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Top Minnesota Fall Getaways

Yes, summer is quickly approaching, and with it the rat race of families beelining towards beaches, theme parks, and resorts all over the states. We aren't saying you shouldn't join them- by all means, get out there and enjoy the fantastic weather however you see fit- but perhaps, a few months later, you'll consider the road less traveled. A fall vacation is guaranteed not only to be less crowded but also to provide sights, sounds, and experience that are otherwise impossible to have in the busy season. Whether you're going for a colorful stroll through the woods or simply sitting on a deck enjoying a cold drink, you'll undoubtedly be having a memorable experience at any of the following resorts.
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The North Shore has a ton to offer on a weekend getaway, and resorts and lodges have sought to capitalize on this for decades. But perhaps none have been as successful as Bluefin Bay.Offering a majestic view of... read more

The North Shore has a ton to offer on a weekend getaway, and resorts and lodges have sought to capitalize on this for decades. But perhaps none have been as successful as Bluefin Bay.

Offering a majestic view of sparkling Lake Superior, Bluefin Bay's rooms are cozy, bucolic, and elegant. When you aren't out on the lake, enjoy the dozens of amenities offered, including (but not limited to) in-suite wood fireplaces, whirlpool baths, and undeniable hospitality. Outside, go for a hike in the nearby Sawtooth Mountains or Superior National Forest. Just remember to tell 'em who sent ya!

Address

7192 MN-61, Tofte, MN 55615

Related activities

The resort lies 1.3 miles from Temperance River State Park and 8 miles from Lutsen Mountains Ski Resort.

Related Onsite Offerings

There's also an indoor pool, heated outdoor pool, sauna, spa and private beach with fire pits.

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2

Superior Shores Resort

Two Harbors, Minnesota

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+1 (866) 939 - 2504
A scant three hours away from the Twin Cities stands a resort that will make you utterly forget about the flash and splendor of the big city(s): Superior Shore Resort is a getaway that you'll never forget!All types... read more

A scant three hours away from the Twin Cities stands a resort that will make you utterly forget about the flash and splendor of the big city(s): Superior Shore Resort is a getaway that you'll never forget!

All types of rooms are available, from lodge and Jacuzzi rooms to spacious suites. Find your perfect match, then kick your feet up and relax in style and comfort. If you’d prefer to get a little active, get outside and experience the sixty wooded acres and 2000-foot pebbled beach for yourself. Amenities are plentiful and luxurious, including indoor and outdoor pools, hiking and cross country ski trails, and a pristine 18-hole golf course. Now pick your jaw up off the floor and make a reservation at Superior Shores.

Address

1521 Superior Shores Dr, Two Harbors, MN 55616

Highlights

Other amenities include indoor and outdoor pools, a sauna, hot tub, gym and boat landing.

Getting there

The resort lies 2.1 miles from downtown Two Harbors.

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3

Gunflint Lodge

Grand Marais, Minnesota

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+1 (866) 241 - 3983
Fall is the perfect time to visit Gunflint Lodge and its surrounding rich tapestry of oranges, reds, and yellows!A fall family getaway is just what the doctor ordered! Gunflint Lodge's perfect combination of... read more

Fall is the perfect time to visit Gunflint Lodge and its surrounding rich tapestry of oranges, reds, and yellows!

A fall family getaway is just what the doctor ordered! Gunflint Lodge's perfect combination of wilderness adventure and a little luxury will keep your family occupied with fun and relaxation through the duration of your stay. Step outside and enjoy the mild weather as you go on a hike, cast away for some bass, or relax on the shore. Meanwhile the cabins are exceedingly comfortable, with all having a fireplace in the living room, plus both queen and king sized beds, full kitchens, and private saunas (for when you really want to treat yourself). The hardest part of staying at Gunflint is working up the willpower to eventually leave!

Address

143 S Gunflint Lake Rd, Grand Marais, MN 55604

Extra Stops

The resort is also 11 miles from the Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center.

Highlights

Free amenities include bird seed and duck feed, hiking/snowshoeing trails, and use of a 16-ft canoe, kayaks and tubes at the waterfront.

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Northern Lights Resort, Outfitting & Youth Quest is as figuratively as long as their list of satisfied customers: really, really long. Here you can enjoy a family fishing trip on the pristine lake, build sand... read more

Northern Lights Resort, Outfitting & Youth Quest is as figuratively as long as their list of satisfied customers: really, really long. Here you can enjoy a family fishing trip on the pristine lake, build sand castles on the sun-soaked beach, and relax in a Jacuzzi tub, all in one day!

Welcome to the best waterfront oasis on the shores of Lake Kabetogama, Northern Lights. There’s plenty of beautiful wilderness to explore in fall-time Voyageurs National Park, in addition to a ton of fun to be had in the crystal-clear lake. Kids can or play around on the floating water park and you can cast away in what many call the best fishing lake in the state. The one-to-five-bedroom cabins offer plenty of space for families of all sizes, and are as cozy as ever a dwelling was built.

Address

10179 Bay Club Dr, Kabetogama, MN 56669

Highlights

Try frisbee golf, hiking and mountain biking, the game room, and the on-site convenience store.

Getting there

The resort is 31 miles from International Falls and the Canadian border.

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5

The Lodge at Giants Ridge

Biwabik, Minnesota

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+1 (866) 694 - 8030
Far into the deep north woods of Minnesota, northeast of the mining communities of Virginia and Eveleth, lies a spectacular, multi-functional four-season lodge. The Lodge at Giants Ridge, a three-hour drive north of... read more

Far into the deep north woods of Minnesota, northeast of the mining communities of Virginia and Eveleth, lies a spectacular, multi-functional four-season lodge. The Lodge at Giants Ridge, a three-hour drive north of the Twin Cities, is in the heart of the stunning Superior National Forest.

Besides the gorgeous Superior National Forest surroundings, The Lodge at Giants Ridge puts the entire Iron Range at your doorstep. The forest includes more than 3,000 rivers, lakes and streams, and an environment thriving with black bear, deer, and the rare gray wolf. You can even venture to the famous Boundary Waters Canoe Area.

Address

6373 Wynne Creek Drive, Biwabik, Minnesota 55708

Highlights

The Lodge blends the very best of Minnesota's great north woods with the very finest features and facilities. Whether you're visiting to golf, hike, or unwind, the Lodge at Giants Ridge is the Northern Minnesota getaway you've been dreaming of!

Related Onsite Offerings

Spend a relaxing weekend at Giant Ridge's magnificent spa. Laurentian Divide Salon & Spa offers massages, pedicures, manicures, nail care, and spa packages.

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6

Ruttger's Bay Lake Lodge

Deerwood, Minnesota

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+1 (800) 450 - 4545
The friendly arms of Ruttger’s Bay Lodge welcome countless couples and families each fall, and each leave smiling and satisfied. The cornucopia of colors and activities make for the perfect fall getaway!Whether... read more

The friendly arms of Ruttger’s Bay Lodge welcome countless couples and families each fall, and each leave smiling and satisfied. The cornucopia of colors and activities make for the perfect fall getaway!

Whether you’re into fishing, swimming, golfing, or just goofing around, Ruttger’s is the place for you. Since 1898, The Ruttger’s family have shown guests all the wonders that their lodge (and Bay Lake) have to offer. From the luxurious cabin accommodations to the untold charms of the nearby town of Deerwood, it’s a foregone conclusion that a stay here will be exceedingly memorable. Long story short, you’ll be glad you came to Ruttger’s.

Address

25039 Tame Fish Lake Rd, Deerwood, MN 56444

Highlights

All-day coffee, tea, and hot chocolate are free!

Getting there

Only 19.5 miles from Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport.

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7

Quarterdeck Resort

Nisswa, Minnesota

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+1 (866) 920 - 1237
Known far and wide as one of the finest resort properties on Gull Lake, Quarterdeck is an incredible place to spend a weekend, regardless of season. But it's perhaps at its most beautiful in the Fall. Don't believe... read more

Known far and wide as one of the finest resort properties on Gull Lake, Quarterdeck is an incredible place to spend a weekend, regardless of season. But it's perhaps at its most beautiful in the Fall. Don't believe us? You'll just have to see for yourself!

You and your party will be absolutely blown away by the resort's wealth of things to do and see. In Gull Lake's waters you'll find boundless enjoyment via the 10,000 acres of water sports playground with miles and miles of shoreline to explore. If it's a little too chilly for swimming, you'll have a blast (literally) skeet shooting or with some archery, available onsite! Gull Lake is also known as one of Minnesota’s best fishing lakes, renowned for it's Walleye and Pike. Meanwhile, parents will love the newly refurbished 12 lakeside Lodge Suites, as luxurious as they are rustic. Quarterdeck may have "quarter" in the name, but you'll have all the fun!

Address

9820 Birch Bay Dr SW, Nisswa, MN 56468

Related activities

The resort is less than a mile from winter sports at Ski Gull and 10 miles from downtown Nisswa.

Related Onsite Offerings

There are also basketball and tennis courts, plus hiking and snowmobiling trails.

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8

Timber Bay Lodge & Houseboats

Babbitt, Minnesota

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Located on Birch Lake near Ely Minnesota and the Boundary Waters, Timber Bay Lodge & Houseboats fulfills an important niche in the north Minnesotan resort ecosystem- that of a houseboat provider.Yes, the cabins... read more

Located on Birch Lake near Ely Minnesota and the Boundary Waters, Timber Bay Lodge & Houseboats fulfills an important niche in the north Minnesotan resort ecosystem- that of a houseboat provider.

Yes, the cabins are fantastic, but this fall why not have an incredibly unique experience and spend a weekend on a houseboat? You'll float along and enjoy beautiful views of Superior National Forest. Feel free to fish, swim, and relax to your heart's content as you cruise along beautiful 20-mile long Birch Lake. Adventure is the name of the game, as you can explore the forested shorelines, rocky islands, and sheltered bays unique to the area. Keep your eyes peeled for eagles, loons, and the occasional bear!

Address

8347 Timber Bay Rd, Babbitt, MN 55706

Highlights

The rental cabins can accommodate parties of two to 19 people!

Related activities

Nearby Giants Ridge golf course is well-known as one of the finest courses in Minnesota.

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9

Surfside on Lake Superior

Tofte, Minnesota

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Treat yourself to a little bit of luxury this fall at Surfside on Lake Superior, where the refined accommodations, warm and friendly hospitality, and gorgeous surrounding will enchant your senses and entrap your... read more

Treat yourself to a little bit of luxury this fall at Surfside on Lake Superior, where the refined accommodations, warm and friendly hospitality, and gorgeous surrounding will enchant your senses and entrap your mind.

The typically lush green forests of Lake Superior’s North Shore transform into a splendid assortment of colors each fall, and a stay at Surfside gives you a frontline seat! You could spend the entire trip enjoying the dazzling backdrop, but you’ll want to get in on the opulent relaxation that Surfside also offers. Your lakeside townhome is filled with modern comforts and amenities, while the friendly staff will pamper you within an inch of your life. When you think about it, there really isn't a decision to make: Surfside is the place for you.

Address

10 Surfside Dr, Tofte, MN 55615

Related activities

The resort lies 0.3 miles from Temperance River State Park and 8 miles from Lutsen Mountains ski resort.

Fun facts

There's even a free shuttle to Lutsen Mountains ski resort!

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10

Big Sandy Lodge & Resort

McGregor, Minnesota

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The Big Sandy Lodge & Resort has been a McGregor institution since it was built way back in 1902. Come and see why!That kind of longevity doesn't happen by accident- Big Sandy Lodge & Resort has a sterling... read more

The Big Sandy Lodge & Resort has been a McGregor institution since it was built way back in 1902. Come and see why!

That kind of longevity doesn't happen by accident- Big Sandy Lodge & Resort has a sterling reputation for stupendous hospitality and intimate lodging. When you combine that with the beautiful south shores of Big Sandy Lake and you have an ideal family and romantic retreat! While the surroundings are beautiful any time of year, it's fall when the colors truly shine. Whether you're observing via a kayak or hiking for a closer view, the orange, yellows, and reds of autumn or brilliant and exceedingly memorable. Whichever of the 18 rooms you stay in, you're going to have an unforgettable time!

Address

20534 487th St, McGregor, MN 55760

Related activities

The resort is on the edge of the Savanna State Forest and just 10 miles from the town center.

Related Onsite Offerings

Other amenities include a boat dock, a deck with lake views, and walking trails, plus activities such as fishing, kayaking and biking.

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11

Moore Springs Resort

Akeley, Minnesota

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+1 (866) 920 - 5724
You know the feeling you get when you find a $20 bill in your pants pocket? That initial surprise, swiftly followed by jubilation? That’s the same feeling that each and every guest enjoys at Moore Spring Resort;... read more

You know the feeling you get when you find a $20 bill in your pants pocket? That initial surprise, swiftly followed by jubilation? That’s the same feeling that each and every guest enjoys at Moore Spring Resort; they come not expecting much, and leave wanting to return.

Fall transforms the typically-green Chippewa National Forest into a eye-popping cornucopia of oranges, reds, and yellows. When you aren’t enjoying a leisurely stroll through the woods, there are plenty of activities to do, things to eat, and memories to make. Fishing, swimming, and canoeing around the crystal-clear waters of Howard Lake are always popular, while relaxing in your cozy room is a blessing. Just make sure you spend most of your time outside hiking in the Chippewa National Forest or biking the Heartland Trail or the Paul Bunyan Trail.

Address

5127 Howard Lake Rd NW, Akeley, MN 56433

Highlights

The resort features 1100-feet of beautiful shoreline!

Related Onsite Offerings

If it's camping you want, you can choose sites that are lakeside, or wooded on the upper tier of the resort.

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12

Lost Lake Lodge

Nisswa, Minnesota

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+1 (866) 786 - 9031
Lost Lake Lodge, an all-inclusive resort situated on two lakes in Minnesota's Northwoods, offers everything you need to have the perfect fall vacation.At Lost Lake Lodge, fall is a great time to explore nature and... read more

Lost Lake Lodge, an all-inclusive resort situated on two lakes in Minnesota's Northwoods, offers everything you need to have the perfect fall vacation.

At Lost Lake Lodge, fall is a great time to explore nature and witness the beauty of changing leaves. Take a hike on the nature trails that wind through ancient burial grounds or get out on the lake on a canoe, water bike, or kayak. The lodge rests between private Lost Lake and the Upper Gull Lake chain, making it a paradise for fishing. Lost Lake offers boats, fishing equipment, and bait, and can also arrange for professional guides to help you explore the Gull Lake Narrows. You can also visit downtown Nisswa for unique shopping, fine dining, and top-rated golf. Come back after a long day of fall activities and stay in one of Lost Lake’s cabins or cottages, all of which come with a variety of amenities including private decks, fireplaces, and stunning lakefront views. Experience a truly magical fall getaway at Lost Lake Lodge.

Address

7965 Lost Lake Rd., Nisswa, Minnesota 56468

Fun facts

Lost Lake Lodge is roughly 2 hours and 30 minutes away from Minneapolis.

Related Onsite Offerings

Lost Lake Lodge's on-site restaurant offers gourmet dinners and hearty breakfasts to keep you and your family satisfied throughout your stay.

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13

St. James Hotel

Red Wing, Minnesota

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When you hear “Red Wing”, you probably think of a cardinal, or the professional hockey team in Detroit; certainly not a south-Minnesota town that is home to one of the finest fall resorts around. But come for a... read more

When you hear “Red Wing”, you probably think of a cardinal, or the professional hockey team in Detroit; certainly not a south-Minnesota town that is home to one of the finest fall resorts around. But come for a stay at the St. James, and that’s exactly what will spring to mind from then on.

The St. James positively oozes luxury, from the gorgeous design of the building to the resplendent interiors of its rooms and suites. The surrounding area offers delectable fall-time walks, bird-watching, and bike rides, but if the weather isn’t being cooperative you’ll rest assured knowing that your getaway won’t be spoiled in the slightest. From its luxurious rooms to its to-die-for spa, a stay at the St. James is just what the doctor ordered this fall (or any season).

Address

406 Main St, Red Wing, MN 55066

Highlights

You're only two blocks from the Mississippi River!

Related Onsite Offerings

Other amenities include two restaurants serving local and American fare, an old-world pub, coffee shop, spa, and plenty of shops!

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14

Sullivan's Resort & Campground

Brainerd, Minnesota

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+1 (866) 850 - 1458
Located in scenic Brainerd, Sullivan's Resort is surrounded by a cornucopia of fir, ash, and maple trees. Come fall, they light up like fireworks!Sullivan's nine two-bedroom deluxe cabins, one three-bedroom, and... read more

Located in scenic Brainerd, Sullivan's Resort is surrounded by a cornucopia of fir, ash, and maple trees. Come fall, they light up like fireworks!

Sullivan's nine two-bedroom deluxe cabins, one three-bedroom, and huge Retreat Home are the perfect place for you and your family this fall. All have a hide-a-bed or futon for extra sleeping room, in addition to a deck with lawn chairs. If you think you'll be roughing it, you can think again, as each cabin features showers, bed linens, dishes, toaster, electric coffee maker, and cooking utensils. You'll be living like royalty in backwoods Minnesota!

Address

7685 Co Rd 127, Brainerd, MN 56401

Getting there

The resort lies 13.1 miles from downtown Brainerd.

Related Onsite Offerings

Guest laundry and a fish cleaning station are also available.

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15

Whaley's Resort & Campground

Ponsford, Minnesota

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+1 (877) 942 - 5397
Whaley’s Resort and Campground in Ponsford, Minnesota is the perfect place for your next fall family vacation.Located on Many Point Lake near Detroit Lakes, Whaley’s Resort and Campground is a great place for... read more

Whaley’s Resort and Campground in Ponsford, Minnesota is the perfect place for your next fall family vacation.

Located on Many Point Lake near Detroit Lakes, Whaley’s Resort and Campground is a great place for families to come and enjoy the natural beauty of Minnesota. At Whaley’s, guests will find a peaceful vacation with terrific fishing, well-kept cabins, and beautiful wooded grounds. Whaley’s offers 14 cabins and four villas, all with wireless internet, satellite television, and microwaves. In addition, their shaded campground has full hookups, a shower house, and laundry facilities. Families will never run out of things to do at the resort, with access to miles of trails, a sandy swimming beach, and kayaks, paddle boats, and canoes available for guest use. Kids will be delighted by the lodge with snacks and games, the playground, and the volleyball court.

Address

35974 Whaley's Road, Ponsford, MN 56575

Related activities

If you're interested in getting off the resort's grounds, check out the Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge to see animals like the trumpeter swan and gray wolf, hit the links at the Eagleview Golf Course, or catch a show at the Northern Light Opera Company.

Related Onsite Offerings

Guests interested in fishing can bring their own boat or rent one and get on the water to catch amazing fish such as Walleye, Bass, and Northern Pike.

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16

YMCA Camp du Nord

Ely, Minnesota

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+1 (844) 311 - 1591
For a quintessential Minnesota fall getaway, look no further than YMCA Camp du Nord in Ely.The camp is situated on Burntside Lake near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and offers miles of hiking and skiing... read more

For a quintessential Minnesota fall getaway, look no further than YMCA Camp du Nord in Ely.

The camp is situated on Burntside Lake near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and offers miles of hiking and skiing trails, as well as family and group programming throughout the year. Fall and spring reservations include the use of canoes, kayaks, and rowboats, making it easy to canoe or kayak across the gentle waves or head out for a day of fishing with the kids. YMCA Camp du Nord offers a collection of comfortable cabins, each with its own distinct style. Their 28 unique cabins are all impeccably furnished and equipped with modern amenities such as full bathrooms and kitchens, cozy living spaces, and screened porches. Cabin reservations include one visit to du Nord's traditional Finnish sauna during your stay!

Address

3606 N Arm Rd Ely, Minnesota 55731

Related activities

If you decide to go in the winter, enjoy miles of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails that offer the chance to explore.

Fun facts

Camp du Nord's mission is to strengthen families by providing opportunities for individual and family growth, supporting spiritual development, and enhancing environmental awareness in a wilderness setting.

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17

Golden Eagle Lodge

Grand Marais, Minnesota

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Golden Eagle Lodge is the rare resort that allows you to choose how close to nature you want to get. Whether you're living in luxury inside a cozy cabin, or "roughing it" at the campground, you'll have an... read more

Golden Eagle Lodge is the rare resort that allows you to choose how close to nature you want to get. Whether you're living in luxury inside a cozy cabin, or "roughing it" at the campground, you'll have an unforgettable experience!

This family-oriented, year-round resort especially shines in the Fall, when warm colors are above and crunchy leaves below. Golden Eagle's adjacency to Flour Lake gifts it a wealth of fun activities for its guests to participate in, from waterskiing to fishing. If you just want to appreciate the palette of colors, simply take a walk through Superior National Forest. As Golden Eagle are the only residents on the lake, guests can expect solitude and tranquility. Afterwards, return to your fully equipped, modern cabin or your tent/RV in the campground for a well-deserved nap. You couldn't have picked a better place to do it!

Address

468 Clearwater Rd, Grand Marais, MN 55604

Highlights

If you require handicap-accessible cabins, Golden Eagle offers two barrier free cabins, as well as other options for camping and boating.

Related activities

The lodge is located a mere two miles from the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness!

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18

BlueWater Lodge

Walker, Minnesota

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+1 (218) 547 - 2300
If you're looking for an ideal fall fishing location, you've hit Shangri-La at BlueWater Lodge!Whether you're a bright-eyed rookie or a seasoned fishing veteran, the Leech Lake area (and BlueWater Lodge) has it all!... read more

If you're looking for an ideal fall fishing location, you've hit Shangri-La at BlueWater Lodge!

Whether you're a bright-eyed rookie or a seasoned fishing veteran, the Leech Lake area (and BlueWater Lodge) has it all! The lake's irregular shape is packed with large and small bays and an estimated 201 miles of shoreline, giving the knowledgeable fisherman tons of opportunities to land the big one. In addition, the surrounding area is packed with hundreds of pristine Minnesota lakes of all sizes, providing excellent fishing for walleyes, pike, muskies, largemouth and smallmouth bass, perch, crappies and sunfish. Add that to BlueWater's sublime accommodations and you have a cant-miss destination!

Address

7051 Wintergreen Trail NW, Walker, MN 56484

Highlights

The one-bedroom loft lodge rooms have full kitchens, gas fireplaces, pull-out sofas, and washer/dryers.

Related Onsite Offerings

Boat rentals are available at a marina, and there's a boat ramp.

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19

Spicer Green Lake Resort

Spicer, Minnesota

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+1 (320) 796 - 3000
While Green Lake is gorgeous year-round, it truly shines when the leaves change color. Experience the ultimate autumn at Spicer!The town of Spicer is filled to the brim with craft breweries, miles of hiking and... read more

While Green Lake is gorgeous year-round, it truly shines when the leaves change color. Experience the ultimate autumn at Spicer!

The town of Spicer is filled to the brim with craft breweries, miles of hiking and bike trails, boutique shopping, and local events and festivals, so rest assured there will never be a dull moment during your stay. The resort is the perfect combination of luxury and affordability, letting you feel like royalty without breaking the bank. Go enjoy the great outdoors, relax by the cozy indoor fireplace, or take a dip in the indoor pool! Just make sure you take a walk around the lake to observe Mother Nature's incredible bouquet of colors!

Address

100 Lake Ave. North, Spicer MN, 56288

Population

The population was 1,167 at the 2010 census.

Fun facts

Spicer was platted in 1886, and named for John M. Spicer, the original owner of the town site.

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