Fish where the fish are. Whether on your own or with our guided services, Northwoods angling provides a great way to make some memories—and catch fish by the stringer-full.

Improve your perspective. The only resort located on East Bearskin Lake, Bearskin Lodge provides a classic northern Minnesota experience for your kid-friendly family vacation, extended reunion or romantic getaway.

Winter in the North woods. Nature’s last season provides the beginning of a special time here at Bearskin Lodge, filled with snowshoeing, dog sledding and cross-country skiing on our 77km of groomed trails (which includes 1.5km of lit trails for after-dark skiing).

The call of the lake. Fishing, boating, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, pontooning—we offer a host of ways to enjoy the beauty of East Bearskin and surrounding lakes.

Bearskin Lodge

Located midway up the fabled Gunflint Trail in the Superior National Forest and at the edge of the Boundary Waters Area Canoe Wilderness. Bearskin Lodge features the best canoeing, cross-country skiing and exploring in one of the most pristine wildernesses in the world. Check your cell phones, PDAs and stress at the door, you won’t be needing them.

Each Bearskin Lodge cabin is nestled in its own secluded hideaway and features a private dock and cozy fireplace or woodstove. Bearskin Lodge is the perfect venue for observing Mother Nature in all her glory. Every season provides unique opportunities for enjoying this peaceful, natural playground—and reconnecting with those who are important to you.

Halfway between two worlds on the Gunflint Trail. At the beginning of the Trail you’ll find the community of Grand Marais, full of world class restaurants, art galleries and unique shops. A short drive from the Lodge finds the end of the Trail where deep wilderness offers a solitude experience in camping, canoeing and hiking.

Our History

Founded in 1925, Bearskin Lodge began as “Camp Jackson.” In the 1930s, it was known as “Camp Allen” and was the setting for a series of children's books by well known illustrator Nell Stolp Smock featuring White Tail, the "King of the Forest." The main lodge at Bearskin still has a watercolor map of the area done by this artist.

In the 1970's Dave and Barb Tuttle bought Bearskin and owned it for the next 30 years. They raised their family at Bearskin and were renowned for their hospitality and good humor. In 1980 Tuttles built the David Salmela-designed main lodge building, which houses the restaurant, gift shop and lodge townhomes.

Meet Your Hosts

The McCloughan family bought Bearskin in 2007. Bob and Sue McCloughan were teachers in the Twin Cities for decades before moving to the Gunflint Trail. Their children, Quinn and Kaitlin, are part of the Bearskin staff, and many other family members often help out. Bearskin is a true family resort—small enough to know your name, but large enough to provide excellent services and amenities.