A Guide to Lake Vermilion: The Perfect Northern MN Escape in 2024
Lake Vermilion is a must-visit destination it’s breathtaking natural beauty and fun things to do in Minnesota. The lake is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, pristine shorelines, and lush forests. It’s is the prefect destination for anyone who wants a Northern MN escape.
One of the main draws of Lake Vermilion is its vast array of things to do. Visitors can enjoy everything from fishing and boating to hiking and camping. The lake is stocked walleye, muskie, and northern pike, making it a popular spot for anglers. Plus, the lake boasts over 40,000 acres of water and over 300 islands, making it an ideal location for boating and water sports.
But Lake Vermilion is not just a beautiful natural playground. As part of the Superior National Forest, it also holds significant historical and cultural significance in the region.
The lake has been a hub for fishing and hunting for centuries, and was even home to several Native American tribes before European settlers arrived.
Today, the lake remains an important cultural and economic center for the region, attracting tens of thousands of visitors each year.
Activities at Lake Vermilion in Minnesota
When it comes to activities at Lake Vermilion in Minnesota, there are plenty of options to choose from to make the most of your time there. One of the most popular activities is fishing.
On the Water
If you’re a fishing enthusiast, you’ll be pleased to know that there are plenty of popular fishing spots around the lake where you can cast your line and try your luck. Some of the most popular species to catch include walleye, northern pike, and muskie.
In addition to fishing, boating is another great way to explore Lake Vermilion. There are plenty of boat rental options available, from pontoon boats to speed boats.
On the Shore
If you’re looking for a more land-based activity, hiking is a great option. There are plenty of hiking trails and scenic routes around the lake that offer breathtaking views.
Finally, wildlife watching is another popular activity around Lake Vermilion. The area is home to a variety of wildlife species, including bears, moose, and bald eagles.
To observe these animals in their natural habitat, it’s best to head to areas with a lot of vegetation and water sources.
Can you swim in Lake Vermilion?
Yes, you can swim in Lake Vermilion in Minnesota. The lake is known for its crystal-clear waters and is a popular destination for swimming and water sports.
One such public beach is located at McKinley Park Campground, which is a public park and recreation area in Tower, Minnesota, on the east end of the lake. McKinley Park features a sandy beach, a swimming area with a diving board, picnic tables, and restrooms. There are also several other public access points and boat launches around the lake that visitors can use for swimming or beach activities.
Additionally, there are several private resorts and campgrounds around Lake Vermilion that have their own beaches that are open to their guests.
What is Lake Vermilion known for?
Lake Vermilion is known for its crystal-clear waters, pristine shorelines, and lush forests that surround it, making it the perfect location for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The lake is also renowned for its fishing, boating, hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.
Plus, the lake holds significant historical and cultural significance in the region, having been a hub for fishing and hunting for centuries and even home to several Native American tribes before European settlers arrived. Today, Lake Vermilion remains an important cultural and economic center for the region, attracting tens of thousands of visitors each year.
Is Lake Vermilion a good walleye lake?
Lake Vermilion in Minnesota is a popular walleye fishing destination. The lake has a healthy walleye population, ranging from small to large sizes. It is regularly stocked by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Walleye can be caught year-round, with the best times being in spring and fall. The lake’s habitat and water quality provide a good environment for the fish to thrive. Lake Vermilion is also home to other fish species such as northern pike, smallmouth bass, and muskie.
How deep is Lake Vermilion Minnesota?
Lake Vermilion is a relatively deep lake, with a maximum depth of approximately 76 meters (250 feet). The lake has an average depth of around 13 meters (42 feet), although the depth can vary widely throughout the lake due to its many bays, islands, and other features. The lake covers an area of approximately 39,000 acres, making it one of the largest lakes in Minnesota. The lake’s depth and size provide good habitat for many fish species, including walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass, and muskie, among others.
What else is there to do around Lake Vermilion?
Soudan Underground Mine State Park
Located in Minnesota, the Soudan Underground Mine State Park is a fascinating destination that boasts of unique geological features and rich historical significance.
The park is situated in the heart of the Vermilion Iron Range and has a plethora of attractions for visitors to enjoy. One of the main highlights of the park is the underground mine tour that takes visitors through the dark and narrow tunnels of the mine, providing a glimpse into the life of a miner.
Discover the mysteries of Minnesota’s mining history with a guided tour at the Soudan Underground Mine State Park! Click here to learn more about this unique and unforgettable experience.
The Bois Forte Heritage Center and Cultural Museum
The Bois Forte Heritage Center and Cultural Museum is a fascinating destination that offers visitors a window into the rich cultural traditions of the Bois Forte Band of Chippewa.
The museum’s exhibits provide a comprehensive overview of the tribe’s history and cultural heritage, showcasing everything from traditional crafts and art to the daily life of the Chippewa people.
One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of artifacts, which includes everything from clothing and baskets to weapons and tools.
These items offer a glimpse into the daily lives of the Chippewa people, and help visitors to better understand their unique cultural traditions and practices.
The museum also hosts a number of events throughout the year, including traditional powwows, cultural festivals, and educational workshops.
These events provide visitors with the opportunity to engage more deeply with the Chippewa culture, and to learn more about the tribe’s history and traditions.
Fortune Bay Resort and Casino
Fortune Bay Resort Casino is a premier destination for gaming and entertainment in the Midwest.
The casino boasts a wide variety of gaming options, including over 700 slot machines, 12 blackjack tables, and a poker room with daily tournaments. Additionally, visitors can try their luck at bingo, pull tabs, and electronic gaming machines.
But it’s not just the gaming that makes Fortune Bay Resort Casino stand out. From nationally-known musical acts to local comedians, the casino’s event center has something for everyone. T
he resort also features a championship golf course, a marina for water activities, and a luxurious spa for relaxation.
Where to stay on Lake Vermilion
When it comes to lodging options around Lake Vermillion in MN, there are plenty of choices. For those who enjoy the amenities and activities of a full-service resort. There are several options available that offer everything from pools and spas to guided fishing tours and boat rentals.
If you’re looking for a more secluded and rustic experience, cabins nestled in the woods or along the lake shore are a great choice. There are several campgrounds in the area that offer a range of sites for tents, RVs, and camper vans too.
Here are my top recommendations:
Fortune Bay Resort Casino
This resort is located right on the shores of Lake Vermilion and offers a variety of lodging options, including hotel rooms and suites, as well as an RV park.
Ludlow’s Island Resort
This resort is located on a private island on Lake Vermilion and offers a unique, secluded getaway experience. They offer cabins and villas for lodging.
Hoodoo Point Campground
This campground is located on the eastern end of Lake Vermilion and offers campsites for tents and RVs, as well as cabins for rent.
Vermilion Sunsets RV Park
This RV park is located on the western end of Lake Vermilion and offers full hookup sites for RVs, as well as a cabin for rent.
Pike Bay Lodge
This resort is located on the shores of Pike Bay, which is connected to Lake Vermilion, and offers cabins and a lodge for lodging.
Ready to start planning?
Lake Vermilion in northern Minnesota is a stunning destination with plenty of things to do to suit everyone’s interests. Whether you’re an avid angler, a boating enthusiast, a hiker, or a wildlife watcher, Lake Vermilion is amazing.
Plus it’s crystal-clear waters, pristine shorelines, and lush forests, the lake is a perfect escape for anyone who wants to experience the great outdoors. With its many attractions, Lake Vermilion is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to northern Minnesota.
