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Mine Lakes

Discover the allure of the Cuyuna Mine Lakes, a true gem in the heart of Cuyuna Country. With their crystal clear, spring-fed waters, with depths reaching 500 feet deep, they are truly a natural wonder. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone seeking a memorable escape, Cuyuna’s mine lakes offer an experience that lingers in your memory. It’s a place where adventure and serenity coexist, creating moments you won’t soon forget.

Natural Lakes

Tired of fishing amidst jet skiers and power boats? Experience the solitude on our natural lakes where walleye, northern and largemouth bass are the main targets. Don’t be surprised if you stumble upon slab crappies or big bluegills. Venture to larger waters for that trophy muskie. Launch your boat at the many public access points of the 22 natural lakes that are in the Cuyuna lakes area. If you are looking for peace and quiet, bring a canoe or kayak and relax on one of the many small lakes with limited access. Grab a map, locate a back road, and find your own “honey hole” on one of our tranquil lakes.

Upper Mississippi River

The nearby Mississippi River, with excellent populations of walleye and smallmouth bass, is navigable under normal conditions with a motorized boat, but some prefer to float it in a canoe or kayak. The stretch from Aitkin to Merrifield is both beautiful and rewarding. Catfish populations are booming, and muskies are present here with trophy-caliber fish available. Whether boating, floating or fly fishing, check with Oars-N-Mine bait and tackle shop in Crosby for lake and river conditions and the local fishing secrets.

Twocampgrounds:

GrouseCircle-14 sites (5electric&2pullthrough) bathhouse,twofamilyfriendlycabins thatsleep12people,and WoodchuckCabinfor soloorcoupleuse.

LoonPoint-12 rusticcampsites withdirect accesstoClearwaterLakeandascreenedpavilion.

Mountainbikers checkus out!Wehaveawidevariety oflodgingcapabilities. Pleasecallorcheckoutour website: Clearwaterforest.org

AWESOME ATV ing

Discover the thrilling world of ATV trail riding in the Cuyuna lakes area. With an extensive network of trails, you can embark on exciting adventures on four wheels. The Emily to Outing Trails, and Emily Blind Lake Connector Trail offer miles of fun right in the Cuyuna lakes area. In the Brainerd area, don’t miss the Southern Loop Trail, Pine Center Trail, and Mississippi River Northwood Trail. The Over the Hills Gang ATV club, a dedicated supporter of these trail systems, has meticulously planned and maintained over 72 miles of trails in our region. For more information and to join the adventure, check out overthehillsgang.org. Get ready to start your engines and experience the thrill of ATV trail riding in the heart of Minnesota.

Crosby Lofts

Discover the charm and convenience of The Crosby Lofts, located at both 30 W. Main Street and 102 W. Main Street, Crosby. With 16 distinct hotel rooms catering to a variety of preferences, there is a perfect option for biking enthusiasts, family getaways or business travelers. What sets The Crosby Lofts apart is their inviting rooftop lounge areas. Guests of The Crosby Lofts can relax, enjoy the views of Serpent Lake, and enjoy dining fare from either Rafferty’s Pizza or The Drunken Noodle, both located directly below the Lofts. It is also just a short ride to the Cuyuna Trail Systems and offers a private parking lot and 1,700-squarefoot secure biking storage room. There is onsite laundry available as well. Experience the comfort, style and ease of The Crosby Lofts during your Cuyuna Lakes adventure.

luxurious bathrooms and more, owners Jake and Meghan designed each space to exude coziness and enjoyment. Also included in the collection is a tiny house, located just two miles from the Sagamore Unit trails in the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area.

True North Basecamp

Discover the ultimate Minnesota outdoor experience at True North Basecamp, conveniently located right off of the Cuyuna Lakes mountain bike trails. Offering a range of accommodations from campsites to cabin tents and cabins, each equipped with essential amenities like fire pits, cooking grates and picnic tables, ensuring a comfortable and unforgettable stay. The prime location allows easy access to endless opportunities for exploration and fun. When it’s time to recharge, Main Street Crosby awaits with dining options and gear rentals right down the road. Whether you’re into biking, paddleboarding or snowshoeing, True North Basecamp is your go-to destination for adventure just moments away from the action.

Cuyuna Cabin Collection

Just minutes away from the bustling main streets of both Crosby and Ironton, Cuyuna Cabin Collection is a series of individually built cabins where adventure seamlessly meets luxury. Equipped with private yards with firepits, exceptionally comfortable living and sleeping areas, fully stocked kitchens,

The Sanctuary

The Sanctuary in Crosby, a former 1950s Lutheran Church transformed by owners Edgar and Stephanie Morales into an eight-room boutique hotel, seamlessly blends architectural preservation with modern comfort. The building’s original charm is preserved through exposed wood rafters, gothic windows and salvaged stained glass, capturing natural light. The Gathering Room, with 30-foot ceilings, a 42” fireplace and hardwood floors, serves as the heart of the hotel, complemented by a mezzanine with window seating, a kitchenette/bar, and a family-style dining table. The eight individually designed en-suite rooms feature large windows, offering a unique and inviting experience for guests in this distinctive and meticulously curated establishment.

RUTTGER’S BAY LAKE RESORT

In 1898, Joseph Ruttger initiated a tradition that has spanned over a century by opening a resort on the scenic shores of Bay Lake. The humble beginnings saw Joseph and his wife Josephine welcoming weary travelers and fishermen into their Bay Lake home, offering them a warm, home-cooked meal. This modest start laid the foundation for what is now recognized as Ruttger’s Bay Lake Resort, a cherished destination for families for more than a century. Today, Ruttger’s boasts a comprehensive lodge equipped with both indoor and outdoor pools, two distinguished dining establishments, Jack’s 18, a championship 18-hole golf course, as well as tennis and pickleball courts. Additionally, visitors can indulge in retail therapy at onsite shops or enjoy pampering services at the full service salon, all against the breathtaking backdrop of Bay Lake. Discover more and plan your stay by visiting www.ruttgers.com for booking details and rates.

Woodland Beach Resort

Nestled on the shores of the stunning Bay Lake, Woodland Beach Resort provides an idyllic retreat in the heart of the lakes area. The resort grounds include 20 modern cabins ranging from 1-4 bedrooms, all equipped with air conditioning, fully stocked kitchens, cable TV and wireless internet. Other amenities include a pool, a spacious hot tub, children’s playground, ping pong tables, horseshoes, tetherball, and basketball. Boats, canoes, paddleboats, kayaks, paddleboards, and pontoons are available. Or you can bring your own boat and secure it at their well-maintained docks. Visit woodlandbeachresort.com for more information and to book your trip!

Cuyuna Range Campground

At Cuyuna Range Campground, it’s all about enjoying the great outdoors! With a choice of 17 generously sized campsites, each measuring 40 feet wide by 60 feet deep, all set in a private, wooded lot, it is truly a secluded haven for your camping adventures. Each site is equipped with full water, septic, and electric hook-ups, and includes its own picnic table and campfire ring with grill attachments. Cuyuna Range Campground is a camping vehicle site only, with no tent camping. The 2024 summer season is open for reservations now. Visit cuyunarangecampground. com to secure your spot and prepare for an unforgettable outdoor adventure in the heart of Cuyuna!

Red Rider Resort

Whether you’re a fishing enthusiast, and outdoor adventurer, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat in the heart of nature, Red Rider Resort offers an idyllic getaway where you can disconnect and unwind. Offering unique stilt cabins and tent and RV camping sites all perched on the shores of Manuel Mine Lake, where you can cast a line from a non-motorized boat or the conveniently located dock right on the property. Manual Mine Lake is also a picture-perfect spot for swimming, kayaking or paddleboarding. If mountain biking is more your speed, Red Rider Resort is perfectly situated, with easy access to the Cuyuna Recreational Trails just a short ride away.

Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area

Offers numerous camping and lodging options. Three seven-person yurts, insulated canvas tents with wood floors and wood stoves, are available along the west side of Yawkey Mine Lake. Reservations may be made at mndnr.gov/reservations or 866-857-2757. A non-refundable fee is charged for each advance reservation but there is no reservation fee to reserve a campsite the same day. A total of 29 shaded and open, grassy camping sites are available at the Portsmouth Campground located on the northwest shore of Portsmouth Mine Lake. There are 18 electric and 15 non-electric sites available during the regular season. Four walk-in sites a short distance from restrooms, showers, swimming beach and mountain bike trails. Reservations are required at www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_ parks/self_service.html.

Cuyuna Lakes Stay

Located on Main Street Deerwood, only blocks away from the trailhead of the Cuyuna Lakes trail system, Cuyuna Lakes Stay opened in fall of 2022. Whether you’re here for a long stay or just a quick weekend getaway, Cuyuna Lakes Stay has everything you need to make your trip unforgettable. Their cozy and stylish rooms are fully equipped with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay. With their central location, you’ll be close to all the best attractions, dining and shopping that the area has to offer.

Mission Beach Resort

Located along the peaceful shores of Upper Mission Lake in Merrifield, Mission Beach Resort is a perfect spot for a cozy and laidback getaway. With nine charming cabins that each have their own, unique vibe, the resort is all about giving you a comfortable retreat surrounded by the beauty of nature. If you’re into RV adventures, they’ve got you covered with sites offering full hookups and stunning lake views. The fun doesn’t stop with warm weather-Mission Beach Resort is a year-round destination, ready to host your ice fishing adventures in the winter. Whether you’re looking for a quiet weekend or an action-packed fishing trip, Mission Beach Resort welcomes you with open arms and a warm, friendly atmosphere.

Camp Holiday

Imagine a perfect lakeside escape at Camp Holiday, where the cozy charm of 12 cabins, a spacious seven-bedroom reunion home and 40 campsites (six of which are lakeside!) await you on Turtle Lake. Whether you’re ready for a bit of fishing on two serene lakes or prefer kicking back by a crackling campfire with the soothing sound of loons, Camp Holiday has it all. Amenities include full hook-ups, water & electric options, swimming beaches, a game room, Wi-Fi, playgrounds and more. Dive into the Camp Holiday vibe, it’s your ticket to relaxation and fun in one beautiful lakeside package.

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Cykle

Located in Ironton just blocks from the Cuyuna mountain bike trails, Cykel bike shop offers a fun retail atmosphere, custom bike builds, bike rentals for hours of fun, and high-quality service to keep your bikes in working order. Inspired by the Swedish word for bike, Cykel has become a must stop for bikers and outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. They just so happen to be located a block away from The Hudson as well, making it a perfect location for you to have all you need for your ride.

High Wheel Confectionary And Coffee House

Located on the bustling main street of Ironton, High Wheel Confectionery and Coffee House proudly caters to the entire Cuyuna lakes area, establishing itself as the go-to destination for sweet cravings and unique gifts. As the premier candy and toy store in our area, their offerings include a huge selection of candy, over 100 flavors of bottled soda, gourmet popcorn that is popped on-site, a diverse range of fudge, truffle and chocolate flavors and a gourmet coffee bar. A charming toy store and comfortable lounge area that is available for hosting gatherings complete the experience, inviting you to step into a delightful blend of nostalgia and modern delights.

Red Threads

From original designs to custom apparel featuring iconic local themes like Cuyuna Recreation Area, C-I Rangers, Cuyuna Lakes Mountain Bike Team and Lightning Hockey, Red Threads caters to a variety of tastes. Specializing in personalized orders, they take pride in offering custom embroidery, screen printing and promotional items for individuals and businesses alike — no order is too big or small! Elevating their services, they also offer professional graphic design services, bringing 20-plus years of experience to create compelling identities, marketing materials and custom apparel for your company or brand.

Common Goods

Common Goods, a stylish thrift store owned by Bridges of Hope, offers an array of highquality items at affordable prices, ranging from clothing and fashion accessories to distinctive home furnishings and furniture pieces. With locations in Crosby as well as Baxter and Crosslake, the store serves as a community hub, encouraging residents to contribute their time, talents and treasures in support of the Bridges of Hope initiatives. Committed to environmental sustainability, Common Goods actively recycles and redistributes goods within the local community, mitigating landfill waste. By keeping local donations with the community, the store ensures proceeds directly benefit local families in need, making it a socially responsible and environmentally conscious retail space with a significant impact on both the community and environment.

Cranberries On Main

Cranberries on Main is a unique gift shop located inside of Guidepoint Pharmacy on Main Street Crosby. They offer a wide variety of shopping options, including home décor, specialty gifts, candles, jewelry, and a wide selection of cards for any occasion. Shopping for that perfect gift? Cranberries on Main is a must stop!

Lakes Country Curio

Lakes Country Curio has a large variety of products, clothing, footwear and lake and northwoods decor. They carry great gifts for family and friends, including candles, jewelry, and bath and body. “Curio” is a derivative of “Curious,” so they offer a large variety of items that provides a unique place to find that perfect gift or remembrance from a trip, from top name brands like Keen, Skechers, Smartwool and Huk to products produced in Minnesota and the Upper Midwest. The Curio name is well-established in the area with two more locations in Aitkin and Garrison.

Victual And Rave Creamworks

Victual on Main Street in Crosby is a truly exceptional shopping destination, offering a diverse and special experience that sets it apart. With a 2 ½ times larger retail space, the shop provides a unique blend of products, from an impressive cheese and cured meat selection to a wide array of pantry staples, snacks, and beverages. The inclusion of Rave Creamworks, an on-site lactose-free ice cream experience with rotating unique flavors, adds an extra layer of delight. The commitment to catering to various preferences and dietary needs, coupled with the expansion into an adjacent building, reflects a dedication to enhancing the overall customer experience. Victual is not just a shop; it’s a culinary adventure waiting to be explored.

Cuyuna Outfitters

Open in 2022, Cuyuna Outfitters stands as a premier outdoor gear and apparel retail store in the heart of downtown Crosby. This well-curated establishment caters to a diverse clientele, welcoming both avid outdoor enthusiasts and those with a penchant for a more “indoorsy” lifestyle. The store boasts a collection of high-quality outdoor gear and apparel, featuring both established brands and emerging labels that prioritize sustainability and eco-conscious practices. Noteworthy is their pride in showcasing Minnesota made products and supporting brands aligned with social efforts or benefiting outdoor programs and military veterans. Beyond the store, Cuyuna Outfitters enriches the outdoor experience by offering daily rentals of kayaks, glass-bottomed kayaks, paddleboards and snowshoes, inviting customers to not only shop, but to actively engage in outdoor adventures.

tion and storage services, groceries, off-sale liquor, and live bait. Rely on Hansen Sports to make your living and vacationing on Bay Lake enjoyable year-round.

Nord Hus Scandinavian Goods

An established importer of goods from Norway and Scandinavia, Nord Hus Scandinavian Goods has joined the Cuyuna lakes community with their storefront at 28 W. Main Street in Crosby, in the beautifully restored Hallett Building. Offering the perfect opportunity to shop their unique selection of specialty goods, you can explore and appreciate the distinct products sourced from Scandinavia.

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