The Duluth office of Kraus-Anderson completed a Trails and Landscape renovation at Split Rock Lighthouse in Two Harbors, Minnesota.
Designed by Quinn Evans, the landscape and trails rehabilitation returns circulation patterns to their historic locations with modifications for contemporary accessibility needs of the site, including a new ADA ramp into Dwelling #1, a precast boardwalk that follows the path of the original tramway, structural components and new fencing.
The site is a National Historic Landmark, thus work was held to high historical standards and extensive archaeological efforts directed by the Minnesota Historical Society. The lighthouse remained open to the public for the majority of construction, which began in May of 2025.
Split Rock Lighthouse is one of the most photographed and visited spots in the state, with a drama-filled history and breathtaking Lake Superior views. Split Rock Light Station was completed in 1910, and for half a century it oversaw the safe passage of freighters carrying freshly mined ore from Minnesota’s Iron Range. The State of Minnesota obtained the historic and scenic landmark in 1971 and transferred administrative responsibility for the 25-acre Split Rock Lighthouse historic site to the Minnesota Historical Society in 1976.
The historic core has been restored to its early 1920s appearance, a time when the isolated light station was accessible only by water. Each year, thousands of visitors stop at the lighthouse and visitor center to learn about the history of this Minnesota icon and take in the beauty of the Lake Superior shoreline. Split Rock Light Station was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 2011. This project was made possible by the people of Minnesota through an appropriation made by the Minnesota Legislature and approved by the Governor.
