism River. Venture out to Shovel Point for sweeping cliff-top views of Lake Superior. There are miles of hiking trails and year-round outdoor recreation.
Be sure to check out the Tettegouche State Park visitor center! It offers ADA access and 24-hour restrooms and vending.
During normal hours, the visitor center is staffed with helpful guides to provide park and area information. There is also a gift and coffee shop, a lodge-like lobby with a fireplace, comfortable seating, a rotating art exhibit, and an interpretive center.
Highlights for general visitors to Tettegouche State Park include:
- Hike to High Falls on the Baptism River
- Shovel Point hiking trail and cliff-top views of Lake Superior
- Lake Superior shoreline access at Baptism River mouth
- Scenic overlooks and photography opportunities
- Trails for hiking, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing
- Variety of tent and RV camping options
- Lovely visitor center that is ADA Accessible with a 24-hour restroom.
- Hosts free events and interpretive programs
Insider Tips: This is a great park with many beautiful views! The visitor center is a great midway pit stop for potty breaks, water fill-ups, and visitor information along the North Shore Scenic Drive. Expect heavy traffic during peak summer and fall color weekends. Pick up a free North Shore Explorer Guide at this location.
See the Cliff Top View from Palisade Head
After visiting the main part of Tettegouche State Park, drive about 1.5 miles west to stand on one of the tallest cliffs on Lake Superior! It’s a unique thing to do in Silver Bay, MN.
You’ll stand at the top of the 300-foot cliff for a panoramic view of Lake Superior and the adjacent shoreline. This part of the shore is so striking because of the rugged cliffs that plunge into the lake.
It is absolutely stunning to see! Walk around the top of the cliff to explore the landscape and the incredible views. As you might expect, the cliff wall of Palisade Head is also a popular spot for rock climbing on the North Shore.
Beware that there are no guardrails! It is a completely natural experience and could be dangerous if you’re not careful. If you’re an edge-looker, you’ll love this!
Palisade Head on Lake Superior is part of Tettegouche State Park. There is a narrow road to the top, which is open seasonally. The road is windy and can be tricky if you meet another vehicle, so driving is not recommended (the road was not intended for a lot of cars). However, there is a small parking lot at the bottom so you can walk up the road to the cliff’s edge.
Insider tip: I recommend avoiding this if it is busy, which is most likely during the peak summer season and fall color weekends. Yes, you can fall over the edge if you are not careful!
Stay at the Black Beach Inn by GrandStay
When it’s time to settle in, make the Black Beach Inn by GrandStay your basecamp for exploring the North Shore. It’s close to all of these things to do in Silver Bay!
Conveniently located off Highway 61, the hotel offers affordable rooms and suites, complimentary amenities, and an amazing pool area.
Families love the large twisty slide, kiddie pool, whirlpool, and games.
For even more fun and convenience, Black Beach Inn is within walking distance to Black Beach Mini Golf! It’s just minutes from Tettegouche State Park, Palisade Head, North Shore Adventure Park, biking and ATV/snowmobile trails, and many of the best things to do in Silver Bay.
If you want to check it out and book online, go to Black Beach Inn’s website.
Insider Tip: Black Beach Inn offers a discount to Duluth & North Shore Savings Pass members!
Plan Your Getaway to Silver Bay
Silver Bay makes an excellent home base for exploring Minnesota’s North Shore of Lake Superior. Spend your mornings hiking waterfalls, your afternoons relaxing on Lake Superior beaches, and your evenings enjoying live music or watching the sunset over the lake.
Before you go:
• Browse our Things to Do Map
• Build your itinerary with the Experience Builder
• Save money with the Duluth & North Shore Savings Pass
• Request your free North Shore Explorer Guide
Together, these tools help you discover attractions, lodging, dining, shopping, and experiences throughout Minnesota’s North Shore of Lake Superior.
This content is sponsored by Best of the North Shore (Silver Bay, Minnesota’s tourism association), as well as the participating businesses.
When is the best time to visit Silver Bay, MN?
Silver Bay is a year-round destination, with each season offering something unique along Minnesota’s North Shore of Lake Superior.
Visit in spring for roaring rivers and waterfalls! See our Guide to North Shore Rivers and Waterfalls.
Summer is perfect for hiking, biking, beaches, and live events.
Fall for spectacular for fall color tours – especially taking the scenic route through Finland.
Winter offers amazing opportunities for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and peaceful snow-covered landscapes. See our Guide to Winter Activities on the North Shore.
No matter when you visit, Silver Bay offers unforgettable scenery and outdoor adventures in every season.
