SZ

We're planning a visit to northern Minnesota in early September. Any idea how the bugs and the weather will be around that time?

Also -- any thoughts on the cabins at Tettegouche State Park? I know you have to hike in and that the cabins have no plumbing, and I'm OK with that.

Cali

The weather can be very nice in early Sept. The days can be anywhere from cool to warm and the evenings almost always will be cool. This is my very favorite time to visit the North Shore. The bugs usually aren't a problem at this time of year. I think the cool to cold evenings get rid of them. I don't know anything about the cabins at Tettegouche State Park, but the Park itself is pretty and it is fun to hike the trails along the river and lake. There are a lot of resorts and cabins, etc. not too far from that area which have all the conveniences which I'd prefer, but if you like to camp and rough it they would probably be fine. Also recommend that you stop at Split Rock Lighthouse. It is very well known and really fun to see. This whole area is very beautiful. The old lighthouse in Two Harbors has been turned into a B & B and I have heard from friends that it is a fun place to stay too. Don't forget to stop at Betty's Pies outside Two Harbors - it is a local landmark and has wonderful pies and food. We also love the Grand Marais Area. Lots of shops and restaurants and such a pretty little city - right on the lake with a beautiful harbor. Have fun!!

bookhall

We stayed at the Two Harbors Lighthouse B&B in September about three years ago. An absolutely great experience (lighthousebb.org .)

There are only three rooms, so reservations are recommended. There are a couple of rooms in a separate building, but I don't know if they're in regular use. The B&B is run by the Lake County Historical Society. They have someone come in and do breakfast--a decent spread--and there's someone around until suppertime. Then you're on your own. You--or someone--will need to take the flag down at sunset....

There's also a bridge from an old freighter on the property. The door's not locked, so you can go in and get a sense of what navigating a ship on Superior must be like--it faces out to sea. Got to be a great place to hang out during a storm!

We were in that area for a long Sept. weekend, and the weather was gorgeous! We, too, ate at Betty's Pies. And though we're in the minority, came away underwhelmed by the experience. Used to too many good PA Dutch piemakers, I guess....

ocwriter

Hi! I agree wholeheartedly with Cali... weather should be good in early September (though one can never predict these things), and the bugs shouldn't be too bad. I'm from Northern Minnesota originally, and it's a beautiful, beautiful place. So much to see up the North Shore. Have a great trip! -Cheryl

Cali

Just a quick note on Betty's Pies - they were owned by someone else (not Betty and not present owners) for several years until about two years ago and I also thought the pies were awful then, but they have gone back to Betty's old recipes and I think they are lots better now. Especially enjoy the 5 layer chocolate pie - it's to die for!!! I rarely like pie in restaurants (especially out here in CA) but do like them at Betty's.

SZ

Thanks, everyone! The weather sounds ideal and I'm glad the bugs won't overwhelm us. Two Harbors Lighthouse sounds excellent -- I think we might try one night there and two nights out in the cabin.

I'll report back on Betty's Pies (watch for my post in Sept. 2004). Hey, even bad pies are still pretty good.