Things to Do in Lutsen in the Summer | Things to do in Lutsen in the Winter
Alpine Slide
Located just a few minutes walk toward the ski hill, the alpine slide provides an exciting half-mile run as it dips and swerves down from the summit of Eagle Mountain. This is fun for all ages!
Biking
The Gitchi-Gami paved trail makes excellent biking and can be accessed approximately one mile west on Hwy 61. Single track trails are a recent development and miles of back-woods roads also make great riding. Bike rentals are available at Sawtooth Outfitters in Tofte. (663-7643) Visit the Activities Kiosk for maps.
Canoe Daytrips or Outfitting
Sawbill Outfitters, located on Sawbill Lake (663-7150), will outfit you for a day trip or a multi-day trip. The Kelso Loop is a fabulous day-paddle in the BWCA. Sawtooth Outfitters (663-7643), located in Tofte, also rents kayaks, canoes and provides outfitting.
Charter Fishing
The nearest charter fishing on Lake Superior is Tofte Charters at 663-9932. Additional charter fishing companies are located in Grand Marais.
Day Trips-Local
Culture & History
The area is rich culturally and historically. You can explore Native Ojibwa history, the Voyageurs who travelled through the area, the fishing, logging and trapping culture which came to the area in the late 1800's and the early lodging business at a variety of museums.
Dining
This area has a fabulous assortment of dining options. Both Papa Charlies and Moguls (across the road) are within walking distance. A couple minute drive gets you to fabulous lakeside dining at Lutsen Resort's lakeside historic lodge dining room or their Poplar River Pub.
Fall Color Touring
Brilliant maple reds, golden aspen yellows, and the rust shades of tamarack provide a fall color palette unique to the Lutsen area. Local forest service roads provide access to the interior of Superior National Forest and a well marked fall color tour is available. Watch for moose in the swampy areas. Check conditions at the Forest Service's Fall Color tracker.
Fishing
Stream and shore fishing are all available nearby. The Poplar River enters Lake Superior on Lutsen Resort's beach a few minutes from here. You'll find smelt, steelhead, lake trout and salmon. (MN license required.) For inland lake fishing guiding, try Joe's Guide Service Inland Fishing (387-2483).
Golf
The spectacular 27-hole Superior National Golf Course is a five minute drive from here. We offer discounted green fees and tee time reservations through our Front Desk for most dates. Advance tee times are necessary during peak season.
Gondola Ride
Take the two-mile round trip up Moose Mountain and enjoy spectacular views of Lake Superior and the inland forest from the top. A mountain top deli and viewing platform are at the top. It's a 5 minute walk from The Inn to the gondola.
Hiking
With the Superior Hiking Trail and many State Parks nearby, there is a great variety of excellent hiking whether you are looking for a short walk or a day-long hike. Stop at our Activities Kiosk for ideas and maps or visit with our staff.
Horseback Riding
Minutes from Grand Marais, enjoy a delightful horseback ride through the Superior National Forest. The destination: a pristine lake in the heart of the national forest. Four rides are offered daily, with a lunch ride that allows riders to picnic alongside the lake.
Live Music & Cultural Events
A wide variety of live music, cultural events, and activities are "happening" throughout the year in the area. Some examples include the spring Jazz Fest, summer Dragon Boat Races, Fisherman's Picnic, fall Bluegrass Master's Weekend, the winter Arctic Festival, and live bands at the Lutsen Ski Area.
Massage
The WatersMeet Wellness Center, located a few minutes drive away at Lutsen Resort, offers a variety of treatments. To arrange for a massage, speak with the Front Desk or schedule an appointment directly online at www.nsmassagetherapy.com.
Naturalist Programs
Explore and discover the North Shore environment through the complimentary Forest Service summer naturalist programs. Check with the front desk or the activity kiosk for a schedule.
Rock Climbing
Cook County has some great climbing spots. Guided climbs are offered through Stone Harbor in grand Marais. (387-2360).
Sea-Kayaking
Kayak rentals and tours are available through Sawtooth Outfitters in Tofte (663-7643) or Stone Harbor in Grand Marais (387-2360).
Shopping
Shoppers will find plenty to do in Cook County! Art galleries, apparel, jewelry, books, gifts, antiques, sporting equipment and much more is available between Tofte and Grand Marais.
State Parks
The surrounding area has a variety of beautiful state parks with rivers cascading down to Lake Superior. Cascade State Park and Temperance State Park are close by. Stop in the lobby for maps and information.
Relax. Explore. Enjoy Lutsen's Beauty.
