Miles Point Natural Environment Area protects a rugged lakeshore landscape on the north shore of Lake Superior, offering visitors pristine hiking trails, scenic views, and rich boreal ecosystems.
Miles Point Natural Environment Area is located along the iconic North Shore of Lake Superior in northeastern Minnesota. This protected area encompasses dramatic shoreline cliffs, dense boreal forests, and unique rock formations that showcase the geological heritage of the region. The area provides a critical habitat for diverse wildlife, including bald eagles, peregrine falcons, and a variety of migratory bird species. Miles Point features a series of well-maintained hiking trails that lead to scenic overlooks, rocky beaches, and secluded spots along Lake Superior’s shore. Visitors can enjoy tranquil walks amid white spruce, paper birch, and aspen trees, with the sound of waves enhancing the peaceful atmosphere. Although the area offers a relatively remote outdoor experience, it is easily accessible from nearby towns such as Grand Marais, making it a popular destination for day visitors and nature lovers seeking solitude and natural beauty. The history of Miles Point reflects the broader cultural significance of the North Shore region, which has long been inhabited by Indigenous peoples and later protected for conservation and recreation. Opportunities for wildlife viewing, photography, and exploring unique natural features make Miles Point a valued site within Minnesota’s extensive network of protected lands.
Overlook with expansive views of Lake Superior’s shoreline
Old-growth white spruce and cedar groves
Rocky beach areas perfect for shoreline exploration
Quiet, lightly trafficked trails ideal for solitude and birdwatching
A cliffside vantage point offering panoramic views of the lake and distant shorelines.
Dense stands of white spruce and cedar supporting native wildlife and plant species.
Unique exposed rock formations along the water’s edge ideal for exploration and observing lake dynamics.