Split Rock Lighthouse State Park
Split Rock Lighthouse State Park has a rich history. The park is one of the most popular in the state, and many visitors come here to gaze at the lighthouse and the pristine waters of Lake Superior.
To fully appreciate this location, it is necessary to remember yesteryear for a moment and why and how the park came to be.
Why is Split Rock Lighthouse in this location?
Split Rock Lighthouse and subsequently the park itself is a product of a severe November, 1905 storm over the lake. The storm slammed many ships to their peril that horrible night including the Madiera which sank just north of the lighthouse’s present location. Construction on the lighthouse started soon after the storm of 1905.
Why Do They Call it Split Rock Lighthouse?
Although the lighthouse was first known as Stony Point, after the storm when pressing Congress to fund the lighthouse it was referred to as Split Rock and that has been it’s name ever since. The lighthouse got its initial $75,000 funding in 1907.
Remote Location Complicated Construction
Split Rock Lighthouse is a remote location, and in the early 20th Century no road connected Duluth or Two Harbors to locations in the woods northeast along what is today U.S. Highway 61.
So, materials for construction came to Split Rock via the lake and originally were pulled up the rock face via a steam hoist and pulley system secured atop the cliff. As one could image, there was risk and the process was arduously slow.
To reduce risk and speed up delivery of needed goods and materials, a new method of getting supplies atop the cliff was devised.
According the Minnesota Historical Society, in 1915, five years after the lighthouse became operational, a tram was built to aid in transporting needed materials to the light station.
Supplies continued to arrive by water until the first access road was built in 1924.
What does Split Rock Lighthouse Cost?
Visitors to Split Rock Lighthouse State Park will be amazed at the grandeur of this site. This state park definitely is worth the cost of admission. But unfortunately, the lighthouse fee itself is a bit pricey.
How Can I Save Money Going to Split Rock Lighthouse?
There is no getting around the state park pass ($35 annual), but you can get scenic distant views of the lighthouse for no extra cost or wander the grounds without going in the lighthouse for ($8). If you are okay with spending a bit more ($25 a person), we recommend going in the lighthouse at least once as you get to see the light up close and it is fascinating.
Below is a more thorough breakdown of the costs.
State Park Pass
As is customary at all state parks, an entrance fee (35.00 annual pass for vehicles or 30.00 annual pass for motorcycles; daily permits are 7.00 or 5.00, respectively) is required to enter the park.
Remember that an annual permit provides access to all Minnesota state parks for one year from the month of purchase, so it is the best deal if you plan on going to more than one state park.
If you want to see the lighthouse on the cheap without paying further, check out the “almost free” way to see Split Rock Lighthouse, as it only requires your state park pass.
Lighthouse Fees
A second fee is administered by the Minnesota Historical Society to view the lighthouse and tour the grounds. At the time of writing this there is a low ($8), medium ($12 adults, $10 seniors, $8 kids) and a higher cost option ($25) for a guided tour. Read on for details, as it can be a bit confusing.
Grounds Pass Fee (Less Cost But You Can’t Go Into the Lighthouse)
If you would like to save a few dollars, you might consider an option for a Grounds Pass, and this fee is $8. But keep in mind the Grounds Pass does not include access to the lighthouse
Regular Pass Fee
You get access to the whole grounds area, but without a tour guide. This also includes the museum and gift shop. You will enjoy wandering through the building that housed the fog horn machinery, one of the keeper’s houses and the lighthouse itself.
Keeper’s Lighthouse Tour
If you have the funds, the guided tour (the “Keeper’s Tour”) is great and includes a 60 minute lighthouse tour including lighthouse access. The cost at the time of writing this is $25 per person.
Small Children Free
Children ages 4 and under are free on both tours.
How Can I See the Lighthouse For the Cheapest Cost?
Viewing the lighthouse from the beach is very impressive. It also has the benefit of being almost free, requiring only a state park pass ($35/annual). The beach is a beautiful pebble beach perfect for rock skipping and exploring. As you meander closer to the lighthouse the pebble beach changes to large rock outcrops you can walk across.
Almost Free Lighthouse Views and Beautiful Pebble Beach Access
Split Rock Lighthouse State Park has a beach access near the campground that provides stunning postcard quality views of Split Rock Lighthouse overlooking Lake Superior.
When you see the iconic images of Split Rock Lighthouse perched atop a cliff with the water across the horizon far below, this beach is where those photos were taken.
This is perfect if you are not interested in direct access to the lighthouse or its grounds and would rather view the light station from a distance. This is the perfect way to see the lighthouse in a casual and low key way, without having to be concerned about whether you are getting your money’s worth.
Split Rock Campsite
According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Split Rock Lighthouse State Park has 75 campsites of varying type. Most campsites (88 percent) are geared toward family tent camping or seclusion (cart-in sites). There are five campsites that are wheelchair accessible. Two sites are specifically designed for kayakers.
Bicycle Trail Connections between Split Rock Lighthouse and Gooseberry Falls State Park
Cyclists will appreciate that Split Rock Lighthouse State Park is connected to Gooseberry Falls State Park along a paved trail that provides breathtaking views of Lake Superior.
The Gitchi-Gami Trail connects the two parks and is a great option for campers that bring their bikes to either park or other cycling enthusiasts.
The distance between the two parks is around seven miles, so the trip is easily completed by families and avid cyclists.
Take note however, some sections of the trail are hilly, so be ready to yield right-of-way to those traveling at a faster pace.
Come Enjoy Split Rock Lighthouse, there are options for every price range
When you come to Split Rock, you can anticipate enjoying a new adventure in the North Woods of Minnesota’s Arrowhead.
Split Rock Light Station amazes and the wide-open lake helps visitors realize the remoteness of this location for early mariners and lighthouse keepers on Lake Superior.
Come dip your feet in the icy waters of Lake Superior. Your favorite rock awaits your vacation musing.
