October 1—Early Snow—October is a transition month in the Northland, where the climate swings from the warmth of summer to the cold of winter in a single day. Cold fronts are more robust, and wind and rain sweep the brilliant colors of autumn from the trees to the forest floor.This fallen maple leaf is backlit by the afternoon sun for one last show of glory before it rests.The changing seasons remind us that life cycles continue to move on, and our life here will end at its allotted time.The Faithfulness of GodThe Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. Psalm 23:1-6
October 2—Jay Cooke State Park—Jay Cooke is one of the most geographically interesting Minnesota State Parks. Ancient ground pressure pitched the St. Louis River bedrock formations to a 45-degree angle.The sound near the falls is loud, and you can feel the power of the water in your feet as you stand on nearby rocks.Combined with the beauty of autumn foliage, rushing water, and jaw-dropping rock formations, Jay Cooke State Park is a gallery of God's manifested glory.The Power of GodMay you be strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy... Colossians 1:11
October 3 - Autumn Afternoon at Split Rock Lighthouse - Autumn on the North Shore of Lake Superior is a prime time of year. For a few days in October, your senses are filled with incredible colors, the smell of autumn in the air, and the sound of birds and waterfalls. The season's first frost occurred in late September, which signaled the start of color change. The North Shore is now ablaze with the reds and yellows of autumn. Split Rock Lighthouse sits in the middle of this beauty and provides a perfect centerpiece for this view.Split Rock sits on a firm foundation, much like our faith in Christ, and His light guides our path.The Light of God!Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. Psalm 119:105
October 4 - Stuntz Bay Boathouse District - Hidden away at the bottom of a large hill near the Vermillion State Park sits a long row of 142 corrugated metal boathouses that line the shore of Stuntz Bay on Lake Vermilion's south coast. This row of boathouses forms the historical Stuntz Bay Boathouse District. Constructed between 1900 and 1955, the Oliver Mining Company offered the boathouses as an incentive for their workers, rewarding their employees for their commitment to the company and providing the opportunity for recreation and appreciation for the surrounding natural resources.The unique structures have been collectively placed on the National Register to connect to the local iron mines. The buildings and boat launch are privately owned on state land below the Soudan Mine.Fishing is essential in Northland, providing food and recreation for many years.The Provision of GodHe said to them, "Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some." So they cast it, and now they were not able to haul it in because of the quantity of fish. John 21:6
October 18 - October Buck - Hiding in the woods along Skyline Drive, a young buck stops to peek out at a passing stranger.Whitetail deer are prolific in the area and enhance the photographic opportunities across the region.If you look and enjoy nature, you might glimpse another fleeting beauty.Psalm 42:1 - "As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God."
October 5 - Roots - Gooseberry Falls The northern white cedar trees at Gooseberry Falls, also called swamp cedar, are commonly found along Lake Superior's shores and hills.The hardy cedar tree can grow in the crevasses of rocks and live more than 800 years, making it one of the oldest trees in North America. These incredible trees have medicinal properties; they are named "arborvitae" in Latin, meaning "tree of life." The Strength of GodHe is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers. Psalm 1:3
October 6—Daybreak at Palisade—The first light of morning breaks over Lake Superior as the clouds catch the light for a breathtaking display of God's created glory. Like the eyelids of creation opening to another day, the sun peeks over the horizon at precisely its appointed time.With the wide expanse of Lake Superior below and the immensity of the sky above, it's good to feel small in the hands of our creator.The Light of the WorldThis is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. 1 John 1
October 7—Country Cabin—One of the many old buildings scattered across Northland that remind us of our heritage.Now that we are approaching mid-autumn, the foliage is at or near peak color, and there is a memorable scene to photograph everywhere you look.The Glory of GodLet everything that has breath praise the Lord! Praise the Lord! Psalm 150:6
October 8th - Autumn in Jay Cooke State Park - Waterfalls are plentiful as the St Louis River travels through Jay Cooke State Park, located just west of Duluth, MN.Jay Cooke State Park's rugged land formations magnify the beauty of the hardwood forests. The river gorge, steep valleys, and massive rock formations throughout the park display the incredible beauty of God's creation.This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24
October 9 - Bridge Over Troubled Waters - The Lester Park Bridge, built in 1928, has stood firm for nearly 75 years. With constant October rainfall in the area, the river has swollen, and the fall foliage makes for a beautiful backdrop for pictures.Like the stone bridge in the picture, God is a steady foundation in times of trouble and makes a way across troubled times."When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you." - Isaiah 43:2
October 10 - Autumn Colors at Split Rock With the second week of October arriving in the Northland, the brilliant colors of autumn have now descended the North Shore slopes to embrace Lake Superior's shoreline. The gold of the aspen, greens of the cedars, and red maple trees embrace Split Rock Lighthouse like a warm blanket and highlight the beauty of this setting.O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory above the heavens. Psalm 8:1
October 11 - First SnowAs the first snow of the season blanketed the Northland, I couldn't help but notice a vibrant red maple leaf that had fallen and was now embedded in the snow. It stood out against the white backdrop, symbolizing the changing season. The leaf was a reminder that winter is just around the corner as the trees shed their leaves and the temperature drops. Despite the cold, there was a certain beauty in the contrast of the bright red leaf against the freshly fallen snow, making for a picturesque scene.And the seasons come and go, and so do the photo opportunities of life here in the Northland."For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted" Ecclesiastes 3:1-2
October 12—Autumn Watch—The golden aspen and birch reach peak brilliance in the second week of October. The trees surrounding Split Rock Lighthouse will soon shed their colors as more powerful cold fronts sweep down from Canada.Split Rock Lighthouse has watched more than 114 years of seasons come and go, standing faithfully on the high cliffs of Lake Superior.With only a few weeks left of autumn, take a walk and reflect on the past summer, anticipating the restful winter days ahead.For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived ever since the creation of the world in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse. Romans 1:20
October 13—Gale Warning—Lake Superior can pack a punch when the northeast winds pick up to gale force. Sheets of mist rise high into the air, topping the lighthouses at the Duluth Piers while residents flock to the shoreline to take in the incredible power of the big lake.The simple pleasure of being slapped in the face by wind-driven rain is a refreshing way to experience the changing seasons.While the power of nature is indeed a breathtaking spectacle, it pales in comparison to the awe-inspiring might of God, the creator of these very weather conditions.His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence... 2 Peter 1:3
October 14 - October at Palisade Head - Palisade Head is a little-known rock outcrop near Silver Bay, Minnesota, representing the typical beauty of the North Shore of Lake Superior. The stunning vista from this nearly 1000-foot sheer rock cliff displays the beauty of the Northland in any season, especially autumn. Located near Silver Bay, Minnesota, Palisade Head is a must-see for anyone venturing up the north shore of Lake Superior.Hear my cry, O God, listen to my prayer; from the end of the earth, I call to you when my heart is faint. Lead me to the rock that is higher than I, for you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the enemy. Psalm 61:1-3
October 16—First Light—Mid-October brings cool temperatures and clear skies to the Lake Superior Region. This October morning, Split Rock Lighthouse stands sentinel over Lake Superior as it has for over a century.As the eyelids of creation open to a new day, a beautiful sunrise resets our view of life and sets us on a firm foundation, much like Split Rock Lighthouse.This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness. 1 John 1:5
October 17 - Golden Landscape - The final color change of the landscape on the Duluth hillside is fully displayed as autumn sweeps through and begins its exit from the Northland. This scene from Barden's Peak along Skyline Drive captures the golden landscape's glory.Clear Canadian air has swept the area, offering a crystal clear view of the Northland from 800 feet up Skyline Drive.It just doesn't get much better than this, and it encourages me to get outside and enjoy autumn.Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever. Psalm 136:1
October 18 - Night Lights at Glensheen Mansion - Twilight hours at Glensheen present a beautiful estate view. Glensheen has some of the country's beautiful and intricate wood carvings and is worth visiting any time of year.Glensheen Mansion was built in 1905 by Chester Congdon and has been an area landmark since then.While God gave artisans the skills to build this remarkable structure, it hardly compares to the natural beauty of a simple flower.The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever. Isaiah 40:8
October 19 - Wave PowerA late October storm lashes out at the rocky cliffs along the Shore of Lake Superior. Crystal Bay near Silver Bay is a great location to observe the incredible power of the waves along Lake Superior. During this storm, you could hear the beach stones rolling in the waves along the shoreline and feel the vibration of the huge waves as they pounded the rocky shoreline.Watching the powerful blast of power against the cliffs is a humbling reminder of the elements in the hand of God.May you be strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy.; Colossians 1:11
October 20 - Sunset Reflections With the peak leaf color season now over and leaves blown away by wind and rain, mid-October's long, colorful sunsets seem more brilliant than ever.Even though the colors fade from the landscape and dark days lay ahead, there is hope in the brief period of light and color mixed in the sky at sunrise and sunset.So that those who dwell at the ends of the earth are in awe of your signs. You make the going out of the morning and the evening to shout for joy. Psalm 65:8
October 21 - Morning WatchA lone onlooker captured the incredible wonder of another sunrise over Lake Superior. So what motivated this person to get out of bed, drive to the canal, and walk out onto the pier on a cool October morning to observe an event that happens every day? Whatever it was, I'm sure his day started better than otherwise.Wherever you are, take a minute to view a sunrise or sunset and count your blessings; there may be more than you think.My soul waits for the Lord more than watchmen for the morning, more than watchmen for the morning. Psalm 130:6
October 22 - Starry, Starry Night Stars shine through the Northern Lights on a calm October night.The flowing auroras and twinkling stars combine with the Big Dipper at center stage for a mesmerizing scene. At the same time, the Calm waters of Little Caribou Lake reflect the heavens while a local pack of wolves harmonized their choir to howl a melody to our creator.When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon, and the stars, which you have set in place,what is man that you are mindful of him, and the son of man that you care for him? Psalm 8
October 23 - Dawn Early LightFreighters lay at anchor waiting for their turn to load grain in Duluth as a late October sunrise spreads warmth over Lake Superior.The vivid colors of the sunrise and the sounds of the water and seagulls are a sure way to start the day.It is incredible how God can mix the elements to create a scene like this.Yours is the day and the night; you have established the heavenly lights and the sun. Psalm 74:16
October 24th - Evening Reflection Evening clouds reflect into the waters of Caribou Lake.With colors fading across the northland, you can look to the sunrises and sunsets for brilliant, saturated colors. When reflected into calm waters, these colors double their beauty, creating a breathtaking sight.As in water, face reflects face, so the heart of man reflects the man. Proverbs 27:19
October 25 - Autumn FallsAs October draws to a close, the gentle, golden light and the whispering leaves stir memories of days gone by and the promise of brighter days ahead. Late autumn, a season of rest and reflection, is a precious gift.Near the Temperance River's headwaters, the shallow falls reflect the season with light and colors while the water's soft sound quiets the soul.Come to me, all who labor and are heavily laden, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28
October 26 - Superior PowerA 40-knot Northeast wind pushes the icy water of Lake Superior onto the lichen-covered rocks at Split Rock Lighthouse State Park. With the incredible power of the waves slamming the beach, the rocks held fast without a shudder.The powerful waves and strong winds were a wake-up call of how big our God is and how small we are.“There is none holy like the Lord; there is none besides you; there is no rock like our God. 1 Samuel 2:2
October 27 - The Edge of NightWith November right around the corner, sunsets come early, and the line of clouds in the scene is like eyelids closing history on another day.From the rising of the sun to its setting, the name of the Lord is to be praised! Psalm 113:3
October 28 - Aurora GlowStars shine through the Northern Lights on a warm October night as they reflect onto the calm waters of a northern lake.The lights are easy to see with the longer night of October, even during early evening hours.With the calm winds, you can hear the melody of the local wolf pack howling to listen to the echo on the distant ridges.And God said, “Let there be lights in the expanse of the heavens to separate the day from the night. And let them be for signs and for seasons, and for days and years, Genesis 1:14
October 29 - Blue Waves at Split RockIt was a chilly and sunny afternoon at Split Rock Lighthouse on the shore of Lake Superior. The waves crashed against the rocks, creating a soothing sound that blended with the gentle breeze. The lighthouse stood high on the rocky cliff, the same as it had for more than 115 years. It was a peaceful and serene moment that made me feel grateful for the beauty of nature and joy to behold such beauty.As I stood there, Psalm 93:4 came to mind, saying, "Mightier than the thunder of the great waters, mightier than the breakers of the sea--the Lord on high is mighty." This verse reminded me of God's power and majesty, who created the vast and beautiful Lake Superior and all of nature's wonders. It was a humbling and awe-inspiring moment, and I felt blessed to witness it.
October 30 - October Full Moon Rising The October "Hunter's Moon" rising behind the Duluth South Pier Lighthouse creates an incredible late-October scene.Like clockwork, the moon rose on schedule at its appointed place.It is amazing to observe the hand of God spinning the galaxies, stars, and moon in precise timing to show us who he is at any time of year.He made the moon to mark the seasons; the sun knows its time for setting. Psalm 104:19
October 31 - AurorasDuring the long nights of late autumn, it is not unusual to spot the Northern Light flaring up in the night skies.The mysterious phenomenon displays the green and sometimes purple light streaming across the sky in rivers of dancing lights as the Earth's magnetosphere excitedly reacts to solar storms hitting the Earth's outer atmosphere.Lift up your eyes on high and see: who created these? He who brings out their host by number, calling them all by name, by the greatness of his might, and because he is strong in power not one is missing. Isaiah 40:26
