Heading to Gull Lake, Minnesota any time of year is a treat. That said, for those who are excited to make the most of the changing colors and the views, there’s something special about a fall trip complete with some scenic drives on the itinerary. The following are just a few routes to consider enjoying when you’re next in town!
Enjoy a Tour Around Gull Lake and Savor the Sights
Gull Lake is a gorgeous place to explore by vehicle in the fall and when you’re looking for a comprehensive route to show you the best of it all, begin at Highway 210 and 371 near Brainerd before heading north to County Road 77. This is the road that will take you towards the southern shores of Gull Lake and from here, you can circle the entire area with ease!
The beauty of a trip this way is that while you’re taking in the dynamic landscapes, you’ll also be privy to some pristine landmarks. A few include the area’s famous legacy golf courses that draw in pros and novices alike. If you’re the type of traveler who can’t wait to get out on the greens, these sights may inspire you to expand on your post-drive itinerary!
All of that said, the drive around Gull Lake promises to be an inspiring and scenic one. There’s a maintenance road off of County State Aid Highway 1 along this route that leads to a lookout at the top of Mount Ski Gull. If you’re into panoramic views that have you lingering longer than you planned, this is the place to be. If you’re lucky enough to be here while the leaves are changing colors, this is the ultimate leaf-peeping spot. Once you’ve grabbed your photos, jump back in the car and continue following County Road 77. You’ll make your way through Sherwood Forest and eventually end up at the northern shores of the lake where you can continue sightseeing or stop in at one of the many restaurants for a well-deserved meal.
Explore the Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway
A trip to Gull Lake focused on fantastic sightseeing can’t be considered complete without at least one drive enjoyed along the Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway. In total, this route is 54 miles long and is comprised of pristine country roads that connect Crow Wing and Cass counties seamlessly. While the hiking and walking trails that follow this route are sure to inspire, driving it is a good way to take it all in when you want to cover a larger area or perhaps have less time to spend. Driving along the Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway is a great chance to enjoy views of 14 different area jurisdictions that are dotted with lakes, parks, preserves, and recreation areas alike. This makes it simple to pair your sightseeing with some stopovers in the name of fun, particularly helpful if you’re traveling through with little ones in tow! Along this route, when you reach the intersection with CSAH 66, you’ll find yourself heading north which offers up a glimpse of the Whitefish Chain. A bit further south, you can choose to explore Pelican Lake if you’d like!
Make a Drive Through Pillsbury State Forest a Priority This Fall
Situated along scenic County Road 77, Pillsbury State Forest is a must-see when you’re looking for scenic drives near Gull Lake. Head towards Pillsbury Forest Road, which encompasses the southernmost line along CR 77. Once you’re here, you’ll have three options when it comes to intersections to choose from. That means a customized adventure at every turn! Do note that these routes tend to be minimum-maintenance forest roads, so it’s a good idea to have the four-wheel drive in place before you head in. If you are ready for the adventure, you can look forward to sights like Stump Lake as well as the Assembly Area and Horse Campground. Those with a passion for history will want to be sure to head towards the homestead on site dating back to 1886. Link up with Beauty Lake Forest Road from which explorers can find views of four different lakes during the excursion. Continue on County Road 1 for just under a mile to reach Orchard Park Lane which provides a path to Rock Lake and the campground there too.
Book Your Gull Lake Getaway Today
There’s never been a better time to plan your Gull Lake getaway and no reason to hesitate when you can’t wait to make the most of the fun. Let the property professionals at Gull Lake Beach Resorts handle all the details of your vacation rental so that when you arrive, the only thing left to do is focus on all the fun that awaits. Reach out today to learn more about our many beautiful property options in the area and to start planning. We can’t wait to see you in Gull Lake soon!
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