Duluth

Part of Superior National Forest, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area (also known as the BWCA), is an immense chain of lakes in north-eastern Minnesota that is extremely popular for canoeing, camping and fishing. With more than a million acres of pristine wilderness, it's no wonder the Boundary Waters is the most visited wilderness area in the United States.Visitors can hike through forests, and canoe along thousands of miles of water routes. No motor vehicles or boats are allowed in the park, and there are strict guidelines as to leaving the area as you found it. Combine this with the fact that you may explore for days without seeing another person, and it's easy to understand why the Boundary Waters is the perfect place to get lost in nature.The best time to visit the Boundary Waters come in the summer months (June to August), as summer temperatures are warm but rarely exceed 90°F (32°C). Entry points include Ely in the west, and Grand Marais in the east. Both towns have numerous outfitters where canoes, kayaks, and camping equipment can be hired. Note that camping permits are required.

Website : www.bwca.com

This 39-room Jacobean Revival mansion on the shores of Lake Superior is a popular attraction in Duluth. Managed by the University of Minnesota, the Glensheen Mansion is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The 7.6-acre grounds and carriage house can be explored at leisure, and the lavishly furnished interior of the house is accessible on informative guided tours lasting 60-90 minutes. A new attraction is the nighttime 'flashlight tour', which focuses on the lives of the servants of the house. Be sure to ask the guides about the various ghosts that are said to inhabit the mansion!

Address : 3300 London Road

Website : www.d.umn.edu/glen

Telephone : (218) 726-8910

Opening times : Opening hours vary according to season, check the website for specific dates.

Admission : Standard Tour: $15 adults, $9 children 6-12. Other tours and concessions available.

A popular tourist attraction outside of Duluth, Split Rock Lighthouse is located on the shore of Lake Superior, and was constructed following a major storm in 1905 that caused 29 shipwrecks. The lighthouse was decommissioned in 1969, and is now operated by the Minnesota Historical Society, who have restored it to its 1920s condition. The lighthouse offers tours and children's programmes, and has a gift shop.Its picturesque location in Split Rock Lighthouse State Park makes it a popular destination for hbicycling, cross-country skiing, and camping; both the Superior Hiking Trail and the Gitchi-Gami State Trail run through the park, making it ideal for hiking. Even for visitors who aren't actively-inclined, the beauty of the rocky shore has earned it a place on many postcards from Duluth and Northern Minnesota, and is a stunning place for a picnic.

Address : 3713 Split Rock Lighthouse Road, Two Harbors

Website : www.mnhs.org/places/sites/srl

Telephone : (218) 226-6372

Opening times : May 15 to the third weekend in October: daily 10am-6pm. Third weekend in October to May 15: Thursday to Monday 11am-4pm. Closed Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Admission : $10 adults, $6 children 5-17. Other concessions available.