M. Sullivan Photography Landscapes, Photography, Weather

Aurora Borealis, Round Two

I learned a few things from my first experience with the northern lights.  Lucky for me, I was able to view them many miles from the nearest city the very next evening.  There were fewer clouds and I was better prepared with my camera gear.  The lights weren’t as intense as I had hoped, but still worth the wait in the dark.

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In order to have an open view to the north, Mike and I left the cabin that faces south and walked down a dirt road in the darkness to a small pond. We watched the northern lights together, but after they began to fade, he decided to walk back to the cabin and get some sleep.  I opted to wait and see if they would pick up again.  After several minutes, I heard a huge “kersplash” in the pond next to me.  It was followed by another large splash.  As amazing as the aurora was, I quickly gathered my equipment and walked briskly back to the cabin.  Perhaps just deer in the pond?  I will never know and it may be best to keep it that way.

M. Sullivan Photography Lake Superior, Landscapes, Photography, Photos, Vacation

Tettegouche State Park

DAY 3 (Part 1) – High Falls, Two Step Falls and the Baptism River

The High Falls of the Baptism River are the highest entirely contained in Minnesota. Pigeon Falls in Grand Portage are higher, but are part of the international border with Canada.  We opted for 100% Minnesota waterfalls and were not disappointed.  The falls are over 60 ft high and spectacular.

Over the river.

Across the bridge.

To the High Falls we go.

Enjoying the view.

After we enjoyed the High Falls, we headed back up.  Mike and Sophia went on ahead while I took a few more photos.

Far, far away are Mike and Sophia…

The Baptism River.

Next…Two Step Falls.
There were quite a few more than two steps to get there.

 

Complicated roots.

Local wildlife.

There was much more to see at Tettegouche State Park, but we needed to get on our way toward home. We made one more stop before reaching Duluth.
Next up…Split Rock Light House.

M. Sullivan Photography Lake Superior, Landscapes, Photography, Vacation

Devil’s Kettle Waterfall

DAY 2 (Part 1) – Judge C.R. Magney State Park

The most popular hike at Judge Magney State Park leads from the trailhead upstream along the Brule River to Devil’s Kettle, where the river splits around a mass of volcanic rock. Half of the river plunges 50 feet into a pool, while the rest pours into a huge pothole…the Devil’s Kettle.  No one knows where the water goes after it enters the Devil’s Kettle. Seriously. NO…ONE…KNOWS. (read more here)

Over the Brule River.

Through the woods.

You have arrived at your destination – Devil’s Kettle.

Devil’s Kettle and a rainbow.

To the falls for photos from above.

The Brule River just before it reaches the Devil’s Kettle.

Next, to the Upper Falls.

The long way back.

Up the stairs.

Down the path.

After we arrived back at our vehicle, we decided continue our journey to Naniboujou Lodge for a few photos by the shore of Lake Superior. We also spent a couple of hours in Grand Marais to enjoy the beauty of the harbor area and check out some shops . Look for DAY 2 (Part 2) soon.