July on the North Shore means one thing: wild lupine season. These dreamy blooms—tall, purple, pink, and occasionally white—dot the hillsides and trail edges like watercolor brushstrokes. If you’re heading out for a hike, here are six of the best spots along the Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) to catch the lupine show in full force.
🌸 1. Chester Creek (Mile 118–119)
Right inside Duluth, this trail section is a local favorite. Look for pink and purple lupine lining the creek crossings—especially magical after a rain when the water glistens and the flowers seem to glow.
🌿 2. Two Harbors Pull‑Off
This quick roadside gem offers a low-effort, high-reward burst of blooms. Park, take a short stroll, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by thick lupine carpets that roll down toward the lake.
🏕 3. Vista Campground Loop
If you’re overnighting nearby, the campsites at Vista Campground are dotted with lupine and white daisies—perfect for a golden hour photo op or morning coffee among the wildflowers.
🏔 4. Oberg Mountain Rise
This rocky section is a standout for tall, leggy lupine. The climb is worth it: you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views and blooms that tower above the trail.
🌱 5. McQuade Road Trailhead
A quieter access point to the SHT, McQuade’s early bloomers peek out from beneath lush roadside ferns. It’s a great choice for an early July wander before the heat hits.
🧺 6. Kirkside Picnic Area
Not hiking? No problem. Pull in, lay out a blanket, and enjoy a picnic with lupine blooms and Lake Superior as your backdrop. Don’t forget the camera—this one’s a postcard.
Lupine season is fleeting. By mid-July, many blooms start to fade—so lace up your boots, pack your picnic, and go chase the color. Snap a few photos among the flowers, then head back to your porch at Gitche Gumee with a cold lemonade and a full camera roll.
