Hike Carlton Peak at Superior National Forest

Rating	★★★★☆(4/5)
Overall Difficulty	Moderate
Navigation Difficulty	Easy
Distance	3 miles roundtrip
Time	2 hours
Terrain	Strenuous climbing
Best Seasons	All
Family Friendly	No
Dog Friendly	Yes
Accessible	No

Highlights

Expansive views of Lake Superior
Hike a portion of the famous Superior Hiking Trail
Opportunity for challenging uphill hiking in Minnesota

Hike Summary

The hike to Carlton Peak, towering 924 feet above Lake Superior, will reward you with spectacular views of the lake and surrounding wilderness while giving you a chance to experience one small segment of the 326 mile long Superior Hiking Trail. While the hike is three miles long, most of the elevation gain occurs near the latter half of the hike -- this definitely counts as your cardio for the day. This is just one of many peaks of the Sawtooth Range that lines the North Shore and offers a great introduction to hiking in the Superior National Forest.

The trail starts at the south end of the Britton Peak Trailhead parking lot, and then crosses the road after a short walk through the forest. Follow the signs for the Superior Hiking Trail to stay on course as you meander through the forest. I particularly enjoyed the sections in the beginning of the hike where you must walk on wood planks -- the boards are narrow and makes for an interesting experience when someone is coming from the opposite direction. The beginning of the hike is mostly flat, allowing your legs to warm up after a long drive before starting the climb.

The climb itself is pretty gradual with a few switchbacks. Luckily, the trail is almost entirely shaded, which can be a relief on warm days. There is a bench after about a mile, giving you a chance to rest and drink some water. Do not feel ashamed for taking a break, especially if this is your first time climbing a mountain! Bask in the glory that is the view of Lake Superior (pictured below) once you reach the top.

The endless blue of Lake Superior from the top of the Carlton Peak

I also highly recommend that you take the side trail to the Ted Tofte Overlook after descending the peak. This rocky outcropping has no trees to obstruct your views -- they're even better than from the top of Carlton Peak. As shown below, you can also see how Carlton Peak rises above its surroundings, giving you pride as you say, "I climbed that."

View of Carlton Peak from Tofte Overlook

Looking at Carlton Peak from Tofte Overlook

I hope you enjoy this fun climb. If you thought this hike was fun, plan a trip to Eagle Mountain, the highest point in Minnesota. Let me know what you think in the comments section below, and be sure to use #nocoastbestcoast on Instagram and Twitter after your trip!

Important Information

According to the Superior Hiking Trail Association website, dogs on leash are allowed on the trail. This hike is definitely too hard to be family friendly, but there are plenty of alternative hiking options located along the North Shore for kids, especially in the Minnesota State Parks. Since this is along the Superior Hiking Trail, you can hike this all year, even in winter if your cold heart desires. Not many people hike this trail, even in the summer; I saw maybe 5 other people during my trip on a 4th of July weekend. Be sure to bring bug spray and extra water!

Directions

Carlton Peak is approximately 86 miles from Duluth. Going north on Highway 61, turn left on County Road 2 (Sawbill Trail) a couple miles outside of Tofte. Stay on the road for 2.5 miles, and the entrance to the Britton Peak Trailhead parking lot will be on the right.

Google Maps Directions

Parking, Fees, and Facilities

This particular route begins on Superior National Forest property, so no fee is required (note that other trails to the peak do require a fee). The gravel parking lot has vault toilets and a map kiosk.