While it may have taken a 7 hour car ride with an excited dog and it may have rained more than once, I would definitely have to say this was one of my favorite vacations to date. Nothing quite compares to being surrounded by loved ones with such a beautiful landscape as the backdrop.

No matter how many times we drive up to Lutsen, Minnesota, the view always takes my breathe away. This was both Ethan and Gunner’s first trip up to the North Shore and while I can’t speak for them, I am glad they came. Our trip was full of early morning runs by the lake, kayaking the boundary waters, getting {sorta} lost in the woods, seeing beautiful waterfalls and in Gunner’s case, chasing waves. We slept just steps away from Lake Superior and let me tell you, I could get used to waking up with a view like that every day. This trip was definitely one for the scrapbook and the adventures we have are all ones I’ll remember for a lifetime.

If you haven’t visited the North Shore, I highly recommend it. We always stay at the Lutsen Resort in their Sea Villas and have never been disappointed. Lots of activities, like kayaking Superior, guided hikes, fishing instruction, paddle boarding, live music, bonfires and morning yoga, are all included too! It is also just minutes away from scenic hiking trails, the Superior National Golf Course and lots of various lakes for fishing, boating or kayaking.

Check out below some of my favorite images from the trip, including Gunner’s first experience with waves, family pictures and our trip up to Grand Marais!