Knife River Pull-Off

Exploring Knife River’s Waysides and Scenic Attractions

Nestled along the North Shore of Lake Superior, Knife River is a charming and historically rich stop just 20 miles northeast of Duluth. With multiple waysides, a full-service marina, scenic hiking trails, and one of the best agate beaches on the shore, Knife River offers a variety of opportunities for visitors to explore its natural beauty and unique history.

Knife River Wayside: A Gateway to Fishing and Trails

The Knife River Wayside serves as an important access point for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. Owned and maintained by the Minnesota DNR, this well-kept gravel wayside provides plentiful parking and an entry point to the Knife River fishing area. Though it lacks amenities such as restrooms and picnic facilities, it does feature a small interpretive sign detailing the Knife River Stewardship Project. Additionally, the wayside serves as a trailhead to the Superior Hiking Trail, offering an excellent opportunity for hikers looking to experience the North Shore’s rugged landscapes.

Knife River Depot: A Convenient Stop for Campers

Located nearby, the Knife River Depot provides essential facilities for campers and visitors. Unlike the wayside, this site offers restrooms, trash cans, and ample parking. While it does not feature picnic areas or interpretive signage, it is well-maintained and serves as a key stop for those passing through the area.

Knife River Beach Access: A Hidden Gem on the Shore

For those looking to enjoy Lake Superior’s shoreline, the Knife River Beach Access Area provides a secluded spot to take in the breathtaking scenery. This unmaintained area features a loose gravel and sand surface, a large loop parking area, and direct lake access. While it lacks formal amenities such as trash cans, benches, and trails, it remains a popular destination for agate hunting, rock skipping, and simply relaxing by the water.

Knife River Marina: A Hub for Boaters and Anglers

The Knife River Marina is a well-maintained, full-service marina providing direct access to Lake Superior. Originally built in the 1970s, it was operated as a private marina under Lake County ownership until the Minnesota DNR took over in 2001. Today, the marina is managed by Sailboats, Inc., ensuring safe harbor and essential services for boaters. With seasonal ADA-accessible restrooms and ample parking, it is a key location for those looking to set sail or embark on a fishing trip in search of Lake Trout and Coho Salmon.

A word of caution for boaters: storms on Lake Superior can create large waves at the harbor entrance, making navigation challenging in rough conditions.

The North Shore Scenic Railroad: A Unique Way to Visit Knife River

For those seeking a relaxed and picturesque journey to Knife River, the North Shore Scenic Railroad provides a unique travel experience. Departing from The Depot in Duluth, the train follows the Lake Superior shoreline, crossing scenic river gorges before arriving in Knife River. Seasonal rides include Picnic Trains, Fall Color Trains, and special holiday-themed experiences such as the Julebyen Express. More information on these train rides can be found at DuluthTrains.com.

Julebyen: A Celebration of Scandinavian Heritage

Every December, Knife River transforms into a festive Scandinavian Christmas village during the Julebyen celebration. This authentic Norwegian holiday market features handcrafted artisan goods, traditional foods, live music, and entertainment. Visitors can arrive in style aboard the Julebyen Express from Duluth and even take a whimsical ride on the Troll Train to Troll Canyon in search of mischievous trolls. This beloved event brings the community together and offers a charming holiday experience for visitors of all ages.

Public Hiking Trails and Agate Beach

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the well-maintained Knife River Recreation Council Trail, which winds through diverse forest landscapes and offers access to the upper Knife River. The newest extension includes a loop trail leading to a panoramic overlook of Lake Superior, making it a must-visit for hikers and nature lovers.

Additionally, the Knife River Agate Beach, located near the marina, is considered one of the best spots on the North Shore for finding Lake Superior agates. This pebble-covered beach is a great place to picnic, skip rocks, or simply enjoy the stunning lake views. While swimming is allowed, there are no lifeguards on duty, so visitors should exercise caution.

Local Favorites: Russ Kendall’s Smoke House & Great! Lakes Candy Kitchen

No visit to Knife River would be complete without stopping at two beloved local institutions:

• Russ Kendall’s Smoke House – Famous for its traditionally smoked fish, this North Shore landmark offers expertly cured ciscoes, trout, whitefish, herring, king salmon, and homemade beef jerky. A stop here is a must for anyone wanting to experience authentic North Shore flavors.
• Great! Lakes Candy Kitchen – This family-run candy shop is now in its fourth generation, specializing in handmade sweets crafted in copper kettles and small batches. From caramels to chocolates, it’s a delightful stop for those with a sweet tooth.

A Village Steeped in History

Originally founded as Buchanan in the mid-19th century, Knife River has a deep history of commercial fishing and maritime activity. The area has witnessed both triumph and tragedy, including the infamous sinking of the Benjamin Noble in 1914 during a powerful spring storm. The 239-foot steel steamer was no match for Lake Superior’s fierce winds and now rests beneath the lake’s surface near Knife Island.

Today, Knife River remains a cherished destination for those seeking a mix of history, outdoor adventure, and scenic beauty along the North Shore. Whether you’re hiking its forested trails, searching for agates on the beach, or savoring smoked fish from Russ Kendall’s, this small but vibrant community offers a truly memorable North Shore experience.