Gunflint Lake Pontoon Cruises

Experience Gunflint Lake Your Way

From its historic location on the Voyageur Highway, Gunflint Lake has always been best experienced from the water. Explore one of Minnesota’s most beautiful border lakes aboard one of Gunflint Lodge’s guided pontoon cruises. Our guided pontoon cruises offer a relaxing and memorable way to explore the beauty, history, and wildlife of the Northwoods. Whether you’re celebrating with a lakeside dinner, soaking in a spectacular sunset, photographing loons and eagles, or learning about the fascinating history of the Gunflint Trail and the Boundary Waters, there’s a cruise designed to help you experience Gunflint Lake the way you want.

Long before paddleboards and pontoons, Gunflint Lake was a vital waterway for Indigenous peoples, Voyageurs, trappers, and early settlers. Its name comes from the vein of chert, or “gunflint”, used by Ojibwe people and French traders to start fires and ignite black powder rifles.

In the 1920s, as railways and rugged tourism crept northward, rustic wilderness resorts like Gunflint Lodge were built by hand and heart—welcoming adventurous guests who came seeking quiet, wildlife, and crystal-clear waters. Over the decades, Gunflint Lodge has weathered windstorms, wildfires, and world changes, but its essence remains unchanged: a remote refuge where time slows, and nature speaks.

Today, the Gunflint Lake forms part of the U.S.-Canada border and serves as a gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, one of America’s most treasured natural preserves. Our pontoon cruises pay homage to this long history with an evening of storytelling, scenery, and delicious, local-inspired food. Just pick the experience that suits you best.

Dine On the Lake: Centennial Dinner Cruise

A four-course Northwoods dinner served aboard our pontoon while cruising historic Gunflint Lake

Enjoy a chef-prepared meal while cruising the crystal-clear waters of Gunflint Lake. Take the evening off and let us take care of cooking dinner! Relax and enjoy a delicious meal made in our kitchen as you cruise around Gunflint Lake. Your captain will share special points of interest, wildlife, and stories of the famous Gunflint Trail.

What to Expect

• A Scenic Cruise of up to two hours aboard our comfortable pontoon boat, with a seasoned captain guiding you across the historic waters of Gunflint Lake
• A fresh, Northwoods-inspired four-course dinner, plated and ready for you to enjoy in the open air
• Stories and centennial reflections from your captain as you glide along the international border and take in stunning views of Canadian and American wilderness

Menu

• Fresh Appetizer Tray
• Lodge Side Salad
• Walleye with Lemon Butter, Wild Rice, and Vegetable
• Homemade Blueberry Cobbler
• Water, Lemonade, and Iced Tea included

Stop by the bar before you go to select a bottle of wine or a canned craft cocktail to accompany dinner.

Child’s Menu: chicken nuggets, fries, and blueberry cobbler

Adults: $125

Children (under 12): $60

Relax &Unwind: Sunset Cocktails Cruise

Watch the sun settle behind the wilderness while enjoying one of the most peaceful evenings on the Gunflint Trail

What better way to enjoy a beautiful evening on historic Gunflint Lake than on the water? Slow down and enjoy an unforgettable Northwoods sunset from the best seat on the lake. If you want to enhance your stay, there is no more peaceful experience than touring Gunflint Lake at sunset. Select the beverage of your choice, settle in and savor a variety of delicious items on our specially prepared charcuterie tray. With luck, the Northern Lights may show up to cap off this wonderful evening.

• Includes Fresh Charcuterie Tray
• Stop by the bar before you go to select a bottle of wine or a canned craft cocktail.

Adults: $79.99

Children (under 12): $49.99

Discover & Explore: Nature, Photography & History Cruise

Join us for a fabulous opportunity to explore historic Gunflint Lake. Learn about wildlife, local history, and the Boundary Waters while capturing incredible photographs along the way. This pontoon cruise will explore our pristine Northwood’s treasure, provide insights into the history of Gunflint Lodge and the Gunflint Trail, and provide ample opportunities to fill your photo collection. Be sure to bring your phone and/or camera to capture the wildlife and scenery so that you can share your experience with family and friends.

Adults: $49.99

Children (under 12): $29.99

* We have a wide variety of wines, beers and cocktails available for purchase. Outside food and beverages are not allowed on our guided cruises.

Our Guests’ Experience

“We had a great time on our pontoon ride! Captain Rich was a wonderful & knowledgeable host.” 7/9/20

“Our dinner cruise was a perfect way to end our anniversary. Captain Tim pointed out many sights on the Gunflint Lake. We were able to see many sights of Gunflint Lake. The dinner was delicious. It was nice learning about the history of the lake as well.” 7/18/20

Which Cruise Is Right For You?