5 Location Ideas for a Minnesota North Shore Proposal

You likely landed here because you’re planning to propose somewhere in along Minnesota’s North Shore or you’re looking for ideas for an engagement photo session. Either way, I hope you find something inspiring and helpful. 

Minnesota’s North Shore, even with its growing flow of tourists, I still consider to be a hidden gem of the Midwest. With rocky shorelines, dense forests, and of course the grandness of Lake Superior, there’s so much beauty to be enjoyed. It really is the perfect backdrop in the Midwest for proposals, engagement photos, or weddings/elopements. 

When planning a proposal, second to the ring selection, you’re faced with another big decision, where and how are you going to pop the question? Well I’m excited to share some location ideas for your proposal, highlighting some of what’s here right in my backyard!

Because I cherish really quiet and intimate moments, the locations I’m suggesting have nooks and crannys that can take “just a regular day exploring Minnesota’s North Shore” to a private escape, perfect for asking the big question. 

1. Pebble Beach at Split Rock State Park

While Split Rock Lighthouse is a well-travelled destination on most tourists’ list, Pebble Beach always surprises me with the space and privacy it offers during sessions and proposals. With the beach being an easily accessible location, just a minute or two walk from the parking lot, and a gorgeous view of Ellingsen Island, this proposal location doesn’t disappoint. It’s proximity to the Split Rock Lighthouse, and trail access-points to the beach, a “casual day exploring up the North Shore” is easily achieved to keep the surprise under wraps. 

Check out my gallery of Greg + Olivia to see more of Pebble Beach

2. Shovel Point at Tettagouche State Park

Another well-visited park and trailhead, yet you can easily find spaces away from the crowd for a private moment. This 1.2 mile hike within Tettagouche State Park is accessible to most people and has numerous look out areas and rock formations that overlook Lake Superior. This unforgettable location would be perfect for a picnic-themed proposal!

3: Crystal Bay Point Trailhead

Looking for something a little more exclusive with beach access? This location is ideal for couples who want a more private proposal experience. This trail is a short, but steep walk down to the beach, and is better suited for dryer times of the year. When you drop onto the beach you will find that you are cradled between bluffs and trees, cutting off access to other beaches.

4: Bear and Bean Lake at Tettagouche State Park

If you and your partner enjoy hiking or backpacking, this trail offers remarkable views, especially in the fall. This 7-mile hike is a segment of the Superior hiking trail and has first-come-first-serve camp sites to make your proposal experience a rich and memorable experience. Considered moderately challenging, the views are worth the effort. If you plan for a just a day hike, the main overlook of the is an excellent spot to pop the question and celebrate with a trail beer (or whatever your style is)!

5: Gooseberry Falls

I questioned including this one, but when all the pieces line up, this location is very accessible and too beautiful not to include. This series of waterfalls is a great option for your proposal, BUT keep in mind that during peak season this state park is busy and you should plan to do a little extra exploring for a private experience, if that’s what you value. If you plan to do a proposal later in the day, it’s much more likely that the visitor traffic will have slowed down, working to your benefit, because when the sun sets at this location, the waterfalls are extra dreamy.