If you prefer that your Northwoods adventures include a swimmable and boatable inland lake, look no further than Devil Track Lake in Grand Marais, Minnesota. The inland lake is well known as a boaters paradise in the summer months and a snowmobilers paradise in the winter.
Quick Facts About Devil Track Lake
Devil Track Lake is located about 13 miles north of Grand Marais, MN off the Gunflint Trail. The lake has a maximum depth of 50 feet and water clarity down to 8.6 feet with a surface area of 1,867 acres.
Fishing enthusiasts can expect to catch a an impressive variety of fish. These include walleye, northern pike, green sunfish, smallmouth bass, and yellow perch.
The lake is conveniently located between Grand Marais and the gateway to the Gunflint Trail Scenic Byway. This popular inland lake destination is a favorite amongst both summertime and wintertime visitors.
All About Devil Track Lake in the Summer
As Devil Track Lake is a boater’s paradise, it has to have some public boat launches! The first boat launch located off of Devil Track Road on Wesly Ln. is a dirt carry-in with limited parking spots. This boat launch is also an excellent spot to go for a swim! The second boat launch is also located right off of Devil Track Road about 1.2 miles further than the first one. This boat launch is a concrete trailer launch with a dock and about 15 parking spots.
In addition to the boat landings, there is also a seaplane base on the northern side of the lake. The base is supported by the Cook County Airport, also located near the lake, and is a popular spot for spectators to watch the plans take off and land.
Finally, the lake is the summertime home to the first floating sauna in North America! The Sisu + Loyly floating sauna has been docked near the Raven Rock Grill since 2023.
All About Devil Track Lake in the Winter
Devil Track Lake has been the epicenter of the Northern Minnesota snowmobiling community for years. The Raven Rock Grill, located on the northern side of the lake, hosts annual snowmobile drag races every year. Attracting snowmobilers from all over the state and upper midwest. The Grill then hosts snowmobilers throughout the winter season as the converge on the bar and grill after a long day out on the trails.
Here you will also find one of the checkpoints for the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon, located at the 198-mile mark.
Why Visit the Lake When You Can Stay at the Lake?
The lake is home to several Cascade Vacation Rentals properties. The north side of the lake is more active with the bar and grill providing some nighttime entertainment while the southern part of the lake is more peaceful and serene. Check out all of the homes located around Devil Track Lake to find your ideal vacation rental.
Getting There:
From downtown Grand Marais turn right onto 5th st and continue until you hit the Gunflint Trail. Turn Left on the Gunflint Trail and continue for 3 miles. Once you see the Gunflint Hills Golf Course you will turn left onto Devil Track Road. Continue down Devil Track Road until you hit the lake! If you’re looking for the Wesly Ln boat launch, it’s about 7 miles down the road.
Most public destinations are located on the northern shore of the lake. These include the public boat launches, at the seaplane base, the Cook County Airport, and Raven Rock Grill. The south shore of the lake is primarily private residences.