Why Some Locals Prefer Wisconsin Point Over Park Point

We're approaching the hottest months of the year in the Twin Ports. Locals head to Lake Superior when they need to cool off, and the most popular spot is Park Point. If you're brave enough, you can jump into the cold, clear water of Lake Superior. Park Point and the Aerial Lift Bridge are at the top of the list for tourists visiting Duluth.

Recently, a visitor was asking about which part of Park Point Beach was public. The answer is that all of the beach is public, up to the high-water mark. You just can't cut through someone's property to get to the beach.

In peak summer, Park Point is full of locals and tourists, taking in the awesome views of the world's largest freshwater lake. We truly are lucky to be living here. Even if that means we have a very cold spring each year. (Our extended fall makes up for it.)

Here's a tip for tourists coming to the Twin Ports. If you like crowds and excitement, Park Point is the beach you want to be at. That's great for extroverts! But, if you're like me and enjoy a calmer, more serene experience of Lake Superior, it's worth checking out Wisconsin Point.

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Park Point Beach is much longer than Wisconsin Point. It's the largest freshwater sandbar in the world at 7 miles long. Park Point has houses lined along it most of the way. That's why fires on the beach are prohibited. If you start a fire on Park Point, it comes with a hefty $200 fine.

Read More: Can You Walk Anywhere On Park Point Beach?

Across the bridges, Wisconsin Point is a different experience. It's less busy, and it's lined by wilderness. There are several parking areas and walkways to get to the beach. It's less than half the length of Park Point, but it offers a quieter experience. And, if you want to have a fire on the beach, it's actually encouraged if you do it safely. Fires help clear up the driftwood on the shore.

You'll find fewer people and more personal space on Wisconsin Point, if that's your thing. There's also some great bird watching!

To get to Wisconsin Point, drive south on Highway 2 in Superior to the outskirts of town. Right at Superior's edge, turn onto Moccasin Mike Road and follow the signs.