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Your Home Away From Home in the BWCA Northwoods
Cross River Lodge offers a unique blend of cozy lodging and immersive outdoor experiences in the heart of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Situated on Gunflint Lake in northeastern Minnesota, our resort provides personalized service, connecting guests with year-round adventures like fishing, hiking, cross-country skiing, and canoeing. With accommodations ranging from rustic cabins to spacious suites, we cater to travelers seeking tranquility, natural beauty, and unforgettable memories.Our on-site restaurant features scratch-made meals using local flavors, while our knowledgeable staff ensures seamless planning for excursions. From summer paddling to winter snowshoeing, we combine comfort with exploration in one of Americas most scenic destinations.
Services
Lodging
Restaurant
Cross Country Skiing
Watercraft Rentals
Guided Tours
Canoeing
Snowmobiling
Hiking
Nordic Skiing
Snowshoeing
Highlights and features
- We offer personalized service in a remote wilderness setting for genuine relaxation.
- Our location provides direct access to five interconnected lakes for fishing and paddling.
- We specialize in seasonal outdoor activities including Nordic skiing and snowmobiling.
- Our restaurant serves locally-inspired meals with lake views and made-from-scratch quality.
- We provide day permits and logistical support for Boundary Waters canoe adventures.
Services
Lodging
Our secluded cabins and suites offer rustic charm with modern comforts, featuring private decks, kitchenettes, and lake views. Each unit sleeps 2-6 guests with linens, heating, and Wi-Fi. Located directly on Gunflint Lake, we cater to couples, families, and adventurers seeking wilderness immersion.
Restaurant
The on-site restaurant serves seasonally-inspired meals using fresh, local ingredients. Highlights include wild rice dishes, lake-caught fish, and house-made desserts. Indoor and outdoor seating available with panoramic lake vistas, open for dinner Friday-Sunday with reservations recommended.
Cross Country Skiing
Winter guests access 250+ miles of groomed Nordic trails directly from the lodge. Popular routes include the Upper Gunflint system and Banadad Trail with moose viewing opportunities. Equipment rentals available nearby, with trail passes sold at the lodge for Great Minnesota Ski Pass holders.
Watercraft Rentals
We provide canoes, kayaks, and motorboats for exploring Gunflint Lake and connected waterways. Rentals include life jackets and paddles, with day permits for Boundary Waters entry points available on-site. Perfect for fishing, scenic tours, or paddling to remote campsites in the BWCAW.
Guided Tours
Our Gunflint Wilderness Guide Service offers expert-led fishing excursions, portage assistance, and customized adventure planning. Guides provide equipment, maps, and local knowledge for navigating lakes, trails, and winter routes safely, with multi-day packages available for serious outdoors enthusiasts.
Questions
How do I reserve a cabin?
Book directly through our website or contact us via email/phone. A deposit is required to confirm reservations, with full payment due at check-in.
What activities are available in winter?
Winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and snowshoeing. Guided tours and equipment rentals are available locally.
Is the restaurant open year-round?
Our dining room operates Friday through Sunday 4:00 PM - 7:30 PM May through October, with seasonal variations based on demand.
Can I bring my own boat?
Private boat trailers can be stored on-site. Launch ramps available at nearby Gunflint Lodge and public water access points along the Gunflint Trail.
Are pets allowed?
Pets are not permitted in cabins, on trails, or in the restaurant to protect natural habitats and ensure guest comfort.
How do I reach the lodge?
From Grand Marais, follow the Gunflint Trail 46 miles, turn right onto North Gunflint Lake Road and proceed 1 mile to our entrance.
