Boating North Long Lake: Exploring Brainerd, MN from the Water
Minnesota being known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” often sounds like an exaggerated boast, but it’s not. The state is teeming with lakes for fun and recreation, and nowhere is that truer than in the Brainerd Lakes Area. This beloved Minnesota lake destination, with its strong tourism tradition and access to over 450 nearby lakes, is great for both weekend getaways and extended vacations. Let’s explore all Brainerd, Minnesota has to offer as a lake destination and discover the joys of boating on North Long Lake, MN, one of the area’s more picturesque spots.
Discovering North Long Lake — A Boater’s Paradise
If you are looking to explore this prime spot for a lake vacation in Minnesota, you will want to know where to boat in Brainerd.
One of the premier destinations for boating in Brainerd is North Long Lake. It’s one of the area’s larger lakes, coming in at about almost 6000 acres of surface water with almost 20 miles of shoreline and a maximum depth of 97 feet. It is considered a stand-alone lake and is not a part of a lake chain, like the nearby Gull Lake Chain or Whitefish Chain of Lakes, both of which are also excellent for boating.
Despite its size, North Long Lake is known for its pristine water clarity and calm conditions, giving boating on North Long Lake an ideal family-friendly atmosphere. All in all, North Long Lake is one of the best lakes for boating in the Brainerd Lakes Area.
Calm Waters for All Boating Styles
The calm waters and relative depth of North Long Lake makes it a versatile lake to boat as it fits the usage of different boat styles, including:
Pontoons for casual cruising
Fishing boats designed for bringing in a day’s catch
Runabouts for tubing, skiing, and other watersports
The calm waters also make it a great place for family boating in Minnesota.
North Long Lake Fishing Opportunities
North Long Lake is a prime destination for anglers who are looking for a fulfilling day on the water. The lake has a reputation for being especially good for catching bass, northern pike, panfish, and the occasional walleye. The lake’s shallower bays, such as Merrifield Bay, and weedier shorelines are good for catching spring bass and panfish, while the deeper areas can be especially good for largemouth bass in the height of summer. Northern Pike also like to feed in the thicker weed beds.
Things to Do on and Around North Long Lake
There is a long list of fun activities to be enjoyed while boating on North Long Lake. From dining, swimming, and watersports to scenic cruising and wildlife exploration, there is something for everyone during your boat rental experience on the lake.
Dock-and-Dine Opportunities
The dock-and-dine experience is a Minnesota must-do. It’s just fun to arrive at your restaurant destination via boat and dock to enjoy some local food fare. One of the most accessible options to dock and dine in Brainerd is Dunmire’s on the Lake, serving up delicious American classics made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
Other restaurant options for grabbing a bite by boat or a short drive near Brainerd, include:
The Gas Can Bar and Grill
The Side Track Bar and Restaurant
B*Merri Gastropub Restaurant and Bar
Black Bear Lodge and Saloon
Swimming, Tubing & Watersports
The Sand Bar, located on the northern side of the lake and known for its sandy bottom and shoreline, is a popular swimming and boating destination on North Long Lake. Its shallow water also contributes to a family-friendly environment.
Swimming in North Long Lake can also be as simple as dropping anchor in the lake and playing in the water from your boat. If you take this option, be sure you are not anchoring in heavily trafficked areas and you have checked for nearby boat activity.
Tubing, skiing, and other watersports can also be enjoyed while boating on North Long Lake. Its large size and protected coves offer calm waters to make enjoying these activities easy throughout the lake.
There is also a North Long Lake public access site on the western part of the lake that offers parking, a boat launch, and a sandy beach for swimming.
Scenic Cruising and Sunset Boating
The natural beauty, protected coves, and calmness of North Long Lake also make it ideal for scenic cruising and sunset boating, where you can breathe in the fresh air and relax in the great outdoors.
Visual Suggestion: Map of North Long Lake with icons marking swimming spots, fishing areas, and nearby dining.
Nearby Attractions in Brainerd Beyond the Water
After a day of exploring on the water, there are any number of Brainerd attractions that go beyond the water. Tourists like to visit Brainerd, Minnesota as it has been a regional vacation destination for over a century and after a day on the lake, you can take in its shops, dining spots, and small-town charm. When the weather is warm, there are a lot of Brainerd summer activities to enjoy as well.
Visit Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox
These legendary characters are given a proper tribute with iconic statues at several locations in and around Brainerd. You can visit the Paul Bunyan statue at the Brainerd Lakes Chamber Welcome Center, located on MN 371 near Crow Wing State Park, about 10 miles south of Brainerd. You can find another statue while visiting the amusement park, Paul Bunyan Land, located off MN Highway 19. You can also find a Babe the Blue Ox statue at the park’s entrance.
Paul Bunyan statue at Paul Bunyan Land in Brainerd
Visit the Ice Cream Shops
It seems no vacation or getaway is quite complete without a trip to the ice cream store, and Brainerd has more than enough options to fulfill this time-honored tradition.
The Sweet Spot
The locally owned ice cream shop offers a wide variety of flavors and ice cream concoctions, like sundaes and shakes. Its fun decor rounds out the enjoyable experience.
The Spot 371
Named for the main highway through town, this place offers ice cream treats and sandwiches with generous portions and a friendly, charming atmosphere.
Other things to do in Brainerd, MN include:
Golf on one of the many courses around the Brainerd area
Bike on over 100 miles of paved trails on the Paul Bunyan State Trail
Visit one of the many cultural museums in the area, including the county museum, railroad museum, military museum, or the pioneer village
Explore local art through a variety of public art pieces and murals in downtown
Hike on one of the many groomed trails in the state park
Take in a theatre performance at the Stage North Theatre
There are also local celebrations and festivals to enjoy, like the Lakes Area Music Festival in July and Paul Bunyan Days in June.
Renting a Boat on North Long Lake with Your Boat Club
If you are looking for a Brainerd boat rental to put your vacation plans into full gear, you do not have to look any further than Your Boat Club on North Long Lake. Whether you are looking for a fishing, runabout, or Pontoon rental in Brainerd, Your Boat Club gives you easy access to the boat types that fit your needs. The professional and knowledgeable staff can help you explore all the Brainerd Lakes Area has to offer. There is parking and dockside service available too. You can enjoy a stress-free boating experience with premium boats and great service.
The rich history of the Brainerd Lakes Area as a vacation destination means it also has everything that you need to make lasting memories with your lake vacation. It is a virtual playground for boating and watersports. Rent your boat and get in on the fun. You can look forward to swimming, fishing, tubing, skiing, cruising quiet scenic coves, and exploring the many miles of waterways.
Final Tips for Boating North Long Lake
Make sure you plan ahead and book any accommodations you may need, especially in the height of summer. And don’t forget to bring your sunscreen, towels, and water toys. Minnesota weather is mostly very pleasant in the summer months, but it is also not unusual to have a storm blow through. Watch the weather and pack layers, as it can get chillier in the evenings, especially in late-spring and early-fall. Also, make sure you respect the boating rules in the area and local wildlife. It’s what keeps the place open and accessible to all.
