The Land of 10,000 Lakes is known for just that: its enormous collection of beautiful, sparkling lakes. But Minnesota has much more to offer than our bodies of water. Each of these lakes is surrounded by amazing natural scenery that is worth visiting on its own. Some lakes are surrounded by old forests so thick that light barely penetrates. Others have miles of tall cliffs and rocky shorelines. Still other lakes wash sandy beaches that make it easy to spread out and enjoy the scenery.

It is a sandy beach on Lake Superior that we want to introduce.. The Black Beach in Minnesota’s North Shore is unlike anything else in the state – and maybe even in the world. It’s otherworldly beauty looks like something from another planet, and everyone should visit at least once. Here’s what you need to know:

The black beach is known for the fine black sand that lines the shore of Lake Superior. Bordered by jagged cliffs and rock formations, it creates a unique oasis for anyone who visits. If you think other beaches are photogenic, they pale in comparison to the unusual beauty of this black sand beach on Lake Superior.

The black sand is not a natural occurrence. It’s the result of taconite – dumped into the water over the course of many years by mining companies – that wash ashore with the waves. The tiny pieces of this mineral have mixed with the sand to create an otherworldly phenomenon. Although the beach is not natural, natural processes have ensured that the minerals washing ashore are not toxic and okay for humans and pets to enjoy.

The sight of the black sand alongside the red cliffs and blue water and sky is unlike anything else in Minnesota. The combination of colors is primed for an artist’s palette. Speaking of cliffs, some choose to climb up to get a better view of the beach. The vantage point from above makes Minnesota look like a far-off island. The scrubby trees and bushes that decorate the rocks only add to the effect.

It can be fun to experience the beach from above, like this, and from below by walking with the sand between your toes in person. The beach has picnic tables for guests to enjoy during their stay. This is a great place to have a picnic as you take in the beauty of Lake Superior before you.

Nicknamed “Onyx Beach,” strand property is open year-round to visitors. There’s a campground less than a mile away if you want to stay close to this natural beauty. Black Beach is beautiful even when it’s too cold to picnic. Under a blanket of snow, the beach becomes a peaceful paradise. With no sound but the water, it’s one of the most relaxing places in Minnesota. It’s fascinating to see this stark black beach transformed into a white blanket under the snow.

No matter when you visit, you’ll be treated to amazing Lake Superior views. Though Black Beach is not naturally occurring, its beauty helps visitors appreciate Minnesota’s natural landscape all the same.

Black Beach is a gorgeous northern Minnesota beach that looks like something from another planet. Have you ever visited this fascinating place? What did you think? If you love exploring Minnesota beaches, you’ll also want to visit nearby Iona’s Beach, a “singing” beach that you have to experience to believe.

If you need a spot to hang your hat (or towel) while you’re visiting these incredible North Shore beaches, you won’t want to pass up this incredible lakefront log home vacation rental with 260 feet of private black sand beach on Lake Superior. It’s located between Iona’s Beach and Black Beach, just a few minutes from both, and you probably won’t mind the massive stone fireplace, three bedrooms, and incredible lake views from this gorgeous vacation rental option, visit Airbnb.