Summer

This is What Summers are Made For

Cook County, Minnesota stays comfortable all summer long, thanks to the giant air conditioner known as Lake Superior.

Wilting in the heat? Head to Cook County. With over a thousand inland lakes and, of course, the big lake, you are sure to find a shore to call your own.

Check Out These Summer Activities:

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

Named one of the world’s “50 Places of a Lifetime” by National Geographic, find your way to this treasure on the Gunflint Trail National Scenic Byway. It’s a paved, 57-mile wilderness drive from Grand Marais. Along the Gunflint Trail are canoe and camping outfitters ready to supply your wilderness trip. Or rent a cabin on one of the many inland lakes, you may get a special showing of the Northern Lights in this far north location. Take a drive up to Gunflint Lodge and see across the Laurentian Divide on a treetop Towering Pines Canopy Tour.

Lake Superior

See the lake from a new perspective on Lutsen Mountains. Ride the gondola up the mountain and ride down the alpine slide. You will see the beautiful expanse of Superior National Golf Course, a beautiful and challenging 27-hole golf course. Visit the shore to hunt for agates replenished on shore from winter storms.

Grand Marais

As you approach the Harbor Town of Grand Marais you’ll see a delightful display of wildlife statues and live animals at Putt n’ Pets Miniature Golf! This fun and challenging course is a truly entertaining time. Are you a tennis player? Grand Marais boasts five lighted tennis courts adjacent to the YMCA (Y). The Y has an indoor water slide and zero entry pool. Day passes are available and Minnesota members have reciprocity! With a harbor town center, Grand Marais is the natural place to host festivals and events. Check out our Event Calendar for a complete list.

Download The Summer Vacation Planner