How to Get a SHT Thru-Hike Permit
Walk 310 miles along the ancient volcanic ridge above Lake Superior—America's most accessible and rewarding long-distance trail.
Check SHT Thru-Hike permit availabilityFree
Permit Cost
2-4 weeks
Duration
300 miles
Distance
strenuous
Difficulty
About SHT Thru-Hike
The Superior Hiking Trail is a 300-mile footpath following the rocky ridgeline of the Sawtooth Mountains along Minnesota's North Shore of Lake Superior. From its southern terminus near the Wisconsin border to the 270-degree Overlook near Canada, the trail offers constant views of the world's largest freshwater lake. The Superior Hiking Trail Association, the nonprofit that maintains it, counts 300 miles of main trail and 41 miles of spur trail. No agency issues a permit for this trail, and no agency manages it end to end - it crosses national forest, state parks, state, county and municipal land, and more than 80 private properties, all by landowner permission. The SHTA states plainly that there are no reservations, fees or permits required to use its 94 backcountry campsites, which are first-come, first-served and expected to be shared. Two real obligations sit outside that, and both belong to Minnesota state parks rather than to the trail: state park campsites along the route must be reserved and paid for in advance, and a park sticker is required to park overnight at a trailhead inside a state park. The trail climbs to 1,829 feet and drops to 602 feet. The SHTA publishes no cumulative elevation gain for the route.
The Superior Hiking Trail represents decades of volunteer trail-building passion. It showcases the unique geology and ecology of the North Shore while providing accessible wilderness for thru-hikers of all experience levels.
The Experience
The trail is relentlessly rolling—a constant rhythm of steep ascents and descents over volcanic ridgeline. Through the trees, Lake Superior appears and disappears, its vast blue expanse a reminder that you're walking the edge of an ancient ocean. At night, the northern lights sometimes dance above your camp.
The trail begins near the Wisconsin border and climbs through the rolling terrain of the Sawtooth Mountains. For 310 miles, it follows the ridgeline overlooking Lake Superior, crossing countless rivers cascading toward the big lake. Eight state parks punctuate the journey, offering resupply and rest. The trail ends at the 270-Degree Overlook near the Canadian border, where it connects to the Border Route Trail for those seeking more.
What to Expect
Constant elevation change—'roller coaster' terrain throughout
94 backcountry campsites with no reservations or fees
Frequent water crossings on bridges and rocks
Eight state parks with developed camping options
Resupply towns are off the trail, not on it - the SHTA says reaching them means walking in or finding a ride
Heavy mosquito and tick activity in summer
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Permit Requirements
No permits required anywhere on the trail
No fees for backcountry campsites
Stealth camping prohibited—use designated sites only
Expect to share campsites with other groups
Campfires in fire rings only (when conditions permit)
Pack out all trash including food waste
No camping within Duluth city limits (use paid campgrounds)
Gear & Preparation
Required Gear
- •Water filter (streams are abundant but need treatment)
- •Rain gear (North Shore weather is unpredictable)
- •Layers (temperature swings are dramatic)
- •DEET or permethrin for mosquitoes and ticks
- •Trail map or GPS (many trail junctions)
Recommended Gear
- •Trekking poles for rocky terrain
- •Gaiters for wet conditions
- •Bear canister or hang system (black bears present)
- •Tick key or tweezers
- •Camera for Lake Superior views
Hazards & Safety
Black bears—proper food storage required
Heavy mosquito and tick activity May-August
Slippery rock and root-covered trail
Stream crossings can be dangerous after heavy rain
Hypothermia risk from sudden weather changes
Limited cell service except near towns
Almost no SHTA camping through the Duluth segment - the SHTA names one campsite at the Red River near the southern terminus and none again until north of the segment, which it measures at 54.7 miles from the Minnesota border through the city
Best Time to Visit
September to early October offers the best conditions—fall colors, fewer bugs, and moderate temperatures. Summer brings heavy mosquitoes and humidity. Spring offers waterfalls at peak flow but muddy trails and bugs.
100+ wilderness permits, extensive backcountry experience
This guide is based on personal experience obtaining wilderness permits and is regularly updated to reflect current policies and strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a SHT Thru-Hike permit?
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SHT Thru-Hike permits require advance reservations. Book online as soon as reservations open for your desired dates.
When is the best time to visit SHT Thru-Hike?
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September to early October offers the best conditions—fall colors, fewer bugs, and moderate temperatures. Summer brings heavy mosquitoes and humidity. Spring offers waterfalls at peak flow but muddy trails and bugs.
How difficult is SHT Thru-Hike?
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Aspiring thru-hikers looking for an accessible first long trail. Experienced backpackers seeking a well-maintained trail with regular resupply options.
What gear do I need for SHT Thru-Hike?
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Essential gear includes: Water filter (streams are abundant but need treatment), Rain gear (North Shore weather is unpredictable), Layers (temperature swings are dramatic), DEET or permethrin for mosquitoes and ticks, Trail map or GPS (many trail junctions).
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