Black Sand Beach: Unique Places to Visit in Minnesota
Did you know there is a black sand beach in MN (also known as Onyx Beach)? Located along Lake Superior, this black sand beach is unique & a great place to stop on your next trip to the North Shore!
Here’s everything you need to know about Black Sand Beach MN:
Where is Black Sand Beach MN?
Black Sand Beach MN is located in Silver Bay which is along Minnesota’s North Shore. There is no physical address for this beach but if you type in “Black Beach, Silver Bay, MN 55614” Google Maps will take you right to it’s location.
Or, you can use the Black Beach Campground address: 200 W Lakeview Drive, Silver Bay, MN 55614 & take a right at the end of the campground which will lead you down a gravel road to the Black Beach parking lot.
Why is Black Beach MN black?
It is black because of the taconite tailings that were once used as low-grade iron ore in mining camps across the shores of Lake Superior. Now, nature has restored itself while still retaining the black hue that makes Black Beach stand out from other shorelines along the North Shore.
You may even notice some of these mining camps as you travel along the North Shore. Minerals mined here helped build American industries into something great – but their use backfired when they contaminated one our most important natural resources: clean water.
Is Black Beach MN Open?
Black Beach MN, used to be privately owned & not accessible to the public until 2015. Now, everyone can enjoy this unique black sand beach in Minnesota!
Can you swim at Black Beach, Minnesota?
Yes, you can swim at Black Sand Beach MN. Despite being located off of Lake Superior, which is typically cold – this beach is unique because of it’s extensive bay with less depth. This allows the water to be warmer than most parts along the North Shore of Lake Superior.
Can You Walk Barefoot on Black Sand Beach?
Like any sand on a warm summer day, Black Beach can get very warm as well. Since the sand is more like very fine pebbles, I would recommend wearing shoes or sandals when it’s hot or even on a normal day if you have sensitive feet.
Onyx Beach MN
If you hear someone talking about “Onyx Beach MN” – keep in mind that they are talking about the Black Sand Beach in Minnesota.
Black Beach Campground
Black Beach Campground in Silver Bay MN offers a variety of sites to choose from. Whether you’re looking for electric only, full hook-up or pull through site options there’s an option perfect for guests who want their vacation experience at Black Beach campgrounds be as relaxing and carefree!
5 Things To Do In Silver Bay, MN
Other than visiting Black Sand Beach MN, here are 5 more things to do in Silver Bay, MN:
1. Get on the Water!
Whether you enjoy kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, scuba diving, taking a boat ride or going fishing – there are many options in Silver Bay & along Lake Superior.
2. Check Out the Gitchi Gami Paved Trail
This State Trail has been a huge success, with several segments in the works and more than 33 miles completed. It will be an 86 mile paved trail for non-motorized use when it’s complete! Right now, you can jump on the trail in Silver Bay & head south to Beaver Bay.
3. Take in the View at Palisade Head
This gorgeous rock formation sits right on the edge of Lake Superior. It stands about 300 feet above the lake and offers beautiful views surrounding both sides. While it’s surrounded by Tettegouche State Park, Palisade Head isn’t part of that park itself but can easily be accessed from trails within its boundaries.
4. Hike Some of the Superior Hiking Trail
The Superior Hiking Trail is very popular & can take you all the way to Canada if you are feeling ambitious! If you are like me, there are many great segments on the SHT that you can do a few miles or a day trip. Check out superiorhiking.org to learn more about the trails near you.
5. Explore Tettegouche State Park
If you’re a hiker, Tettegouche State Park is the place for you! With spectacular overlooks at Shovel Point and inland bluffs with the cascading High Falls of the Baptism River as well as trails that lead to lakes accessible only by foot, this park offers it all. It’s no wonder why hikers love coming here from miles away!
Overview: Black Sand Beach MN
It can be difficult to find black sand beaches in the United States, but Minnesota’s Silver Bay is home to one of them. You’ll also get breathtaking views of Lake Superior! Whether you’re looking for an adventure with your family or just want a relaxing day on the beach, we’re confident that Black Sand Beach will offer something special for everyone who visits. Have you been?
Looking for more things to do on the North Shore? Check out Top 25 – Best Places on the North Shore MN or take a look at Ultimate Minnesota Minnesota Bucket List: 45 Best Things To Do In Minnesota.