Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Elevation Gain
224.00 ft (68.28 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
2.10 mi (3.38 km)
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Day Hill provides excellent views of the rugged Lake Superior shoreline and is a relatively easy hike. The top of Day Hill is about 250 feet above Lake Superior. The hike to the top of Day Hill is a 2.1 mile long out-and-back trek in Split Rock Lighthouse State Park. There is a fee to enter the park; a day use or annual permit can be purchased at the Park Office. Dogs are allowed on this trail when on a leash. Parking for this hike can be found by the Trail Center.

Look for the Hiking Club signs to begin this hike. The hike starts on the Little Two Harbors Trail which is a wide crushed gravel trail that is near the shores of Lake Superior. The trail goes past a few cart-in camping sites and a shower building. Shortly after passing the shower building, take a right at the fork; look for the Day Hill Trail sign at intersection G. Up to this point the trail is quite flat, from this point on the trail is a gradual climb. After 0.3 miles, the trail meets the paved Gitch-Gami State Trail; take a left here to continue the climb to the top of Day Hill. It is 0.2 miles to the top.

At the top of the hill there is a stone fireplace that local lore says was built by businessman Frank Day (for which the hill is named) as part of a home for his soon-to-be wife. Well, she called off the wedding and no home was ever built. There is a short trail to the right that provides a spectacular view of Corundum Point and beyond. Split Rock Lighthouse can be seen through trees from the top; better views of the lighthouse can be had by going to some rocky outcroppings a bit closer to the lake. After taking in the breathtaking views, return the way you came or explore more of the trails in Split Rock Lighthouse State Park.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

State Park Day-Use Fee

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Scenic view of the Lake Superior shore.

Cons

May be crowded on the Little Two Harbors Trail.

Trailhead Elevation

623.00 ft (189.89 m)

Highest point

847.00 ft (258.17 m)

Features

Family friendly
Near lake or river
Historically significant
Geologically significant
Big vistas
Flushing toilets
Potable water
Lighthouse

Typically multi-day

No

Permit required

No

Location

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