Activities / Services in the Area

  • The Lakes Area is renowned for its top-tier golf courses within close proximity. Robert Trent Jones Jr., Arnold Palmer, Joel Goldstrand and Dye Designs are among the famous names who have had a hand in designing these outstanding courses. Several area courses have been nationally recognized by Golf Digest, Golfweek and Golf.

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  • In the "Land of 10,000 Lakes," Brainerd, MN is the central location for boating in Minnesota. With more than 500 MN lakes and rivers and the famous Mississippi River, the Brainerd area boasts beautiful lake scenery, plenty of fish, and everything that you need for a MN Lakes boating trip from boat rental to fishing guides! Brainerd is famous as the prime Minnesota Vacation and Resort location and offers many recreation options. Get on the water for a relaxing pontoon ride, a quiet fishing excursion, an exhilarating skiing or wakeboarding outing, or a simple cruise around the lake. Jetskis and waverunners are also a popular way to enjoy the water and are available for rental at many area locations.

    Boat and Water Safety

    Motor Craft License -
    All motorized and non-motorized watercraft must be licensed by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The types of watercraft that must be licensed include, but are not limited to, motorboats, rowboats, sailboats, sailboards, canoes, kayaks, paddle boats, rowing shells or sculls, all-terrain vehicles used in the water, and inflatable craft.

    Required Equipment -

    • Personal Flotation Devices (Life Jackets)
      There are five types of personal flotation devices (PFDs or life jackets) approved for use on recreational boats.

      • Life Jacket Requirements - The following personal flotation device (PFD) requirements are effective for all waters within and bordering Minnesota. There are new federal regulations for children under 13 years of age requiring life jacket wear in certain cases.

      • The requirements for PFDs are as follows - On all boats (except a sailboard) regardless of length (including canoes, kayaks and duck boats), there must be a readily accessible U.S. Coast Guard approved Type I, II, III or V wearable PFD (life jacket) for each person on board. Type IV throw able devices, such as buoyant cushions, are no longer acceptable primary lifesaving devices.

      • IN ADDITION, on boats 16 feet or longer(except canoes and kayaks,) there must also be at least one U.S. Coast Guard approved Type IV throw able device, such as a buoyant cushion or ring buoy immediately available for each boat. The law does not state that PFDs must be worn, only that they are readily accessible except for personal watercraft (water scooters, Jet Skis, etc.). HOWEVER... The MN DNR highly recommends that PFDs always be worn by everyone on board any boat. Check the label on the PFD to make sure it is a U.S. Coast Guard approved flotation device and what type of device it is.

    • Navigation lights are required from sunset to sunrise.

    • USCG approved fire extinguishers are required on boats. All fire extinguishers must be U.S. Coast Guard approved, fully charged, and readily accessible. enclosed fuel or engine compartments.

    Mufflers/Noise Limits
    All watercraft motors must have a muffler, underwater exhaust, or other device that adequately suppresses the sound of the motor.

    For more Boating and water safety information you can read the Boating Guide from the MN DNR.

    Information provided by the Department of Natural Resources

    Harmful Exotic Species

    If you are a water recreationist—boater, angler, water-skier, sailor, or canoeist—there are some important things you can do to prevent the transport of harmful exotic species from one lake or river to another. In Minnesota it is illegal to transport harmful exotic species.

    • Inspect your boat, trailer, and boating equipment (anchors, centerboards, rollers, axles) and remove any plants and animals that are visible before leaving any waterbody.

    • Drain water from the motor, live well, bilge, and transom wells while on land before leaving any waterbody.

    • Dispose of unwanted bait in the trash. Never release live bait into a waterbody, or release aquatic animals from one waterbody into another.

    • Wash then dry your boat, tackle, downriggers, trailer, and other boating equipment to kill harmful species that were not visible at the boat launch. This can be done on your way home or once you have returned home. Some aquatic nuisance species can survive more than 2 weeks out of water, so it is important to: rinse your boat and equipment that normally get wet with hot (at least 40° C or 104° F) tap water; or spray your boat and trailer with high-pressure water; or dry your boat and equipment for at least 5 days, before transporting to another waterbody.

    • Learn what these organisms look like (at least those you can see). If you suspect a new infestation of an exotic plant or animal, report it to your natural resource agency.

    • Consult your natural resource agency for recommendations and permits before you try to control or eradicate an exotic "pest." Remember, exotic "pest" thrive on disturbance. Do-it-yourself control treatments often make matters worse and can harm native species. For more information, contact the DNR Exotic Species Program, Section of Ecological Services 888-646-6367.

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    • Whitefish Pontoon Rentals

      Pontoon rentals are located right here at the resort. * however, not affiliated with the resort - Enjoy the convenience of not having to pick up elsewhere! Delivery fee is waived for Clamshell Beach Resort guests.

    • Larry’s Lake Rentals

      Pontoons / Tritoons / Fishing Boats

    • Bertha Boatworks - Pequot Lakes

      We Rent Some Of The Best Pontoons In the Market.  Highest HP that you are able to rent without having to make payments for long term.

      Location: Boats are for use on the Whitefish Chain ONLY.  We do not allow trailering.

      Pick up time: Any time after 10 AM on the start date.

      Return time: Any time before 8AM the morning after end date.

      Fuel: The boat comes with a full tank of fuel, whatever you use you are responsible for. We fill it back up as part of the check in process and charge for the top off.

      Damages: You are responsible for any damage done to the boat during your rental time.  - Most common damage is the prop.

      Cancellation Policy: We require 20-day notice or deposit is non-refundable.

      Weather policy: If it is considered safe boating conditions but not a perfect day that is still the day you picked. (over cast, drizzle, spotty showers) - Down pour, lightning, high winds- these are considered not safe- If it is considered unsafe boating weather for more than half the day, we will refund money or switch to another day if available for both parties.  Once the boat has been picked up by the renter - no refunds will be issued.

      Safety Equipment: we provide all the safety equipment for the boat. This includes life jackets (to capacity of what boat you rented accommodates) Fire extinguisher, throwable. Feel free to bring your own life jackets if you wish.

      Note: We do not provide anchors unless requested by renter at time of checkout.

    • Crosslake Rental

      Pontoon / Tritoon rental, Jet Si Rental, AND Fishing Boat Rental

    • Your Boat Club - Crosslake

      You don’t have to be a member to enjoy the perks of Your Boat Club.

    • Lakeboat Rental - Crosslake

      Experience the best Cross Lake boat rentals, jet ski rental, waverunners, boat tours, water sport activities and lessons, flyboarding and water toy rentals at this beautiful lake in Minnesota.  Our watercraft rental services are great for families, friends, company and corporate retreats, team building activities, film and production companies, friend and company parties, exclusive famous celebrity vacations and total houseboat trips in Minnesota.

    • Your Crosslake Marina - Crosslake

      • Boat Club

      • Boat Rentals

      • Slips

      • Bait and Tackle Sales

      • Gas and Ice

      • Parking (limited on-site but there is ample street parking)

    • 66 Marine North - Crosslake

      Pontoon Rentals

  • Take advantage of all of the nature in the Brainerd Lakes Area with a walk or a hike on a local hiking trail. Many of the hiking/walking trails feature amenities such as benches and roadside stops. There are many paves hiking trails such as the famous Paul Bunyan Trail, as well as rustic hikes through the woods or near the lakes.

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    • Veterans Hiking Trail

      • Jenkins (2.9 miles)
        This walking trail located on Counrty Road 16, East of Jenkins, features a 500' bog walk to a small island. Follow the island loop for another 1/4 mile to view a shrub swamp and scenic overlook.

    • Uppgaard Wildlife Management Area

      • Crosslake (3.1 Miles)

        The 110 acres of gently rolling woods and wetlands of the Uppgaard Wildlife Management area offer great habitat for white-tailed deer, western painted turtles, ruffed grouse, blue heron, broad-winged hawks, and summer butterflies. There is a mixture of coniferous and deciduous forest, two small lakes, meadow, and marshland. Donated to the MNDNR by Bob and Barb Uppgaard in 1987 through the RIM critical habitat match program. This WMA is Minnesota's first "Landscaping for Wildlife Demonstration Area".

    • Paul Bunyan Trail Access

      • Nisswa (10.4 miles)

        The Paul Bunyan State Trail is 115 miles long, not including a couple of short on-road connections through the cities of Baxter and Bemidji. Extending all the the way from Crow Wing State Park to Lake Bemidji State Park, north of Bemidji, it is the longest of Minnesota's state trails and the longest continuously paved rail-trail in the country.

      Fritz Loven Park

      • Lake Shore (11.5 miles)

        1. Take a Scenic Hike

        The 1.6-mile loop trail follows the Stony Brook and offers breathtaking views, making it perfect for:

        • A leisurely nature walk

        • Birdwatching & wildlife spotting

        • Photography

        2. Enjoy a Relaxing Picnic

        Pack your favorite snacks and:

        • Use the covered pavilion for shade and comfort.

        • Bring a blanket and find a cozy spot near the creek.

        • Take advantage of the grills for a family barbecue.

        3. Bring the Kids for Some Fun

        • A playground provides entertainment for younger visitors.

        • The gentle trails make it easy for kids to explore nature safely.

        4. Experience Fritz Loven Park in Every Season

        Each time of year offers a unique experience:

    • Crosslake Community Center Trail - South Bay Park

      • Crosslake (4.3 miles)

        The City of Crosslake has been given a rare opportunity to establish a park on property leased from the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers.  The 26 acres of land located off of Perkins Road includes approximately 2,800 feet of shoreline. This long-term lease includes a clause that requires the City to maintain and improve the property for recreational use.  To date, development of the property has been minimal with the creation of some hiking trails and a small parking lot.

         Park Amenities Include:

        • Small Parking Area

        • Walking Trails

        • Green Space

        • Viewing Vista of South Bay 

    • Crosslake Community Center Community Park- Nordic Ridge Trail

      • Crosslake (4.3 miles)

        • Ski Trail

        • Snowshoe Trail

        • Walking Trail

    • Paul M. Thiede Fire Tower Park

      • Pequot Lakes (5.1 miles)

        Paul M Thiede Fire Tower Park in Pequot Lakes, MN is a historic park featuring a well-preserved fire tower built in 1935. The park offers over 3,000 feet of walking trails with interpretive signage, a vaulted toilet, and a large picnic shelter. It is open year-round and located approximately one mile east of downtown Pequot Lakes.

    • Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area

      • Ironton (16.2 miles)
        The Cuyuna Lakes State Trail is eight miles of paved trail within the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area from Crosby to Riverton. One mile passes through the City of Aitkin along State Highway 169. Abandoned by mining companies more than 35 years ago, the state recreation area contains six natural lakes, plus an additional 15 deep lakes that were former mine pits. Stop to fish, explore the Croft Mine, or ride the new 25-mile single track mountain bike trail system.

    • Foot Hills State Forest

      • Backus (19.0 miles)

        Foot Hills State Forest's proximity to the metropolitan areas of St. Cloud and the Twin Cities make it a popular recreation spot. The trail system in Foot Hills State Forest is used for hiking and OHV riding in the summer and cross-country skiing and snowmobiling in the winter.

    • Pillsbury State Forest

      • Nisswa (19 miles)

        The trails at Pillsbury State Forest meander through a heavy forested area consisting of a variety of deciduous and coniferous trees. The woods are dotted with small lakes and ponds where you're likely to see evidence of beavers and other wildlife. You may also find several varieties of wildflowers, including the yellow lady's-slipper.

      Northland Arboretum

      • Brainerd (21 miles)

        The Northland Arboretum boasts nearly 20 kilometers (12 miles) of trails for hiking and cross-country skiing with nearly 5 kilometers lighted for evening skiing. The trails are designed to accommodate all ages and skill levels and are considered among the best in Minnesota.

    • Crow Wing State Park

      • Brainerd (27.4 miles)

        Park highlights

        • Camping

        • Fishing

        • Scenic hiking trails

        • Historic sites

        • Canoeing/Mississippi River

        • Great wildlife watching

        Visit the historic Old Crow Wing town site, at the confluence of the Mississippi and Crow Wing rivers. Signs share the story of this frontier town in the mid-1800s. Start from the picnic area parking lot. ♦ From the boat landing, climb the stairs to Chippewa Lookout. Stand high atop the Mississippi River for distant views.

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    • Crosslake Community Center - Crosslake (6.4 miles)

    • Mount Ski Gull- Nisswa (16 miles)

      Mt. Ski Gull provides challenging activities in a fun and healthy environment which empowers youth to develop confidence, competency and compassion. We have 12 runs (40% beginner, 30% intermediate, 30% expert), dedicated high speed rope tow terrain park, bunny hill tow rope and triple chair lift, terrain park designed for snowboarders and skiers, tubing hill, ski and snowboard rentals. Enjoy night skiing and a Chalet with concessions and a couple cozy fireplaces. We can also accommodate your group or private parties.

    • Northland Arboretum - Baxter (21 miles)

      During the summer months, our sledding hill serves as a native pollinator habitat. In the winter, the hill is available for sledders of all ages, best for younger ages. It is located right next to the nature playscape. In the evenings, the hill is lit until 10 PM. 

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    • Breezy Point Sports Center - Breezy Point (4.3 miles)

      Public Skating

      Ice skating sessions for All Ages are one of the main attractions at Breezy Point Sports Center. Ice Skating provides great exercise and an opportunity to get out of the house – plus, it is not like exercising at the gym… skating is fun! Lace-em up and come join the others. Get on the ice and get ready for a great experience. Breezy Point Sports Center Ice Skating Rink is a 1 sheet indoor ice skating rink is open year round. It was founded in 2000.

    • Crosslake Community Center Skating Pond - Crosslake (6.8 miles)

      The Skating Pond is located behind the Softball Field on the West side of the park.

    • Downtown Nisswa Rink- Nisswa (10 miles)

      The Downtown Nisswa Rink offers a classic outdoor ice-skating experience suitable for all ages. Whether you're interested in leisurely skating or engaging in a friendly game of hockey, the rink provides a well-maintained ice surface. Adjacent to the rink is a warming house where visitors can take breaks and warm up. Additionally, rental skates are available during warming house hours for those who do not have their own equipment.

    • Pine River Ice Rink - Pine River (13 miles)

      The city of Pine River has a public ice rink for ice skating and ice hockey from daylight until 10:00 p.m. The rink includes a heated warming house and a plowed parking lot. For updated rink information and announcements, visit the Friends of the Pine River Ice Rinkon Facebook.

    • Copper Creek Garden Center - Nisswa (15 miles)

      Available when weather allows during business hours. Bring your own Ice Skates.

    • Northland Arboretum - Baxter (21 miles)

      Step into something new with us this winter!

      This is our very first year offering Forest Ice Skating, and we’re treating it as an exciting experiment. We’ve created a gently winding ice trail through the woods, between a quarter-mile and a half-mile long, with light elevation changes for a truly unique outdoor skating experience. We’re still learning, testing, and refining, but we think you’re going to love it.

      Hours

      • Weekdays: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

      • Weekends: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

        • Dependent on weather conditions - check website or Facebook page for current status

      Admission

      • Members: Free

      • Guests 15+: $10

      • Guests 14 and under: $5

      • Veterans & Seniors (65+): $5

      Skates

      We hope to offer skate rentals through the Visitor Center soon. In the meantime, we are gratefully accepting skate donations to help us build our rental collection.

      Come glide through the trees, enjoy the crisp winter air, and be part of our very first season on the ice. We can’t wait to see you out on the trail!

    • Hallet Center - Crosby (25 miles)

      NHL size 200’x85’ rink available mid-October to mid-March

      The HCC Arena is equipped for five months of ice skating and ice hockey. HCC also holds various Open Skating and Open Hockey sessions each week during the winter.

  • A 1,200 mile network of snowmobile trails radiate in every direction from Brainerd, making the Brainerd Lakes Area one of the upper Midwest's premier snowmobiling destinations.

    Ride snowmobile the 100 mile Paul Bunyan Trail to Bemidji, or venture off on one of the other groomed snowmobile trails. The famous Gull Lake Lighted Trail will guide you on your night excursions.

    If you're interested in old sleds, be sure to plan a January weekend in the lakes area watching all the action at the Annual Antique Snowmobile Rendezvous in Pequot Lakes.

    The lakes area snowmobile clubs are responsible for the grooming of trails. It's a service much appreciated by our community...and visitors.

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  • The Brainerd Lakes Area is home to one of the best multispecies freshwater fisheries in the country. Whether you’re chasing panfish, largemouth or smallmouth bass, muskie, or the iconic Minnesota walleye, our waters offer something for every angler.

    Don’t Go It Alone: Fish with the Pros

    If you’re visiting or just want to increase your chances of a great catch, hiring a professional fishing guide is the way to go. Guides provide the boat, gear, local expertise, and insider tips that turn a good day on the water into a great one.

  • CASUAL DINING

    UPSCALE DINING

    • Norway Ridge Supper Club - Pequot Lakes - 1.7 mi

    • Manhattan Beach Lodge - Manhattan Beach - Manhattan Beach - 6.2 mi *Lakeside

    • Maucieri’s Italian Bistro - Crosslake

    • Antlers - Breezy Point - 4.9 mi

    • Marina II - Breezy Point - 5.1 mi

    • Cru Restaurant & Wine Bar - Nisswa - 12.2 mi

    • Italian Gardens at Grand View Lodge - Nisswa - 12.4 mi

    • CHAR Craft Steaks at Grandview Lodge - Nisswa - 12.4 mi

    • Bar Harbor Supper Club - Lake Shore - 12.1 mi

    • Mission Point at Madden’s - Brainerd - 19.4 mi

    • The Preserve Smokehouse at Grandview Lodge - 6.9 mi

    • The Classic Grill at Madden’s - Brainerd - 20.5 mi

    PIZZA

    FAST FOOD

    • Dairy Queen - Crosslake - 5.8 mi

    • Dairy Queen - Pequot Lakes - 5.9 mi

    • Dairy Queen - Pine River - 8.9 mi

    • Subway - Crosslake - 5.9 mi

    • Subway - Breezy Point - 5.0 mi

    • Subway - Nisswa - 11.2 mi

    • A & W Restaurant - Nisswa - 10.1 mi

    • Wendy’s - Nisswa - 11.7 mi

  • Snarky Loon Brewing Company - Jenkins

    14 Lakes Pub & Brewery - Crosslake

    Big Axe Brewing Company - Nisswa

    Cuyuna Brewing Company - Crosby

    Jack Pine Brewery - Baxter

    Dennis Drummond Winery - Brainerd

  • You don’t have to go far - the Lodge offers a variety of beverages - coffee, tea, lattes, dirty sodas, bobas, and hot chocolate!

  • Specialty Markets:

  • PEQUOT LAKES

    CROSSLAKE