Undulating gently, the shoreline at Iona’s Beach seems to hum underfoot—but these are no ordinary waves you’re hearing. When Lake Superior sends in the right-sized swell, salmon-pink rhyolite cobbles clatter together in a soft, bell-like chorus.
This 11-acre Scientific and Natural Area, designated to preserve its rare geology and ecology, occupies a fringe of Lake Superior north of Two Harbors. With lightly forested trails, a nearby basalt headland, and sparse visitor amenities, it offers a peaceful, interpretive experience guided by ancient geology and environmental stewardship.
Highlights to Discover
The beach itself spans roughly 300 yards of gently sloping shoreline paved in smooth pink stones—unusual rhyolite and felsite eroded from a billion-year-old volcanic cliff at its north end. Each stone settles under wave action, producing a subtle, tinkling melody that can catch visitors pleasantly off guard. It’s soft but memorable.
Iona’s Beach is named for Iona Lind, who fell in love with this spot in the 1930s while running Twin Points Resort. Her commitment to preserving the natural shoreline led to its designation as a Scientific and Natural Area. Her legacy lives on in both the name and the preserved condition of the site.
Short trails weave through pine, birch, and alder trees, leading to scenic lake overlooks. Interpretive signs near the parking area explain the geology, history, and unique conservation mission of this area.
Atmosphere & Décor
Iona’s Beach feels like a natural amphitheater: the open forest gives way to waves rolling over rosy-toned stones, backed by dramatic volcanic cliffs. It’s a quiet and elemental place—ideal for reflection, photography, or just listening to the sounds of nature.
There are no elaborate amenities or manmade structures to distract from the experience. A paved walking path from the parking lot provides easy access to the shore, but beyond that, nature is left to speak for itself.
Because of its protected status, collecting rocks is not allowed—emphasizing a leave-no-trace ethic that’s central to the SNA system.
Other Considerations
So how’s the price? Completely free. No parking fees or permits are required.
How crowded is it? Even in summer, crowds are modest. The space never feels cramped, and the lack of commercial development keeps things peaceful.
Parking & access: There’s a small paved lot near the Gitchi-Gami State Trail. The walk to the beach is short and mostly flat, though the beach itself is rocky and uneven—closed-toe shoes are recommended.
Hidden gems? Besides the musical stones, sharp-eyed visitors may spot tiny agates among the rhyolite. Birdwatchers may also find warblers, woodpeckers, and other forest dwellers nearby.
Iona’s Beach Scientific & Natural Area
📍 Off Highway 61, approximately 16 miles north of Two Harbors, MN
Website: https://dnr.state.mn.us
