If you’re planning a road trip from Duluth to Grand Marais, you’re in for a treat! This scenic drive through Minnesota will take you past some of the state’s most beautiful lakes and forests. In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know about driving from Duluth to Grand Marais, including the distance, drive hours, stops along the way, and the best driving route. So, buckle up and let’s hit the road!
Hertz
J.D. Power ranks Hertz as the best car rental company in North America, and for good reason. Their focus on customer satisfaction means you’ll have a great time renting from them – from start to finish.
Enterprise
Enterprise Rent-A-Car has locations all over the world, so they’re bound to have one close by. Plus, they offer a wide selection of cars – from economy to luxury – so you can find the perfect ride for your trip.
Fox Rent-A-Car
Fox Rent-A-Car is the perfect solution for budget-minded travelers. They offer low rates on all of our vehicles, so you can hit the open road without breaking the bank.
* With Expedia member prices, you could save 10% or more right now on thousands of cars.
Duluth to Grand Marais Drive
Driving from Duluth to Grand Marais is a scenic journey of approximately 110 miles (177 km), which takes around 2 hours and 4 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. To get there, you’ll need to take Minnesota State Highway 61, which is a picturesque route that winds along the Lake Superior shoreline, providing breathtaking views of the North Shore.
Along the way, you’ll pass through several small towns and communities, including Two Harbors, Silver Bay, and Tofte. These towns offer plenty of opportunities to stop and explore, with various shops, cafes, and restaurants along the way.
Duluth to Grand Marais: How far is Duluth from Grand Marais?
The distance between Duluth and Grand Marais is approximately 110 miles (177 km). The fastest way to get there is to take MN-61 E, which is a direct route that will take you straight to Grand Marais.
How far is Duluth to Grand Marais by plane?
If you’re looking to save time, you can take a flight from Duluth International Airport to Grand Marais/Cook County Airport. The flight distance is approximately 108 miles (173.8 km). The flight time is approximately 1 hour, but keep in mind that you’ll still need to factor in time for getting to and from the airport, security checks, and other travel-related activities.
What is the time difference between Duluth and Grand Marais?
There is no time difference between Duluth and Grand Marais, as both cities are in the Central Time Zone.
The Cheapest Way to Get from Duluth to Grand Marais
If you’re on a budget and looking for the cheapest way to get from Duluth to Grand Marais, your best bet is to drive. Renting a car is relatively affordable, and gas prices are also reasonable in the area. If you’re traveling with a group of people, it may be even more cost-effective to split the cost of the rental car and gas.
Duluth to Grand Marais Drive – Rent A Car In Duluth
There are several car rental companies in Duluth, including:
- Avis: starts at $70 per day
- Budget: starts at $67 per day
- Enterprise: starts at $71 per day
- Hertz: starts at $66 per day
Prices for rental cars vary depending on the type of car, duration of the rental, and other factors. However, you can expect to pay around $60 to $80 per day for a standard car.
Duluth to Grand Marais – Driving Stops Along The Way
There are plenty of stops to make along the way from Duluth to Grand Marais, whether you’re looking to stretch your legs, grab a bite to eat, or take in the scenery. Here are some of the most popular stops:
Gooseberry Falls State Park
Located just a few miles outside of Two Harbors, Gooseberry Falls State Park is a beautiful place to stop and explore. The park features several waterfalls, hiking trails, and picnic areas, making it a great place to spend a few hours or a full day.
Split Rock Lighthouse State Park
Split Rock Lighthouse is one of Minnesota’s most iconic landmarks, and for good reason. The lighthouse, which was built in 1910, sits atop a 130-foot cliff overlooking Lake Superior, offering stunning views of the surrounding area. The state park also features hiking trails, picnic areas, and a visitor center.
Temperance River State Park
Temperance River State Park is located in Schroeder, just a short drive from Tofte. The park features a scenic river gorge with several waterfalls and hiking trails, as well as picnic areas and campsites.
Grand Portage State Park
Grand Portage State Park is located near the Canadian border and features the highest waterfall in the state, the High Falls of the Pigeon River. The park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping facilities, as well as a historic trading post and a National Monument.
Lutsen Mountains
If you’re looking to hit the slopes or enjoy some outdoor recreation, Lutsen Mountains is a great place to stop. The ski resort features several runs for all skill levels, as well as mountain biking, hiking, and scenic gondola rides.
Grand Marais
Once you arrive in Grand Marais, be sure to check out the town’s many attractions. This quaint harbor town is home to several art galleries, shops, and restaurants, as well as a beautiful lighthouse and harbor. You can also take a stroll along the shoreline, visit the nearby state parks, or take a boat tour of Lake Superior.
Duluth to Grand Marais: Best Driving Route
The best driving route from Duluth to Grand Marais is to take MN-61 E, which runs along the Lake Superior shoreline and offers breathtaking views of the North Shore. The route is well-maintained and offers plenty of opportunities to stop and explore along the way.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, driving from Duluth to Grand Marais is a scenic and enjoyable journey through some of Minnesota’s most beautiful landscapes. Whether you choose to stop at the various small towns and communities along the way or take in the natural beauty of Gooseberry Falls State Park and Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, there are plenty of opportunities to explore and create unforgettable memories. With the convenience of car rentals in Duluth and reasonable gas prices, driving is also a cost-effective option for those on a budget. So, hit the road and enjoy the stunning views and charming communities that await you on this road