Image of Northwoods Explorer

Northwoods Explorer

At the headwaters of the Great Lakes, enjoy a 2.5 hour adventure on Head of the Lakes.
Image of Northwoods Explorer

Discover the journey

Northwoods Explorer

Departs from Duluth, MN (-)

Enjoy approximately 2 hours onboard

At the headwaters of the Great Lakes, enjoy a 2.5 hour adventure on Head of the Lakes taking your group of up to 18 people on an unforgettable journey along the world's largest freshwater lake. Your trip begins at Historic Duluth Union Depot where your personal car attendant greets you. After you have settled in, your train departs and winds through downtown and along the Lakewalk - a nearly 8-mile paved pedestrian and bike trail stretching from Canal Park to Brighton Beach. Along the way, you'll glide through Congdon Neighborhood and nearby Glensheen Mansion, residence of the neighborhood's namesake (today, a museum open for public tours). As your train travels further east, it quickens its pace through the majestic northwoods of Minnesota. Keep an eye out for cargo vessels navigating Lake Superior along with the flora and fauna native to the territory. You will encounter many bridges - some exceeding 50 feet in height - crossing stunning streams and small rivers. Near Knife River, your train will turn and return to Duluth covering 32 miles on the roundtrip journey.

A variety of food and beverage options await you on Head of the Lakes. A booking agent will assist in selecting options best suited for your event.

Enjoy a complimentary gift bag as a token of our appreciation for riding Head of the Lakes. We hope to see you again!

Itinerary

  1. Duluth, MN
    Depart from Duluth

    Depart from the historic Union Depot in Duluth, also home to the Lake Superior Railroad Museum.

  2. Tischer Creek
    Tischer Creek Bridge

    Cross over Tischer Creek and get a glimpse at the Glensheen House mansion.

  3. Lester River
    Lester River Bridge

    Pass on top of the Rocky Canyon River just as it empties out into Lake Superior.

  4. Big Sucker Creek
    Big Sucker Creek Bridge

    Cross over Big Sucker Creek Bridge.

  5. Little Sucker River
    Little Sucker River Bridge

    Cross over the Little Sucker River Bridge.

Available departures

September 2026

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October 31, 2026

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