Things to Do in Duluth in May
May weather, activities, events & insider tips
May Weather in Duluth
Is May Right for You?
Advantages
- Lake Superior reaches its warmest swimming temperatures of 7-10°C (45-50°F) by late May, making it tolerable for brave swimmers and perfect for kayaking without winter gear
- Spring wildflower bloom peaks along the Superior Hiking Trail with trilliums, bloodroot, and wild ginger creating spectacular displays that last just 2-3 weeks
- Tourist crowds haven't arrived yet - Canal Park and Gooseberry Falls have 60% fewer visitors than summer months, meaning better parking and shorter waits
- Fishing season opens for lake trout and steelhead, with charter boats resuming full schedules after winter layup and fish being most active in cooler water
Considerations
- Weather is genuinely unpredictable - you might experience snow, rain, and 27°C (80°F) sunshine all in one weekend, making packing and planning challenging
- Many seasonal attractions remain closed until Memorial Day weekend, including some lakefront restaurants, bike rentals, and tour operators
- Black flies emerge in wooded areas by mid-May, making hiking less pleasant without insect repellent and long sleeves during dawn/dusk hours
Best Activities in May
Superior Hiking Trail Wildflower Treks
May is the only month to see peak spring wildflower blooms along the 480 km (298 mile) trail system. Temperatures of 15-21°C (59-70°F) make hiking comfortable, and recent snowmelt creates seasonal waterfalls. The Oberg Mountain and Gooseberry Falls sections offer the best displays with minimal crowds.
Lake Superior Sea Kayaking
May offers calm conditions before summer winds pick up, with average wave heights under 0.6 m (2 feet). Water temperature of 7-10°C (45-50°F) requires wetsuits but creates dramatic steaming effects in cool morning air. Sea caves along the Apostle Islands are accessible without summer crowds.
Canal Park and Lakewalk Photography Tours
May's variable weather creates dramatic lighting conditions perfect for photography. Lake Superior ice formations may still be visible early month, while spring storms produce spectacular wave action. The iconic Aerial Lift Bridge operates on reduced schedule, making shots without crowds possible.
North Shore Waterfall Chasing
Snowmelt and spring rains create peak water flow at all North Shore waterfalls. Gooseberry, Split Rock, and Temperance Falls run at 200-300% of summer volume. Temperatures of 10-18°C (50-65°F) make hiking comfortable, and parking is readily available unlike summer months.
Steam Locomotive Scenic Railways
The North Shore Scenic Railroad begins weekend operations in May with restored 1940s coaches. Cool temperatures of 12-16°C (54-61°F) make the enclosed vintage cars comfortable while offering views of Lake Superior's dramatic spring conditions and potential ice formations.
Craft Brewery Trail Tours
May marks the release of spring seasonal beers at Duluth's 8 craft breweries, with maibocks and spring ales featuring local ingredients. Cool evenings of 7-12°C (45-54°F) make heated taprooms inviting after outdoor activities. Fewer tourists mean easier seating and longer conversations with brewers.
May Events & Festivals
Grandma's Marathon Registration and Expo
Late May brings packet pickup and expo for Grandma's Marathon (June race). The expo features local vendors, running gear, and previews the famous course along Lake Superior. Non-runners enjoy the energy and can explore marathon route by car.
Superior Hiking Trail Spring Guided Walks
Minnesota DNR and trail associations host guided wildflower identification walks throughout May. These free events showcase spring ephemeral flowers and include expert naturalist interpretation unavailable during solo hikes.