If you’re yearning for a retreat into nature’s tranquility, Minnesota’s Boundary Waters region offers some of the most secluded towns perfect for relocation or vacation. Tucked away amidst pristine lakes and dense forests, these towns provide a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, an artist seeking inspiration, or someone looking to embrace a simpler lifestyle, the Boundary Waters’ hidden gems have something unique to offer. Join us as we count down ten of the most secluded towns in this breathtaking region, each with its own charm and allure.
10. Silver Bay: Hidden Coastal Haven
Silver Bay, with a population of around 1,800, is a quaint community nestled along the rugged coastline of Lake Superior. This hidden coastal haven boasts secluded beaches and dramatic cliffs, offering endless opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife watching. The town’s main industries include mining and tourism, but it retains a peaceful atmosphere that feels miles away from the ordinary.
What makes Silver Bay truly secluded is its proximity to the vast expanses of the Superior National Forest and the lack of urban development along its shores. Visitors can explore hidden gems like Black Beach, a unique black sand beach formed by taconite waste, which remains a lesser-known attraction. For those seeking a quiet escape with stunning natural beauty, Silver Bay is an ideal destination.
Where is Silver Bay?
Situated along Minnesota’s North Shore, Silver Bay is approximately 55 miles northeast of Duluth. Its seclusion is enhanced by the surrounding state parks, including Tettegouche State Park and Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, which envelop the town in protected natural landscapes.
Access to Silver Bay is primarily via Highway 61, a scenic route that winds along the Lake Superior coastline with breathtaking views. The town’s remote location and the vast wilderness that surrounds it make it a perfect retreat for those looking to get away from it all.
9. Orr: Peaceful Retreat Amidst Lakes and Forests
Orr is a small town with a population of just over 250 residents, offering a tranquil setting surrounded by pristine lakes and dense forests. Known as a haven for fishing enthusiasts, Orr provides access to Pelican Lake, where anglers can reel in walleye, northern pike, and bass. The town hosts community events like the annual Orr Duck Days, fostering a tight-knit atmosphere among locals.
While tourism contributes to the economy, the main industries are forestry and small-scale local businesses. Orr’s seclusion stems from its remote location in northern Minnesota, far from the bustle of larger cities, and the vast wilderness areas that envelop it. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking peace and a close connection with nature.
Where is Orr?
Located along U.S. Highway 53, Orr sits about 100 miles north of Duluth and 60 miles south of the Canadian border. The town’s seclusion is amplified by the surrounding Kabetogama State Forest and its proximity to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
Getting there involves a scenic drive through Minnesota’s north woods, where the journey itself is part of the appeal. The remote setting offers a gateway to the wilderness, with opportunities for boating, hiking, and observing wildlife in their natural habitats.
8. Crane Lake: Gateway to Unspoiled Wilderness
Crane Lake is a small community with a population of around 80 residents, serving as a gateway to both the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and Voyageurs National Park. This secluded town offers unparalleled access to unspoiled wilderness, where outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy canoeing through interconnected waterways, fishing in remote lakes, and exploring countless islands.
The main industries revolve around tourism and guiding services, catering to adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience. What makes Crane Lake truly secluded is its location at the end of the road—literally—where the pavement ends and the vast expanse of water begins. It’s a place where you can lose yourself in the serenity of nature and become part of a community that cherishes the great outdoors.
Where is Crane Lake?
Nestled in northeastern Minnesota, Crane Lake is located near the Canadian border, approximately 85 miles north of Duluth. The town is accessible via County Road 24, and the journey through dense forests adds to the feeling of remoteness. Many areas around Crane Lake are only reachable by boat or floatplane, especially within the adjacent parks. This isolation provides an escape from urban distractions, allowing visitors and residents to immerse themselves fully in the natural world and enjoy the star-filled skies free from light pollution.
7. Cook: Lake Life and Seclusion
Cook is a charming small town with a population of about 570 people, offering a peaceful lifestyle near Lake Vermilion. Residents and visitors enjoy lake activities such as boating, fishing, and water sports during the warm months. The town hosts community events like the annual Timber Days festival, fostering a friendly and communal atmosphere.
While tourism influences the local economy, primary industries include healthcare and education, serving the broader rural area. Cook’s seclusion comes from its location amidst sprawling forests and its distance from major highways, making it a serene spot for those looking to embrace lake life away from crowded tourist destinations.
Where is Cook?
Cook is situated approximately 90 miles north of Duluth, accessible via U.S. Highway 53 and then onto State Highway 1. The town’s remote setting is enhanced by the surrounding Superior National Forest and its proximity to Lake Vermilion’s numerous bays and islands. Traveling to Cook involves winding through scenic routes bordered by towering pines and crystal-clear lakes. This seclusion makes it an ideal retreat for those wanting to disconnect and enjoy the simplicity of rural living.
6. Hovland: Serenity Along the North Shore
Hovland is a tiny, unincorporated community with an estimated population of around 100 residents. Nestled along Lake Superior’s North Shore, it offers secluded beaches, lush forests, and a quiet atmosphere that has long appealed to artists and writers seeking inspiration. The main industries in Hovland are tourism and small artisan businesses, with locals crafting goods inspired by the natural surroundings.
What makes Hovland truly secluded is its minimal development and the vast stretches of wilderness that border the town. The nearby Judge C.R. Magney State Park, home to the mysterious Devil’s Kettle waterfall, adds to the area’s allure as a hidden gem.
Where is Hovland?
Located about 20 miles northeast of Grand Marais along Highway 61, Hovland is one of the last communities before reaching the Canadian border. Its seclusion is due in part to the dense forests of the Superior National Forest and the rugged shoreline of Lake Superior that limit accessibility. The town can be accessed by a scenic drive that showcases breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding wilderness. Hovland’s remote location makes it a tranquil spot for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in nature.
5. Isabella: Hidden Gem in the Superior National Forest
Isabella is a remote and peaceful community with a population of approximately 200 people, deep within the Superior National Forest. This hidden gem is perfect for those desiring complete immersion in nature and a simplistic way of life. Outdoor activities abound, including hiking, snowmobiling, and berry picking in the surrounding forests.
The main industries are limited to small local businesses and tourism, with an emphasis on eco-friendly practices. Isabella’s seclusion comes from its location off the beaten path, with limited cell service and minimal commercial development, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy the tranquility of untouched wilderness.
Where is Isabella?
Isabella is located about 30 miles southwest of Silver Bay, accessible via Forest Highway 11. The town’s remoteness is heightened by the fact that it’s nestled in a vast stretch of forest, with the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness to the north. Getting to Isabella involves traveling through winding forest roads that offer glimpses of wildlife and serene natural landscapes. This isolation makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a true escape from modern amenities and a chance to reconnect with the natural world.
4. Lutsen: Wilderness Meets Adventure
Lutsen is a small resort town with a population of around 190 residents, known for its mix of secluded wilderness and outdoor adventure opportunities. Home to the Lutsen Mountains Ski Resort, it’s a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding in the winter months. During the summer, visitors can enjoy hiking along the Superior Hiking Trail, golfing, or riding the alpine slide.
The main industries are tourism and hospitality, catering to adventurers looking for both excitement and tranquility. Lutsen’s seclusion is due to its location along the North Shore, surrounded by the Sawtooth Mountains and dense forests, providing a quiet yet active lifestyle away from urban centers.
Where is Lutsen?
Situated approximately 90 miles northeast of Duluth along Highway 61, Lutsen is nestled between Lake Superior and the Superior National Forest. The town’s remote location is accentuated by the scenic drive required to reach it, with the highway offering stunning views of the lake and cliffs. Access to Lutsen involves winding through small towns and vast stretches of wilderness, making the journey part of the escape. Its secluded setting provides the perfect balance of adventure and peace for those looking to relocate or vacation in a serene environment.
3. Tofte: A Tranquil North Shore Escape
Tofte is a serene town with a population of about 230 people, situated along Minnesota’s North Shore. Known for its tranquil atmosphere, Tofte offers picturesque views of Lake Superior and easy access to outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking. The main industries are tourism and fishing, with local businesses catering to visitors seeking a peaceful retreat.
The town is home to hidden gems like the Temperance River State Park, where you can explore waterfalls and rugged gorges without the typical crowds. Tofte’s seclusion comes from its small size and the surrounding natural beauty, making it ideal for those seeking solitude and a close-knit community.
Where is Tofte?
Located about 80 miles northeast of Duluth on Highway 61, Tofte is nestled between the shores of Lake Superior and the rolling hills of the Superior National Forest. Its remote location is bolstered by the expansive wilderness areas that border the town, providing a buffer from larger population centers. The drive to Tofte is a scenic journey along the lake, with opportunities to stop at overlooks and hidden beaches. This accessibility combined with seclusion offers the best of both worlds for visitors and residents alike.
2. Grand Marais: Artistic Seclusion on Lake Superior
Grand Marais is a vibrant yet secluded town with a population of around 1,400, renowned for its blend of artistic community and natural beauty. Nestled on the shores of Lake Superior, it offers a peaceful retreat with art galleries, local cuisine, and a picturesque harbor. The town hosts events like the Grand Marais Arts Festival and is home to the North House Folk School, where traditional crafts are taught.
Tourism and the arts are the main industries, attracting visitors who appreciate culture intertwined with nature. Grand Marais’s seclusion is due to its distance from larger cities and its surrounding wilderness, providing inspiration and solitude for creators and nature lovers alike.
Where is Grand Marais?
Situated about 110 miles northeast of Duluth along Highway 61, Grand Marais is one of the last towns before reaching the Canadian border. Its remote location is enhanced by the rugged terrain of the Sawtooth Mountains and the vast expanse of Lake Superior. The town is accessible by a scenic route that offers stunning vistas of the lake and forests. This seclusion makes Grand Marais a haven for those seeking a quiet life enriched by natural beauty and artistic expression.
1. Ely: The Gateway to the Boundary Waters
Ely, with a population of approximately 3,400, is a secluded haven renowned for its access to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. This charming town boasts a rich history rooted in mining and a bustling downtown filled with local shops, restaurants, and museums like the International Wolf Center and the North American Bear Center. Outdoor activities are abundant, including canoeing, fishing, and dog sledding, appealing to nature enthusiasts year-round.
While tourism is a significant industry, Ely maintains a tranquil atmosphere that offers a slower pace of life. Its seclusion is attributed to its location deep within the Superior National Forest, making it an ideal spot for those looking to relocate or vacation in a place where wilderness meets community.
Where is Ely?
Ely is located in northeastern Minnesota, about 115 miles north of Duluth and near the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Accessible via State Highway 1 and 169, the journey to Ely takes you through miles of forested landscapes and past numerous lakes. The town’s remote setting is enhanced by the lack of major highways, ensuring minimal traffic and a peaceful environment. Ely’s position as the gateway to vast wilderness areas makes it a unique and secluded destination for adventurers and those seeking to immerse themselves in nature.
