• Updated with new information since originally published.
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  • Our editors recommend these diverse local experiences.

1. Lake Superior, Cook County ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Activities
Lake Superior, Cook County
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2. Big Sand Lake ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Activities
Big Sand Lake
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3. Rainy Lake

Category: Activities
Rainy Lake
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4. Boyer Lake

Category: Activities
Boyer Lake
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5. Burntside Lake

Category: Activities
Burntside Lake
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6. Clamshell Lake

Category: Activities
Clamshell Lake
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7. Clearwater Lake

Category: Activities
Clearwater Lake
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8. Crane Lake

Category: Activities
Crane Lake
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9. Cross Lake

Category: Activities
Cross Lake
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10. Andrusia Lake

Category: Activities
Andrusia Lake
© Courtesy of Alberto Masnovo - Fotolia.com

11. Farm Island Lake

Category: Activities
Farm Island Lake
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12. Granite Lake

Category: Activities
Granite Lake
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13. Gull Lake

Category: Activities
Gull Lake
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14. Lake Elmo

Category: Activities
Lake Elmo
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15. Lake Minnewaska

Category: Activities
Lake Minnewaska
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16. Lake of Changing Colors

Category: Activities
Lake of Changing Colors
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17. Little Boy Lake

Category: Activities
Little Boy Lake
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18. Pelican Lake

Category: Activities
Pelican Lake
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19. Pickerel Lake

Category: Activities
Pickerel Lake
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20. Big Trout Lake

Category: Activities
Big Trout Lake
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21. Rush Lake

Category: Activities
Rush Lake
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22. Spirit Lake

Category: Activities
Spirit Lake
© Courtesy of Ljiljana - Fotolia.com

23. Ten Mile Lake

Category: Activities
Ten Mile Lake
© Courtesy of MaciejBledowski - Fotolia.com

24. Whitefish Lake

Category: Activities
Whitefish Lake
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25. Woman Lake Chain

Category: Activities
Woman Lake Chain
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Summary and Frequenly Asked Questions:

  • Q: Why is Minnesota known as the Land of 10,000 Lakes?
  • A: Minnesota is popularly known as the Land of 10,000 Lakes. In a place with such an abundance of beautiful lakes, it can be difficult to know where to start.
  • Q: What can visitors expect when exploring Minnesota’s lakes?
  • A: Peruse our picks to find some of the top places to relax and experience the waterways that have given Minnesota its famous nickname. Minnesota is a haven for anglers and nearly all of the lakes on our list offer world-class fishing.
  • Q: What kinds of outdoor activities are available in Minnesota?
  • A: Outdoor enthusiasts will have plenty to explore virtually anywhere you base yourself in the state. Those who just hope to get away from daily life and relax will also find their needs met, with numerous secluded and quiet lake getaways available in Minnesota.

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