The Perfect Place for Any Nature Lover

Summer is a beautiful time of year to explore the nature of the Minnesota Northwoods. Each of our resorts are set on beautiful lakes and are surrounded by wildlife of their own, but not too far away, there are an abundance of opportunities to see even more of the nature in the Northwoods.

Hop on the Lady Slipper Scenic Byway for a drive through some of the most beautiful countryside in the Minnesota Northwoods. Located partially within the Chippewa National Forest, you’ll see aspen, birch trees, centuries-old pines, and Minnesota’s state flower, the pink and white Showy Lady’s Slipper. The Lady’s Slipper blooms late June into early July but can vary year to year. Keep an eye out for the chance to see a bald eagle, blue heron, or white-tailed deer along the 28-mile drive.

In the late 1800s, when logging and timber companies were making their way through northern Minnesota, they left very few forests untouched. Less than two percent of Minnesota’s logged forests contain old growth timber, but the Lost Forty in the Chippewa National Forest is a plot that was left untouched by loggers due to a mapping error. The area was marked as part of Coddington Lake. The 144 acre expanse is now protected as a scientific and natural area for nature lovers to appreciate. Among abundant hardwoods like red maple and silver birch, the Lost Forty is most known for its old growth of red and white pine. Some are estimated to be 350 years old! Hike the one-mile trail and watch for one of the 90 species of birds known to live in this ecosystem.

An all-time favorite recreation for nature lovers is biking around Lake Bemidji. Starting in downtown Bemidji by the famous Paul and Babe statues, spend a couple hours making the 16 mile ride around the lake where you’ll see loons, waterfowl, eagles, and the occasional white-tailed deer. The north side of the lake takes you through Lake Bemidji State Park, where you can make a side-trip into the scenic bog walk trail. The boardwalk takes you into a secluded tamarac and spruce bog where you can view rare Lady’s Slipper orchids and insect-eating plants.

Start planning your summer trip to explore all of the nature the Minnesota Northwoods has to offer! Check out all of our resorts!

Explore Our Resorts  Northwoods Nature Lover Vacations