Split Rock Lighthouse State Park - Two Harbors, Minnesota

Split Rock Lighthouse State Park

3755 Split Rock Lighthouse Road

Two Harbors, MN 55616

Split Rock Lighthouse is one of Minnesota’s most iconic landmarks, and its story is as dramatic as the cliffs it sits on. Built in 1910, the lighthouse was a direct response to a devastating storm in 1905 that caused 29 shipwrecks on Lake Superior, including several near the rocky shores of the Split Rock area. At the time, Lake Superior was a vital shipping route, especially for iron ore freighters heading from Minnesota’s Iron Range to ports across the Great Lakes. The lighthouse, perched on a 130-foot cliff, became a lifesaving beacon for sailors navigating the lake’s treacherous waters. Its Fresnel lens was state-of-the-art for its time, projecting light visible up to 22 miles away.

Life at the lighthouse was rugged and isolated. In its early years, the only way to reach it was by boat or climbing a steep set of stairs carved into the cliff. The lighthouse keepers and their families lived on-site, working tirelessly to keep the light shining, especially during the harsh winters when storms made the lake even more dangerous. Things got a little easier in the 1940s when the lighthouse was electrified, but by the 1960s, advancements in navigation technology like radar and GPS made it less critical. In 1969, Split Rock Lighthouse was officially decommissioned.

Thankfully, the story didn’t end there. In 1971, the Minnesota Historical Society stepped in to preserve the lighthouse and opened it to the public. Today, you can tour the lighthouse, visit the keepers’ quarters, and explore a museum that shares stories about the sailors and shipwrecks that shaped the region’s history. In 2011, it was recognized as a National Historic Landmark for its cultural and historical significance.

The lighthouse is also the centerpiece of Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, which was established in 1945. The park offers something for everyone, from hiking trails with breathtaking views of the North Shore to camping spots nestled in the woods. Whether you’re into history, nature, or just looking for a great photo op, Split Rock is a place where you can really feel the connection between the past and the beauty of Lake Superior. It’s no wonder visitors from all over the world come to see it—it’s the kind of place that stays with you long after you’ve left.