The Northshore Earthscape |
the Northshore Earthscape by Bob Dvorak
The Northshore. The Northshore refers to the geographic
area of the northwest shore of Lake Superior that forms the eastern border
of Minnesota. It is the area around the cities of Duluth, Grand Marais,
and Two Harbors. As one takes the scenic drive down Highway 61, amazing
shoreline views, crashing waterfalls, and deep tunnels come into sight. The Northshore mainly consists of the area and landscape created by Lake Superior. Lake Superior is the largest of the great lakes with a surface area of 31,700 sq miles. With deep water averaging 483 ft. and 2726 miles of shoreline, Lake Superior is a great ecological treasure for the Northern Minnesota area. If you would like more information on Lake Superior or any of the great lakes, contact the Great Lakes Information Network. The Northshore provides many things for science and the public alike.
It is home to numerous research/learning stations such as the Wolf Ridge
Environmental Center and International Wolf Center. It is home to numerous
state parks, camp areas, hiking trails, and wildlife refuges. Lake Superior
also provides tourism with its resorts, tours, and outfitters.
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This area provides an environment that is suitable for diverse forms
of life. Moving along the Northshore, one can watch and see the landscape
and environment change from coniferous forest, to freshwater environment,
to river basin ecosystem. No where else in the world are such freshwater
resources found.
Exploring the Northshore can be one of the most exciting and exhilarating
experiences of your life. The trails are endless as they lead you to different
sites, sounds, and the elegancy of the region. Now take the time to get
a closer look at five distinct features and areas of the Northshore Earthscape.
