Exploring Minnesota's Otherworldly Black Sand Beach

The Land of Ten Thousand Lakes is known for many things, but black sandy beaches likely aren't one of them. However, there is one majestic black beach tucked away in Minnesota, and here's how you can find it:

As the only black sand beach in Minnesota, you'd think this place would be on everyone's vacation list. But because of its hidden location, many of the state's own residents don't even know it exists.

credit: Mack Visual Films

According to Only In Your State, the Black Sand Beach lies in Silver Bay, Minnesota, which is about halfway between Duluth and Grand Marais.

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If you're traveling from Duluth on MN-61 North, be sure to make a pit stop at Split Rock Lighthouse State Park. It's about halfway between Duluth and Silver Bay and the view is absolutely breathtaking.

credit: Jeanie Marie via YouTube

The great thing about this black sand beach is that the waters from Lake Superior are typically calmer than in other parts of the massive body of water. This beach may be small but it's a genuine hidden gem in Minnesota.

Just how did Minnesota get a black sand beach anyway? Well, it's actually due to a large amount of taconite being dumped into Lake Superior years ago. When the taconite came ashore, it turned the beach black.

To find out more about this black sand beach, check out the article from Only In Your State.

Story Source: Only In Your State

Inside Minnesota's Largest Candy Store

I had been to Minnesota's Largest Candy Store once before, but they did some pretty cool things since the last time I was there. They added a bunch of superheroes, Star Wars stuff, and a candy band.

According to their Facebook page, Jim's Apple Farm is actually how the now huge candy store got its start. It is located in Jordan, MN and you can't miss it. It is a huge yellow building.

Even though candy is mentioned in the name, they have a little bit of everything. They have fresh baked pies and cookies and fudge. We walked in and it smelled amazing!

They also have the largest selection of sodas! Then there is chocolate and taffy and gummies and chips and puzzles and games. So much stuff!

They even have a Zoltar machine like in the movie, Big. I had to check that out. He told me the only helping hand is at the end of my arm. Gee, thanks Zoltar.

There were even crickets and worms! Not gummy worms, but actual worms.

They also have candy from all over the world!

The store is seasonal, however. November is their last month of operation for the season.

Gallery Credit: Natasha