CABINS MINNESOTA TRAVEL USA

10 Awesome things to do in Cuyuna Lakes Area

April 10, 2023 by Kat No Comments

Cuyuna Lakes Area, Minnesota is the outdoor lover’s dream. This granola-esque region is known for it’s red dirt trails, great local small businesses. and down-to-earth vibe. One of the most popular draws in Cuyuna are the mountain bike trails that encircle the old mine lakes. These beautiful trails attract mountain bikers from all over the continent. There are definitely more than 10 Awesome things to do in Cuyuna, but this list will guarantee you a wonderful time!

This region is popularly known as Cuyuna Lakes Area. However, many of the stops I refer too in this post are located in either the town of Crosby or Ironton. These communities compliment each other well and provide awesome additions to this list.

I took a solo trip to Cuyuna Country area over the summer and had an incredible time. We spent two days exploring the red dirt trails, visiting the wonderful local businesses, and enjoying time at the Ironton Island Glamping A-Frames.

10 awesome things to do in cuyuna Pinterest Pin

Table Of Contents

Planning your Trip
10 Awesome things to do in Cuyuna

Planning your Trip

There are a few things you’ll want to know prior to planning your adventure!

Where to Stay in Cuyuna Lakes Area

What the Cuyuna Lakes area lacks in traditional accommodation (hotels) it makes for in unique Vacation Rentals. There are several awesome places to stay regardless of your budget and/or needs.

Ironton Island Glamping – Great Budget Friendly Option

The Ironton Island Glamping A-Frames are different than anything else you’ll find within the state. These small rustic camping structures hold two single mattresses, a camping stove, battery powered light and charger, and wonderful views! Three small A-Frames share an off-grid bathroom containing a toilet, sink, and shower. Ironton Island is conveniently located a short distance from Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area making it easy to bike in, and bike out.

My dog Brutus and I stayed at Ironton Island for two nights and had the BEST time. We loved the seclusion that we felt in our cabin, the off-grid experience, and the proximity to the Recreation Area.

CLICK HERE to book a stay at Ironton Island.

Hilhaus A-Frame – Luxury Stay in Cuyuna

If you’re looking for more of a luxury stay consider Hilhaus A-Frame. Located within the town of Cuyuna, it’s slightly further from the Recreation Area but so worth the drive (or bike!). Hilhaus can host up to four guests, and is the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring.

I had the opportunity to stay at Hilhaus during the winter and I was blown away. It’s easy to see that the hosts thoughfully curated each detail during the design process. I would love to go back!

CLICK HERE to book a stay at Hilhaus A-Frame.

Other Great Accommodation in Cuyuna Lakes Area

Although I haven’t had the opportunity to stay at the following places, I have heard great things:

Cuyuna Matata (link to Nature Cabin, but there are several cabins)
Cuyuna Range Campground
Cuyuna Cove
Lazy Loon Properties (hosted by Chad and Jess, the owners of Ironton Island)

What to Pack for Cuyuna Lakes Area

If you’re visiting Cuyuna Lakes Area you’ll want to be prepared for the outdoors. If you’re an avid cyclist, I’m sure you already have a list, but this is for the person wanting to escape for the weekend!

Hiking Boots or Shoes
Water bottles
A Hat (It’s HOT in the summer!)
Day Pack
Easy on-the-go snacks
Layers

Tip for hiking with a dog: Bring twice as much water for the dog as you would pack for yourself.

Where to Rent Equipment

If you don’t have your own equipment but still want to paddle or bike in Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area- not to worry! There are a few places in town to rent gear for your adventure.

Cuyuna Outfitters

Cuyuna Outfitters has tons of equipment for rent no matter the season. In the summer they offer traditional and glass-bottom kayaks, inflatable paddle boards, campers, camping equipment and more! If you’re visiting in the winter you can reserve snowshoes.

(Cuyuna Outfitters is one of the 10 Awesome things to do in Cuyuna, read more below!)

CLICK HERE for more information on Cuyuna Outfitters Rentals.

Cykel

If you’re looking for cycling gear Cykel is the place to find it. Rent or purchase gear to use at the Recreation Area which is only 3 block away! In addition to bicycles, they also provide kayak and paddle board rentals. For your winter needs they have fat bike, snowshoe, and Altai Hok ski rentals.

CLICK HERE for more information on Cykel Rentals.

Red Raven

In addition to having AMAZING coffee (see below), Red Raven also offers bike rentals for both summer and winter adventures.

CLICK HERE for more information on Red Raven Rentals.

10 Awesome things to do in Cuyuna

After exploring Cuyuna Lakes Area myself over the summer, I highly recommend this area as a weekend destination. You will find that Cuyuna, Crosby, and Ironton are all home to incredible small businesses and this forested area of Minnesota is so much fun.

1. Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area

The Cuyuna Lakes Area of Minnesota was home to an Iron Ore Mine as recently as the 1980’s. What used to be massive digs are now 16 lakes that make up the recreation area. Over 70 miles of red dirt trails encircle the lakes and draw mountain bikers from all over the continent.

Biking is free, but be prepared with your Minnesota State Park Pass to enter the Recreation Area by vehicle.

Mountain Biking in Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area

The reddish color of the dirt of the Mountain Biking Trails is due to the Iron Ore that was mined in the area. If you’re planning on mountain biking during your visit be sure to scout the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area Trail Guide and make a plan prior to visiting. The Recreation Area consists of 5 different units- each hosting a range of easy to extremely difficult trails.

While I was there I spent most of my time on Galloping Goose Trail. I had beautiful views of Huntington Mine Lake. More on my experience Hiking in Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area, and my personal recommendations can be found HERE.

Miners Mountain Overlook

One place you HAVE to stop while in Cuyuna Country State Recreation area is Miners Mountain Overlook. In the summer the overlook is accessible by car and there is a large parking area at the summit. This overlook treats its visitors with panoramic views of the Mine Lakes and the forested area.

I highly recommend visiting at sunrise or sunset. This would be a great spot for breakfast-on-the-go or a quick snack.

Miners Mountain Rally Center Beach

Miners Mountain Rally Center is the largest parking area within Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area. The Rally Center is a great place to launch paddle boards, canoes, and kayaks into either Huntington Mine or Pennington Mine Lake.

10 awesome things to do in cuyuna Miners Mountain Rally Center

Be sure to spend time at the beach at Huntington Mine Lake. This is an incredible spot to catch sunset while you’re in the area.

Hiking in Cuyuna Country

Hiking is not necessarily recommend when exploring Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area, but it is allowed. I visited in the summer months with my dog, Brutus, and I knew there was no way I was getting a 90 pound golden retriever in my bike basket. That being said, I still wanted to explore the renowned trails.

Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area Red Dirt Iron Ore Trails

I wrote a brief Guide for Hiking in Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area to answer a few of the questions I had while planning my trip!

Kayak or Paddle the Mining Lakes

Although I didn’t have an opportunity to get on the water while I was visiting, I have seen incredible photos of glass bottom kayaks and I can’t wait to try it for myself! Miners Mountain Rally Area would be a great place to launch into either Huntington Mine or Pennington Mine Lakes.

2. Red Raven Coffee

Red Raven Coffee is a must-stop while in Cuyuna Lakes Area. This cool shop has awesome drinks, great merchandise, and a fun atmosphere. Be sure to stop for a coffee and breakfast before a fun day of exploring.

I have ordered the Sandhog Latte (salted caramel) during my first visit, and the Housemade Chai during my second. I highly recommend both!

3. Victual

Victual means “food and provisions” which is exactly what you’ll find in this awesome Downtown Crosby Store. This unique shops is full of curated charcuterie fixings, beautiful gifts, and best of all.. gourmet ice cream! The ice cream at Victual is all made in-house; they have great flavors and are all lactose free.

My first time visiting I ordered cranberry orange ice cream, and my second I went with lemon bar. Both flavors were delicious and I can’t eat to go back and try a third!

4. Cuyuna Outfitters

As perviously mentioned, Cuyuna Outfitters is a great place to rent equipment during your stay. However, it’s also an awesome place to shop! Cuyuna Outfitters has great products from brands like Stanley and Cotopaxi, in addition tons of Cuyuna Lakes Area merchandise.

5. Cuyuna Brewing Co.

In Downtown Crosby, Cuyuna Brewing Co. is a popular place to hang. They have tons of great brews and plenty of seating. This is an awesome place to unwind after a day on the trails.

10 awesome things to do in cuyuna Cuyuna Brewing Co.

I have ordered the Miner 51 Light Ale multiple times and have enjoyed it each time. Grab a Burrito from Burritos California next door and settle in for a fun night with friends or family.

6. Burritos California

As previously mentioned Burritos California is the next door neighbor to Cuyuna Brewing Co. I have to say, Burritos and Beer are a fantastic combination. Burritos California offers burritos, bowls, tacos, and quesadillas.

My first time In Cuyuna Lakes Area I met with Jess- the owner of Ironton Island. We enjoyed a beer and burrito (I had a steak bowl– so good!) and I had the opportunity to learn a lot about the area!

7. Crosby Serpent

The Crosby Serpent is an incredible roadside attraction and a perfect spot for a photo op. The Serpent is located on the bank of Serpent Lake in Crosby Memorial Park. The park also hosts a large campground and huge playground which could be great if visiting with kids.

10 awesome things to do in cuyuna Cosby Serpent

Bruty’s mom made him pose in front of the Serpent.

8. Rafferty’s Pizza

Rafferty’s Pizza has several locations throughout this area of Minnesota. They have a large menu that includes pizza, wings, sandwiches and salads. They’re best known for their creative pies including a Baked Potato concoction.

I have had the opportunity to eat at Rafferty’s several times and I cannot recommend it enough! My Order: The Feisty Pig Pizza (pulled pork, smoked bacon, red onion, jalapeño, pickles, mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese and bourbon molasses sauce). This Pizza is best enjoyed on the banks of Huntington Beach at Miners Mountain Rally Center.

9. Hard Water Lounge

If you love a great cocktail, Hard Water Lounge in Downtown Crosby is for you. They have a large menu of unique drinks, plus a lineup of skilled bartenders that can create whatever you can dream up.

10. Hudson 218

Hudson 218 is a fun bike-in bike-out coffee and bar in Ironton. In addition to serving specialty coffee and craft cocktails they also have a menu that includes a variety of breakfast options, salad, and sandwiches.

During our girls weekend we stopped by Hudson 218 to get out of the cabin. I ordered a Bourbon Caramel Coffee and I have to say.. 10/10.

Cuyuna Lake Area has it all- great coffee, beer, and cocktails, fun shopping, and great accommodation. Come for Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area and stay for the small town feel, and great local businesses. Here are 10 Awesome things to do in Cuyuna – let me know if I missed anything in the comments!