When the desire to travel hits and you can’t wait to leave the stress of daily responsibilities behind and swap them out for some serious fun instead, a trip to the Gull Lake region of Minnesota is just the ticket. This inviting and relaxing locale is loved for its scenery, spectacular opportunities to relax in style, and of course, endless options to get out and make the most of the great outdoors. While Gull Lake and the surrounding communities offer up an abundance of fun when it comes to on-the-water activities, it’s also a place where cyclists will find a maze of trails to check out and explore. If you’re the type of traveler that has a true passion for hitting the road on two wheels, there’s no better place to set your sights while you’re here than on the iconic Paul Bunyan Trail, Minnesota!

A Trail of Opportunity

The Paul Bunyan Trail is an appealing cycling destination not only for its impressive dimensions but for the fact that it connects to so many other trails, making it an easy-to-customize option for those with a passion for outdoor adventure. The Paul Bunyan Trail actually connects three major routes that run through this part of Minnesota, including the Cuyuna State Trail, the Blue Ox Trail, and the Heartland Trail.

At 120 miles long, the Paul Bunyan Trail has officially earned the title of the longest bike trail in Minnesota! This means that just saying you’ve conquered even a portion of it is a feat in and of itself. While some cyclists are up for an off-road-inspired challenge, much effort has gone into making sure the 120 miles of the trail are ultra-accessible to bikers of all ages and abilities. To this end, the trail has been well paved not only between Guthrie south through Laporte towards Walker, but also the trail section that runs from Brainerd to Baxter south towards Crow Wing State Park.

Enjoy the Paul Bunyan Trail, Minnesota Experience

When you decide to take your adventure onto the Paul Bunyan Trail, Minnesota, you’re in for a scenic treat. The trail provides cyclists with a wonderful combination of flat and open sections that seem to spontaneously open up to hilly terrain complete with breathtaking vistas to enjoy! The trail can be approached as a continuous challenge for the cyclist who is inclined to push themselves to new athletic levels. It can also be approached in a more leisurely fashion for those interested in taking time to soak up the sights along the way. The trail includes plenty of places to stop, re-energize, and take in the beauty of northern Minnesota’s landscapes at a preferred pace. Amateur and experienced photographers alike will likely want to combine biking the Paul Bunyan Trail with plenty of time set aside to capture the terrain at its best—so don’t forget your camera when you head this way!

In addition to beautiful vistas, the Paul Bunyan Trail is a route where bird watchers will find a variety of species to admire as they peddle along. The lush grasses, trees, and rolling hills provide a thriving ecosystem for wildlife and an abundance of opportunity for those excited for a closer look.

Trail Logistics and Activities

Much to the delight of travelers, the Paul Bunyan Trail is open to the public year-round, and because it connects so many destinations and other trails, there are plenty of options for pairing your ride with nearby activities too. Many cyclists who enjoy the Paul Bunyan Trail make the most of near-trail picnic stops, time spent resting up in rustic shelters, or even camping at local grounds. Because the trail runs through 14 trailside towns and cities, there’s no shortage of destinations to explore if enjoying the best of new communities is your idea of a great vacation! If you happen to be visiting the Paul Bunyan Trail in the winter, traditional bikes will need to be swapped out for adrenaline-pumping snowmobiles. The Paul Bunyan Trail appeals to winter travelers with a heart for picking up the pace and taking to this iconic route in snowmobile style!

While many summer, spring, and fall visitors bring their own bikes to explore the Paul Bunyan Trail, this certainly isn’t a requirement to make the most of the experience. There are plenty of Brainerd and Gull Lake area rental shops that offer up customizable rental options on all types of bikes perfectly matched to your ideal riding experience.

Book Your Stay Today

Whether you’re headed this way to make the most of time on the Paul Bunyan Trail or just can’t wait to explore the best of Gull Lake, the team at Gull Lake Beach Resorts is ready and waiting to help you get settled into a vacation rental that pairs comfort, convenience, and style. Reach out today to learn more and to start planning your next exciting trip!

If you’re looking for an early summer escape full of natural beauty and lakeside fun, look no further than Gull Lake. You and your group will enjoy plenty of fun Gull Lake things to do, both indoors and outdoors, on the water and off the water. There is something for everyone to while away the time and relax and unwind at Gull Lake.

Splash Pad

If you have some “littles” in your group who may not be able to participate in all of the “big kid” activities, make sure to schedule in some time at the splash pad. A fun way to cool off and play in the water for youngsters or non-swimmers, the interactive, zero-depth play area includes misters, cascading, flowing, and sprinkling water structures, and much more.

Campfire Circle

Put a cap on any day of your Gull Lake escape with time around one of the lake’s campfire circles. Roast s’mores, star gaze, or just watch the flames and pass the time recounting the day’s adventures with friends and family before turning in for a good night’s sleep.

Water Activities

Your lakeside vacation is guaranteed to be packed with tons of fun water-themed activities. Spend some time on the lake in your own vessel, in a rented pontoon, or in one of our loaner kayaks or canoes (first come, first served). Rent some fishing gear and catch lunch or dinner from the 70-foot fishing dock. Splash around in the water, try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding, or hop on our Aqua Lily Pad. After all the water fun, dry off and have a lakeside picnic lunch or dinner.

High Adventure

Challenge yourself and get your adrenaline pumping. Adventures like ziplining continue to be popular, and Gull Lake has its very own course! At Brainerd Zipline Tour, located at Mount Ski Gull in Pillsbury State Forest not far from Gull Lake, you’ll catch views of the Brainerd Lakes area and take in the gorgeous surroundings during the 2.5-hour tour. There’s even a 50-foot free fall drop as an optional end to your experience.

Gull Lake Things to Do Indoors

If the weather isn’t cooperating with your lake plans, Gull Lake has many indoor activities to keep you busy when the weather isn’t at its best. Choose from sports like basketball, volley, and glow bowling to activities like foosball, pool, table tennis, and air hockey. Try your hand at the indoor climbing wall or spend some time with your artistic side and create tie-dye items, edible sand art sculpture, and more.

Archery

Ready, aim, fire! Archery is one of the oldest activities dating back tens of thousands of years. It’s a skill many still use today for hunting, but over the years it has become a competitive sport as well. Whether you’re a skilled marksman or just want to try out a new activity, make sure to spend some time at the outdoor archery ranges. Aim for a bullseye as you challenge your friends or family to do the same.

Beaches

It’s no secret: Gull Lake Beach Resorts has THE best beaches on Gull Lake! Many of our units are nestled directly on the beautiful sand beaches along the shoreline of Gull Lake, making it the perfect place for relaxing the day away and soaking up the early summer sun. Spread out your beach blanket and plant your beach umbrella for a day on the beach, and if the sun gets a little intense, take a dip in the water to cool off. Minnesota might be landlocked, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some amazing beach time on your freshwater vacation!

Biking

Grab a bike rental and head out and explore. Gull Lake is close to Northland Arboretum, the beginning of the Paul Bunyan Trail. The paved trail spans 120 miles, so you have plenty distance to roam and explore. The trail is great for all ages and ability levels and passes through small towns and plenty of gorgeous Minnesota scenery. The portion nearest Gull Lake is mostly flat and easy going. Watch for others enjoying the trail, including guests and locals on foot, rollerblading, or enjoying other trail activities.

Early Summer Getaway to Gull Lake

Enjoy your early summer getaway to Gull Lake and leave all your cares and worries at the door of your vacation rental provided by Gull Lake Beach Resorts. You’ll want to make sure all the fun and excitement of your vacation is reflected in your accommodations. After a long day of fun, gather together for a home-cooked meal in the fully equipped kitchen. Relax and unwind in the open living area with a book or your favorite movie or TV show. We have units to fit any size family or group. No matter what your vacation needs and style, we have a rental that is just right for you. Our premium units include upgrades like stainless steel appliances, granite counters, hardwood floors, flat-screen TVs and more!

Spending quality time with your significant other is important and planning regular date nights is key to keeping a relationship on point. Having an amazing destination to make the most of the fun always helps and those looking to enhance the experience will want to be sure to plan a date night during their time away in Gull Lake, Minnesota. This welcoming locale and its surrounding communities make for an exciting place to spend time together, get outdoors, and enjoy activities that provide for bonding. When you’re putting together the list of Gull Lake attractions for a date night you don’t want to miss, the following should definitely top the list!

Ernie’s on Gull Lake

Deciding on just the right dinner spot may be the most important part of planning a date night. Fortunately for those who find themselves in the Gull Lake area, there are plenty of savory options to choose from! If you’re on the hunt for a casual and welcoming lakeside eatery, Ernie’s on Gull Lake is the place to be. Located at 10424 Squaw Point Road, Ernie’s on Gull Lake is an area favorite hotspot and one of the popular Gull Lake attractions where couples can settle in waterside or in the dining room and enjoy everything from steak and burgers to mouthwatering sandwiches and pasta too. No matter what you select, you’ll want to be sure to pair it with a handcrafted cocktail to top it all off. Ernie’s is a great place to make the most of the view as well as the many live musical performances that grace their calendar.

Go Bowling at Jack’s House in Brainerd

If a touch of friendly competition would take your date night to the next level of excitement, heading over to Jack’s House in Brainerd is a must! Get ready to play a frame or two with the one you love most at this welcoming and exciting stop that’s sure to inspire couples from near and far. Jack’s House is located at 300 MN-25 South and is open Tuesday through Friday from 11:00 am until 10:00 pm, Saturdays from 11:30 am until 10:00 pm, and Sundays from 1:00 pm until 6:00 pm. A variety of food and drink options are readily available at Jack’s House, guaranteeing your date night fun will be as savory as it is thrilling.

Take a Lakeside Stroll or Sunset Sail

Sometimes, it’s the simple things that make a date night memorable. When you’re in the Gull Lake area and you’re looking to spend quality time with your significant other, a lakeside stroll could be just the ticket. Gull Lake is a destination brimming over with spectacular scenery and making the most of the landscape could begin with a hand-in-hand walk that’s straightforward, yet unforgettable. This area boasts a multitude of pathways to choose from that provide inspiring vistas and plenty of time to enjoy good conversation in a leisurely setting.

Of course, if you’re up for something even more romantic, booking a sunset sail with the team at Gull Lake Cruises is bound to be inspiring. Headquartered at 11000 Craguns Drive in Brainerd, Gull Lake Cruises provides options to book private sails onboard multi-level vessels with stunning views to be enjoyed from every vantage point.

Northland Kart Kountry

When adrenaline-pumping fun is more your date night style, Northland Kart Kountry is calling your name. Located at 17568 MN-371 in Brainerd, Northland Kart Kountry is a one-stop-shop for all things go-karting fun! Grab your helmet and jump on in for a ride you won’t soon forget. You’ll be enjoying thrilling speeds as you race to the finish line in style. There are three go-kart tracks on-site to choose from, but this stop provides plenty of other date night fun activities too. Take advantage of access to bumper boats, water wars, and a video arcade for endless fun options that will keep you and your loved one laughing the night away. This stop even includes a climbing wall when you’re looking to earn a new and heightened perspective on date night!

Whistling Wolf and Dark Moon Mini Golf

There’s something quintessentially romantic about a date night mini-golf adventure and that’s just what you’ll find at Whistling Wolf and Dark Moon Mini Golf in Crosslake. Marketed as a mega mini-golf course, this stop features no less than 27 holes to enjoy! Grab your club and sense of adventure as you make your way through a maze of challenging and whimsical designs that are sure to satisfy amateurs and avid mini golfers alike.

Book Your Stay and Enjoy Gull Lake Attractions

When you’re ready to enjoy a Minnesota-bound adventure, the team at Gull Lake Beach Resorts is happy to help make sure you’re settled into accommodations that are stylish, comfortable, and always close to the fun. Reach out to our professional team today to learn more about our many property options and how we can help you start planning your next Gull Lake trip.

Getting out of town to enjoy time away from the daily routine is wonderful. It’s an even better experience when luxury is a priority! Travelers looking for a place to escape the stress and indulge their finer tastes will find everything they’re looking for and more in the beautiful destination of Gull Lake, Minnesota.

Enjoy Sensational Shopping Opportunities

A trip to Gull Lake, Minnesota often comes with an itinerary in hand focused on outdoor fun and adventure. The spectacular scenery crafted by dynamic landscapes provides plenty of opportunities to get out and savor the best nature has to offer.

That said, a trip to Gull Lake is just as well suited to the traveler that can’t wait to indulge their senses through luxury. Gull Lake’s proximity to charming surrounding communities offers up a plethora of potential when it comes to inviting and luxurious Gull Lake activities that promise to be the highlight of your trip. Amongst them, shopping is always a favorable option for the visitor that can’t wait to enjoy some satisfying moments of retail therapy.

While there are many boutiques in this area to choose from, a few are always worth mentioning first. The BluPaisley Boutique on Main Street in Nisswa is wonderfully appealing thanks to its one-of-a-kind collection of hats, women’s clothing, and accessories available to browse and purchase. The Fun Sisters on Merrill Avenue is open exclusively on Fridays and Saturdays from 10:00 am until 5:00 pm and offers up unique boutique clothing selections paired with jewelry options designed to inspire.

Take Time to Relax at the Spa

When you’ve taken time to explore your scenic surroundings and have enjoyed shopping stops along the way, there’s nothing more restorative and welcoming than time spent indulging in some serious pampering at a local spa. Fortunately, those that travel this way for a Minnesota luxury weekend getaway will find Gull Lake, and the surrounding communities have plenty of spa stops worth enjoying!

Therapeutic Touch Wellness Spa at 24400 Smiley Road in Nisswa is an elegant and effective stop whether you’re looking to attend to issues of chronic pain or could just use a refreshing day. The spa is decorated in a style that speaks to Old World flair complete with velvet chaise lounges a cozy fireplace and private rooms that make for comfortable massages, facials, and skin treatment services. Spa services can be booked a la carte or as a package deal if you’re in town with a friend or loved one. The customer service at Therapeutic Touch Wellness Spa is impeccable and guests are sure to leave feeling refreshed and looking wonderful.

Savor Some Truly Fine Dining

There’s something exceptionally wonderful about incorporating fantastic flavors into a luxurious weekend getaway. Those that have their travel sights set on Gull Lake will find that booking an on-the-water dinner with Gull Lake Cruises will be as palate-pleasing as it is captivating!

Guests who book this fine dining experience will step onboard a luxury yacht known as the North Star and enjoy time cruising along Gull Lake alongside a friendly and knowledgeable crew. While group outings are wonderful, those looking to enhance the luxury factor will want to consider booking their dinner cruise as a private event.

During the dinner cruise, guests will be privy to savory options paired with mouthwatering red, white, or sparkling wine selections. When you’re full and satisfied, you can make your way to the observation deck and enjoy scenic surroundings at your leisure. Luxury is yours for indulging in during a dinner cruise with this company which promises to be an unforgettable experience.

Enjoy Accommodations with Upscale Flair

The most luxurious of weekend Gull Lake activities and getaways can fall short if accommodations aren’t in a place that provides the elegance, comfort, and convenience visitors deserve. When you book a vacation rental with Gull Lake Beach Resorts, every moment you aren’t out exploring can be spent in style. Our properties feature bright, inviting, and stylish open-concept floorplans dotted with options such as leather furnishings and stone-framed fireplaces for settling around in the evenings. Location is key to an amazing stay and many of our properties provide one-of-a-kind lakeside views and proximity. From private docks to delightfully vaulted ceilings, guests are provided with space, views, and access points they crave. If you’re looking to spend time on the water exploring at your own pace, pontoon boat rentals are easily accessible through Gull Lake Beach Resorts as well!

Book Today and Experience Minnesota Luxury

When a Minnesota luxury weekend to Gull Lake is calling your name, the team at Gull Lake Beach Resorts is here to help. Reach out today to learn more about our many properties and services and how we can help you plan a one-of-a-kind adventure!

There are plenty of reasons to get out of town year-round and enjoy time away with the one you love most. However, there’s something particularly appealing about a Valentine’s Day adventure where romance tops the list of priorities! When you’re looking for a place that caters to a fun, restorative, and of course romantic time away this Valentine’s Day, there are many things to do in Gull Lake that check every box on the list. The following are just a few of the many options to add to your romantic itinerary when you’re looking forward to making the most of your quality time together.

Take a Winter Weather Hike or Snowshoe Adventure Together

For the couple who finds their most romantic moments when out in nature together exploring, Gull Lake, Minnesota, and the surrounding areas provide some exciting options. While this area of the state is popular with hikers in the summer months, those same trails provide for sensational winter hikes for the couple that can’t wait to lace up their boots and hit the trails. Of course, if there happens to be snowfall this Valentine’s Day, a snowshoe adventure hand-in-hand could be worth your while as well! Consider adding the Gull Lake Recreation Area, Fritz Loven Park, or Pillsbury State Forest to your list of trails to conquer as all provide for beautiful, inspiring, and romantic routes to follow.

Enjoy a Spa Day

While the scenery that makes up the greater Gull Lake area is sure to please travelers looking to escape in the name of romance this Valentine’s Day, nothing beats a spa day where you and your loved one can focus on being pampered together. Gull Lake is home to a number of spas that are worth checking out when you’re ready to book your couple’s massage, facials, stone therapy, or wrap. Whether you go with Therapeutic Touch Wellness Spa in Nisswa or Panache Salon & Day Spa in Baxter, you’re sure to enjoy the experience and leave feeling refreshed.

Unwind at a Local Brewery

If casual settings and the best of local flavor are the moments you and your partner look forward to, the Roundhouse Brewery in Nisswa is calling your name. Located at 23836 Smiley Road in Nisswa, the Roundhouse Brewery is a great place to grab a table on the spacious patio, enjoy friendly service and order up anything from a pale ale or IPA to a bold lager. Because only the patio will be open over Valentine’s Day, you’ll want to bundle up for this flavorful stop—however, that gives everyone even more of a reason to snuggle up too!

Savor a Coffee from Stonehouse

Sometimes the most romantic moments are the quiet ones spent together. When you’re just looking to unwind in the comfort of your vacation rental cozied up with the one you love while enjoying a savory coffee, be sure to swing by Stonehouse Coffee and Roastery in Nisswa where pickup options are readily available. Once you have your espresso or macchiato in hand paired with a mouthwatering scone, head back to your home away from home and indulge your tastebuds while enjoying time with the one you love most.

Enjoy Adventure at Mount Ski Gull

For the couple that can’t get enough of adventure and finds their romantic stride on the slopes, time spent at Mount Ski Gull over Valentine’s Day is bound to be the highlight of their experience! Plenty of runs await that cater to skill levels of all types. Whether you head off on skis or a snowboard, Mount Ski Gull provides the fresh powder, fun, and views that you and your loved one crave. It’s important to note that rentals and lift tickets need to be purchased in advance and if you’re planning to spend time on the tubes, masks are required at this time.

Explore the Paul Bunyan State Trail on Two Wheels

For a fresh-air kick that comes complete with lush surroundings, consider pairing up with a set of fat-tire bikes and hitting the Paul Bunyan State Trail this Valentine’s Day. If you’re looking forward to pairing your biking with bird spotting, this trail is the place to do exactly that. Named after the lumberjack that graces American folklore, this trail runs conveniently through the Gull Lake Recreation Area, but in total, is comprised of more than 120 miles of paved pathway to discover!

Book Today

Whether you’re in town for Valentine’s Day or excited to make the most of a trip any other time of year, having accommodations in place for your Gull Lake getaway is a must! Why not make sure those accommodations are elegant, conveniently located, and equipped with all the amenities you deserve? That’s exactly what you’ll find when you book with Gull Lake Beach Resorts. Contact us today to learn more and to begin planning things to do in Gull Lake!

For many travelers, summer tends to be the season to pack up the suitcase and hit the road or skies in the name of a fun and exciting adventure. While warm-weather destinations are certainly appealing, those looking to get out of town when winter rolls around will find plenty of options for entertainment waiting in Gull Lake, Minnesota. When you’re in the mood to travel and looking for a vacation destination where winter temperatures and landscapes offer up opportunities for outdoor fun, Gull Lake and the surrounding region provide a plethora of options. Between December and February, temperatures linger around the lower to upper 20s with plenty of snowfall too. The combination creates an inviting locale for outdoor recreation enthusiasts to bundle up and make the most of the terrain! The following are just a few of many options for winter Gull Lake activities and fun when you’re looking to expand on the cold-weather itinerary.

Spend Time Skiing

When your idea of the ultimate winter getaway comes with plenty of time savored on the slopes, Gull Lake has just the place for you! Downhill enthusiasts who can’t wait to conquer the fresh powder on skis and snowboards will enjoy every moment spent at Mount Ski Gull during their getaway. This ski resort is a great place for beginners to sign up for lessons and learn the basic techniques to lead to more advanced downhill fun. Those experienced skiers will find the runs at Mount Ski Gull just as engaging and definitely putting their skills to the test. Whether you aim to spend time skiing, enjoying the view from the lifts, or cozying up in the chalet—Mount Ski Gull has something for everyone this winter.

Hike the Winter Trails and Bird Watch

Gull Lake and the surrounding region provide hikers with a wonderful collection of trails to explore on foot in the summer months but that doesn’t mean they close down in the winter. On the contrary, many of these trails are meticulously maintained year-round, meaning those who are looking forward to bundling up and trekking out can do so with ease. The trails that wind through this area are also a great starting point for bird watchers. Bring your binoculars and extra warm hiking boots for an adventure that gives you a chance to observe some snowbirds in their natural environment with ease.

Enjoy Ice Fishing

Gull Lake is surrounded by streams and ponds, many of which freeze over in the winter months. If you happen to be in town when the ice is thick enough, taking time to enjoy ice fishing is definitely one of favorite Gull Lake activities for locals and visitors alike. Join up with a group heading out to make the most of the icy fun, or make it a solo adventure where you take some time in winter to connect with nature in a more independent way.

Go Snowmobiling

For some, winter adventures are all about thrilling speeds and if you’re the type of traveler that falls into this category, heading out on the Gull Lake trails via snowmobile is bound to be a highlight of your stay. Whether you bring your own gear or rent from a locally owned shop, snowmobiling is a breathtaking way to see the sights, enjoy the landscape, and bond with friends while you’re in town.

Have a Bonfire

When you’re ready to slow things down during your winter getaway, booking a vacation rental with an outdoor firepit and enjoying a snowy bonfire is a great option for fun. This family-friendly activity encourages making s’mores and taking time out of your vacation to simply sit around and enjoy each other’s company.

Enjoy Gull Lake Activities: Ice Skating and Hockey

If you’re a traveler with a knack for balance or simply in the mood for some friendly competition, heading to the frozen lakes and ponds with ice skates in hand is always a good idea when visiting the Gull Lake area. From recreational ice skating to full games of ice hockey, it’s likely you’ll run into other travelers and locals with the same idea looking to participate in the fun as well!

Try Snowshoeing and Photography

Gull Lake is truly a scenic destination year-round but when it’s covered with snow in the winter, it takes on a nearly whimsical quality. For photographers, this means plenty of opportunities to get out and capture those moments on camera. During your winter getaway, add a unique touch to your photo journey by strapping on snowshoes and gaining access to even more of the winter terrain!

A Trip to Remember

There’s never been a better time to head to Gull Lake and enjoy a refreshing moment away. When you’re in town, be sure the team at Gull Lake Beach Resorts have you settled into the ultimate vacation rental that keeps you close to the fun. Contact us today to learn more and to begin planning!