Tucked into Minnesota’s Iron Range, the Cuyuna Lakes area has transformed from mining relics into a multi-season playground—with crystal-clear lakes, winding trails, and a community that’s as down-to-earth as the region’s red dirt. As Larimer puts it, with over 70 miles of single-track trails, “Cuyuna is a premier outdoor recreation destination” Centrally located in Deerwood, Cuyuna Lakes Stay offers refreshed rooms with kitchenettes, mobile keys, and secure bike storage—tailored for explorers, riders, and birdwatchers year-round.
In this guide, you’ll discover why Cuyuna is more than just a summer escape—it’s a year-round haven. Use this post to plan your trip, whatever the season. Life In Minnesota.
By mid-May, the award-winning single-track trails around Yawkey and Dragons Back beckon riders of all levels. Designed to take advantage of “red-hued soil and purpose-built lines”, these paths are why IMBA named the area a “Midwest Mecca” Expect wooded canopies, ridge views, and routes that test both stamina and scenery.
Former mine pits have filled to glass clarity—Huntington, Portsmouth, and Mine Lake now offer world-class clarity and depth. Paddle, fish, or simply soak it in—these lakes teem with trout, pike, and bass .
Don’t miss the gravel Cuyuna Lakes State Trail, stretching 6 miles through marshes, pine forests, and mine remnants. Check the signposts—eagles, loons, and kingfishers are often visible .
Stay Tip: Recharge in your kitchenette-equipped room, stow your bike in the secure van, and relax with local brews at Iron Range Eatery or Red Raven Bike Café—both steps from your door .
As leaves turn, the landscape glows gold and amber. Fall miles are quieter, perfect for introspection and wildlife sighting. Bring binoculars to see migratory waterfowl at rest in the old pits .
Fall air dips, especially in October. Daytime highs hover around 69 °F, with lows around 48 °F—ideal for all-day adventures.
Stay Tip: Take advantage of shoulder-season rates and enjoy the solitude—Cuyuna Lakes Stay offers around $115–128/night even weekends outside summer peak .
With 14+ reasons to visit winter Cuyuna, there’s more than just biking in snow—try snowshoeing through frost-lined trails or fat-tire riding along groomed routes under silent sky.
If riding isn’t your thing, head to frozen lakes for solitude and a little fish beneath the ice. Equipment is lightweight and lure prospects are peaceful.
Stay Tip: Your kitchenette is perfect for warming up over hot drinks—skip check-out until the last trace of frost leaves.
April brings 40–60 °F temps and the return of greening landscapes—plus emergent birdlife. Marshes fill and birch trees bud in early spring hikes .
Trailheads re-open around mid-April. Early season rides are quieter but sticky—check conditions.
Stay Tip: Spring rate dips invite longer stays. Warm-up your kitchen and offload gear after muddy days.
Cuyuna Lakes Stay is more than lodging—it’s an invitation to experience outdoor richness across seasons:
Whether you’re packing your mountain bike or snowshoes, this Deerwood basecamp pairs comfort with convenience—and invites you to return season after season.
If you’d like help planning your multi-season visit or choosing the right room setup, feel free to contact Cuyuna Lakes Stay—they’re locals who speak your outdoor language.
When booking a stay with pets at Cuyuna Lakes Stay, you must call the hotel to add your pets to your reservation.
Pets must not weigh more than 50 pounds, with a limit of 1 dog per room.
Dogs ONLY no cats allowed.
Dogs cannot be left unattended in the room.
You must provide your pets vaccination records if asked for them.
The hotel will charge additional $30 per night throughout your stay with your pet.
You will be held financially responsible for pet damage to your room.
Pets must be on a leash whenever they are out of your room.
If you receive two (2) noise complaints you will be asked to leave. (No refunds)
You must pick up after where ever your pet goes potty. You must have your own potty bags, we do not provide them.
Thank you.