Hiking may be one of the North Shore's biggest draws, but it's far from the only way to experience the beauty of Tofte and the surrounding area. Whether you're seeking relaxation, family fun or outdoor adventure, you'll find plenty of memorable things to do.
1. Join a Complimentary Bluefin Bay Activity
In addition to guided hikes, Bluefin Bay's activities program offers a variety of complimentary adventures for resort guests. Choose from sea kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, biking, craft classes, kids' activities and more. Be sure to check the Activities Calendar to see what's happening during your stay.
2. Relax Along Lake Superior
Spend time on Bluefin Bay's shoreline hunting for agates, skipping rocks or simply listening to the waves roll onto the rocky beach.
3. Bike the Gitchi-Gami State Trail
Bring your own bike or borrow one complimentary during your stay at Bluefin Bay. The paved Gitchi-Gami State Trail begins just across Highway 61 and offers scenic rides west to Temperance River State Park or east toward Lutsen.
4. Enjoy a Spa Day
Treat yourself to a massage, facial or other relaxing treatment at Waves of Superior Spa.
5. Play Tennis or Pickleball
Challenge friends or family to a match at Bluefin Bay's tennis courts or Surfside's tennis and pickleball courts. Complimentary rackets and balls are available for guest use.
6. Visit the Cross River Heritage Center Museum
Located just a few miles away in Schroeder, the Cross River Heritage Museum showcases the area's history, art and culture inside a beautifully restored 1929 Tudor-style landmark. Browse exhibits, learn about local heritage and stop by the artisan gift shop before continuing your North Shore adventure.
7. See Beautiful Waterfalls
The Cross River overlook is just a short walk from the museum and offers a scenic view right off Highway 61. Nearby Temperance River is another must-see stop, with multiple overlooks and waterfalls easily accessible from roadside parking.
8. Picnic Along the Shore
Pick up coffee, breakfast, lunch or dinner from Coho Cafe, then head to the Bluefin Bay boardwalk and enjoy a picnic on the rocks overlooking Lake Superior.
9. Tour the North Shore Commercial Fishing Museum
Discover the region's rich Scandinavian fishing heritage through exhibits highlighting the commercial fishing industry that helped shape the North Shore. The North Shore Commercial Fishing Museum is conveniently located near Coho Cafe on the east side of the Bluefin Bay property.
10. Explore Tofte Park
Take a leisurely stroll through Tofte Park, enjoy a lakeside picnic or admire the handmade cobblestone bridges built during the early 1900s.
11. Drive the Sawbill Trail
One of Minnesota's most scenic drives, the Sawbill Trail winds through the Superior National Forest and offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.
12. Golf at Superior National
Tee off at Superior National at Lutsen, one of Minnesota's highest-rated public golf courses, surrounded by spectacular North Shore scenery.
13. Shop Local
Browse apparel, gifts, books and locally made products at WatersEdge Trading Co., a favorite stop for visitors exploring the North Shore.
14. Ride the Lutsen Mountains Gondola
Visit Lutsen Mountains and take a scenic gondola ride during the summer for breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Superior, the Sawtooth Mountains and the surrounding forests.
15. End the Day Around a Campfire
Nothing says North Shore quite like an evening campfire beside Lake Superior. Join us on Bluefin Bay's beach for complimentary s'mores, cozy up by the fire and enjoy the beauty of the lake.