Things to Do in Duluth in November
November weather, activities, events & insider tips
November Weather in Duluth
Is November Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak fall colors along Lake Superior's North Shore - maples and oaks reach 90% color change by early November, creating stunning 48 km (30-mile) scenic drives
- Northern Lights visibility increases dramatically - clear November nights offer 65% more aurora viewing opportunities than summer months due to longer darkness
- Shoulder season pricing drops 40-60% on accommodations after October leaf-peeping crowds depart but before ski season premiums kick in
- Perfect hiking weather with crisp 10-15°C (50-60°F) afternoons, low humidity, and fewer bugs on Superior Hiking Trail's 480 km (300-mile) network
Considerations
- Lake Superior water temperature drops to 4°C (39°F) - swimming and water activities become uncomfortable without full wetsuits
- Daylight shrinks rapidly to just 9.5 hours by month's end - outdoor activities must be planned around 7:30am sunrise and 5:00pm sunset
- Weather variability is extreme - temperatures can swing 17°C (30°F) in 24 hours, and first snow typically arrives mid-to-late November
Best Activities in November
Superior Hiking Trail Segment Hikes
November offers ideal hiking conditions with comfortable 10-15°C (50-60°F) afternoons, no bugs, and stunning lake views through bare trees. The trail's most popular segments like Oberg Mountain see 80% fewer crowds than peak summer. Morning frost creates magical ice formations on lakeside cliffs.
North Shore Fall Color Drives
Highway 61 transforms into a 48 km (30-mile) tunnel of gold and crimson. November's low-angled sun enhances color saturation, while bare lower branches reveal Lake Superior vistas hidden all summer. Peak color shifts from inland areas to lakefront by mid-November.
Aurora Borealis Photography Tours
November's longer nights and clearer skies create prime Northern Lights conditions. Duluth sits at ideal 46.7°N latitude for aurora visibility, with darkness beginning at 5pm instead of summer's 9pm. Lake Superior's frozen shoreline eliminates light pollution reflection.
Historic Duluth Walking Tours
Cool November weather makes exploring Duluth's steep hills comfortable, with 15°C (60°F) afternoons perfect for 3-4 hour walks. Fewer summer tourists mean better access to Historic Arts District galleries and clearer photos of iconic Aerial Lift Bridge without crowds.
Great Lakes Ore Boat Watching
November marks the final shipping rush before winter closure, with massive 300m (1,000-foot) ore carriers making last runs. Canal Park offers front-row seats to these maritime giants passing just 30m (100 feet) away, while cool weather makes standing on concrete piers comfortable.
Craft Brewery Trail Experience
Duluth's brewing scene peaks in November with seasonal releases like winter warmers and barrel-aged stouts. Cool weather makes brewery-hopping comfortable, while shorter tourist season means easier access to limited releases and brewery tours that book solid in summer months.
November Events & Festivals
Bentleyville Tour of Lights Opening
America's largest free walk-through lighting display featuring over 4 million lights along Duluth's waterfront. The grand opening typically draws 15,000+ visitors for the ceremonial lighting, live music, and first glimpse of elaborate themed displays including a 12m (40-foot) Christmas tree.
Northern Lights Festival
Local astronomy groups and photographers host weekend workshops combining aurora science education with practical night photography instruction. Includes guided viewing sessions at dark-sky locations 30-45 minutes from downtown, weather permitting.