25 Things To Do for an Unforgettable Northwoods Vacation (No Boundary Waters Permit Required)

Think the Gunflint Trail is only for canoe campers? Think again. While the Boundary Waters is an iconic wilderness destination, the Gunflint Trail offers days of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable scenery without ever requiring a wilderness permit. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a peaceful retreat in nature, you’ll find more than enough to fill your itinerary.

On the Water

Canoeists pushing off from the Gunflint Lodge beach — Pushing off from the Gunflint Lodge beach for a day on the water

1. Paddle a canoe on Gunflint Lake
Experience the quiet beauty of a border lake at your own pace. Calm morning waters are perfect for beginners and photographers alike.

2. Kayak along the shoreline
Glide past rocky shorelines and towering pines while keeping an eye out for loons and bald eagles.

3. Try stand-up paddleboarding
A fun way to enjoy the lake while getting a little exercise and soaking up the scenery.

4. Rent one of our Retro Boats
Cruise the lake in style aboard one of our classic-inspired boats—perfect for couples and families.

5. Take a scenic pontoon cruise
Relax while someone else does the navigating and enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding wilderness.

6. Book a guided fishing trip
Learn local techniques while targeting walleye, lake trout, northern pike or smallmouth bass.

7. Spend the day fishing on your own
Rent a boat or cast from shore and enjoy one of Minnesota’s premier fishing destinations.

Explore the Forest

View from Lookout Point over Gunflint Lake and the boreal forest — The sweeping view from Lookout Point — one of the Trail’s most rewarding hikes

8. Hike to Lookout Point
An easy favorite with rewarding views over Gunflint Lake.

9. Explore Honeymoon Bluff
A short climb leads to one of the Trail’s most iconic overlooks.

10. Visit Magnetic Rock
A unique geological attraction that’s fun for kids and adults alike.

11. Walk beneath towering white pines
Step into an old-growth Northwoods landscape filled with mosses, lichens and birdsong.

12. Photograph wildflowers and Northwoods scenery
Every season offers new colors, textures and wildlife to capture.

Chase Waterfalls

Bridal Veil Falls cascading over mossy rocks — Bridal Veil Falls — feel the cool mist on a warm summer day

13. Visit Bridal Veil Falls
A family-friendly stop where you can often feel the cool mist on a warm day.

14. Explore Devil’s Kettle
One of Minnesota’s most intriguing natural mysteries.

15. Stand beside High Falls
The state’s tallest waterfall on the Pigeon River is well worth the drive.

16. Take a scenic North Shore waterfall drive
Combine several waterfalls with charming towns and beautiful Lake Superior vistas.

Wildlife & Nature

Moose spotted at the Gunflint Overlook — A bull moose at the Gunflint Overlook — keep your eyes open on the drive up the Trail

17. Watch for moose
The Gunflint Trail is one of the best places in Minnesota to spot these impressive animals.

18. Listen for loons
Their haunting calls are the soundtrack of a Northwoods evening.

19. Pick wild blueberries (best time is late July and early August)
Late summer brings one of the Trail’s sweetest traditions.

20. Join a complimentary Naturalist activity
Learn about wildlife, forests, night skies and local ecology from knowledgeable guides.

Relax & Recharge

Two Adirondack chairs facing Gunflint Lake — Your front-row seat to the Northwoods — relax lakeside at Gunflint Lodge

21. Swim at our sandy beach
Cool off with a refreshing swim or simply enjoy the view from the shore.

22. Enjoy dinner at Justine’s Restaurant
Savor regional flavors with panoramic lake views.

23. Catch a game and a drink at the Northern Lights Lounge
A relaxed gathering place with air conditioning, great food and your favorite sporting events.

24. Gather around an evening campfire
Roast marshmallows, swap stories and enjoy the simple pleasures of vacation.

25. Stay up for spectacular stargazing and the Northern Lights
Some of the darkest skies in the Lower 48 make the Gunflint Trail an extraordinary place to look up.

Northern Lights over Gunflint Lodge with people gathered around a campfire — Campfire under the Northern Lights — a Gunflint Trail evening you’ll never forget

Sample Five-Day Gunflint Trail Getaway

Day 1: Arrive, hike to Lookout Point, enjoy dinner at Justine’s and finish the evening around a campfire.

Day 2: Take a guided fishing trip or scenic pontoon cruise, then relax at the beach.

Day 3: Spend the day exploring waterfalls and scenic overlooks along the Gunflint Trail.

Day 4: Zipline through the forest canopy, paddle Gunflint Lake and enjoy exceptional stargazing after dark.

Day 5: Pick blueberries (when in season), browse Grand Marais on your way home, and start planning your return trip.

Why Visitors Return Again and Again

The Boundary Waters may introduce travelers to this remarkable corner of Minnesota, but the Gunflint Trail keeps them coming back. Here you’ll discover quiet mornings on the lake, unforgettable wildlife encounters, scenic hikes, welcoming hospitality and the kind of peace that’s increasingly hard to find. Whether you spend a day or a week, you’ll leave with memories that extend far beyond the wilderness boundary.