Looking for a quiet relaxing few days of getaway after a hectic summer. Have never been up the north shore - wondering what we'll find (just starting some research) and whether the third week of October will be too late (cold/things closed for season)?

It is a beautiful area, but at that time of year it will be pretty bleak looking because all of the leaves will be off the trees. I think the peak of the leaves is pretty much end of Sept. for that area. While you could have some nice days, I'm guessing it will be quite cool. Are you a MN resident? If so, that is MEA week and because the kids are out of school for a few days, there might be some things more booked up than you would anticipate.

That's what I was afraid of...'bleak,' for that time of the year. Thanks for the tip about the MEA though - good point to take into consideration.

We are also looking at the North Shore for MEA. Husband has a new car and wants to take a road trip. Where else is there to go in MN. that has some views?

As a lover of the North Shore I suppose I take exception to the word bleak in close proximity to the words North Shore.

I think that the words Majestic Grandeur actually fit better, whatever the season. There's always lots to do, winter is a busy time of year for the folks there, just about everything is open.

We go there in all seasons and it never fails to impress us. We were there last April after the lake froze from Duluth to past two Harbors, it was amazingly beautiful.

Where the ice had broken up and pushed up onto the shore the edges of it, 12" thick, were a vivid aqua blue color. When you touched it it broke into long daggerlike shards, absolutely stunning.

We were there in October this year after heavy rains - the waterfalls were amazing. Especially Gooseberry.

We were there last summer and when hiking the trails it was cool and verdant.

Bleak ? No.

Gorgeous ? Yes.

I agree with you Macsrus. We love it up there any time of year. We are looking forward to spending the Holidays in Grand Marais again this year. Hope they have snow then!!