5 Awesome Things to Do in Cuyuna Minnesota
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Post updated: April 26, 2026
One of the most picturesque and underrated destinations in Minnesota is the Cuyuna region. With a mining history, the region has undergone an incredible transformation and now draws adventure oriented tourists. With crystal-clear water having filled the mines, the new lakes are some of the clearest and bluest in Minnesota. The lakes are popular for kayaking, paddle boarding and even diving. The red dirt around the mines has transformed into mountain biking trails ranging from beginner to advanced.
At just 2 hours from the Twin Cities (and most major cities in Minnesota), Cuyuna is perfect for a long weekend getaway. If you need ideas for what to do, check out these top 5 activities in Cuyuna!
1. Explore the pristine, turquoise crystal-clear lakes
The lakes are what initially drew me to want to visit Cuyuna. Minnesota has many lakes but most aren’t as crystal clear or as blue as the ocean as the mine pit lakes in Cuyuna. Bring a kayak or paddle board or rent them in town from Red Raven. Swimming, snorkeling and even diving is fun in these lakes too.
2. Hit the World Class Mountain Biking trails
The gorgeous red dirt in Cuyuna along the old miner tracks has resulted in world class mountain biking that people travel from all over to ride. We are beginners so stuck to the green trail, but there are intermediate and advanced routes that will keep you busy for a while. The routes also have great views of those gorgeous lakes! If you don’t have bikes, rent from Cykel or Red Raven.
3. Explore the great food & drink scene in nearby Crosby
The main town people say in while visiting the region, Crosby, has many fun food and drink options. Enjoy coffee and chai from Mixed Company, sandwiches from North Country Café, smoothies and breakfast sandwiches from Red Raven, and ice cream from Victual. For drinks, add Cuyuna Brewing and Hardwater Lounge to the list. Try the smoked old fashion at the Hardwater Lounge – you won’t be disappointed!
4. Hike up to Miner’s Point for beautiful views
You can drive up as well on an unpaved road but we parked in the main lot of the Cuyuna State Recreation area and then hiked up in about 15 min! We went just before sunset and stopped along the way to look west and watch the sunset as loons called. At the top, you’ll be looking south and East mostly which makes for beautiful sunset lighting but you won’t actually see the sun go down. If you go during the day, you’ll have amazing views too!
5. Enjoy your cabin experience at Cuyuna Cove
The boutique cabins and tents in Cuyuna are beautiful and the perfect place to stay and enjoy nature. The cabins are cozy, modern and Scandinavian influenced with kitchens, full bathrooms, A/C and private patios with grills. The double beds are comfortable with soft sheets and beautiful Pendleton blankets. The bed faces the glass panels of your back patio, overlooking the lush greenery. The cabins are right on the mountain bike trails so you can ride in/out from your cabin and then store your bikes in the secured bike storage overnight. We were able to walk to the town in 10 minutes from the cabin which was convenient to not have to drive. Cuyuna Cove also has newer tented cabins and a shared spa bathroom with sauna. And, for the dog-owners, almost all of their units are dog friendly.
