Between the 400 acres of land our resort sits on, the dense Minnesota Northwoods in the surrounding areas, the lake, and so much more, there’s a lot to do at Sugar Lake Lodge! There’s no wrong way to relax during your vacation. If you want to just sit back by the pool or the lake, go for it, but if you are looking for some adventure, there are many things you absolutely must experience during your stay.
#1: Get Out on Sugar Lake
Sugar Lake has been called many things: the Crown Jewel of the Northland, the Mediterranean of the Midwest, The Happiest Place on Earth. We just call it “the lake.” It covers over 1,500 acres and has eight miles of shoreline. Not only do we boast a white sand beach, the lake is also known for its various sandbars great for swimming, floating, and even snorkeling.
The true beauty of Sugar Lake is its crystal-clear water. It has a full 26 feet of visible depth, something you have to see to truly experience. No other lake in the entire state of Minnesota has this much clarity.
What can you do at Sugar Lake? A lot. We offer a variety of free watercraft rentals, including canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, and a 14’ Hobie cat sailboat. You can also bring your own boat to launch from our docks. We believe in the value of getting outside, so we never charge for non-motorized lake activities.
If you like fishing, Sugar Lake has a dozen or so fish species that are plentiful in number! You can take a boat out or sit at one of our many little docks.
Take a swim, get out on the water, or just sit by the lake a read a book. There’s a lot to do at the lake.
#2: Golf at Sugarbrooke
Whether you’re just learning the game or have been refining your play for decades, our exclusive golf course is unlike any place you’ve ever played. This 18-hole, par 71 course was designed by Minnesota Golf Course Architect, Joel Goldstrand. It runs right alongside Sugar Lake, offering spectacular views of its sparkling blue waters. Trust us, this is unlike any course you’ve played – and while it’s challenging to even the most experienced golfer, Sugarbrooke is approachable to everyone. The views alone are worth it.
#3: Explore the Northwoods
Our lodge is surrounded by the vastness of the Minnesota Northwoods, which are filled with hiking and mountain biking trails suitable for new and experienced adventurers. Many trails are located only minutes away from Sugar Lake Lodge, giving you quick and easy access to the great outdoors. Didn’t bring a mountain bike? Cruiser bikes are available for check out (two hour sessions) at our front desk.
Find a hiking trail that’s right for you.
Find a mountain biking trail that’s right for you.
#4 Check Out Grand Rapids
While there’s enough to do at the resort during an extended stay, we also encourage all our guests to get out and explore the Minnesota Grand Rapids area. Located just 10 miles from Sugar Lake Lodge, Grand Rapids is home to a host of places to shop, dine, grab a drink, or take in a show. Looking for good ideas? We’re happy to share some of our favorite places with you.
#5: Sit Around a Bonfire
When the sun sets on Sugar Lake Lodge, we break out the firewood and s’mores kits, inviting everyone to join us around a roaring campfire located just step from the lakeshore. There’s a lot more here than a simple bonfire. This is a place for guests to grab a chair, connect with one another, and even listen to a few songs and campfire stories. Every night is different, and that’s because of the variety of people who sit by the fire. This is truly a special place to make memories because of the people you’ll meet. You never know who will pull up a chair at the fire, so make sure you check it out at least once.
#6: Find a Quiet Place to Relax and Reflect
It’s your vacation, so take some time to relax. There’s plenty to do at Sugar Lake Lodge, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take a moment (or several) to enjoy the quiet solitude of the lake. Thankfully, there’s plenty of places to do just that. You’ll have no problems finding a quiet spot (either indoors or outdoors) to sit and reflect on anything and everything.
No matter what you’re looking to do, we’re ready to welcome you to Sugar Lake.