Now that we’re safely past any Minnesota winter fake-outs, it couldn’t be a better time to share our latest recommendations for activities and events in the Mille Lacs Lake area during the spring season. So, keep these as an itinerary for your next stay at Eddy’s in April or May – we think you’ll have a few favorites!
SHORELINE DISCOVERIES
As cool temperatures retreat, the water warms, and Mille Lacs Lake returns to its form; it’s the perfect time of year to walk the beaches of Father Hennepin State Park. Not yet crowded with swimmers and summer adventurers, the shoreline is perfect for picnics or quiet moments of contemplation. As the 320 acres of the park re-awaken through spring with new flowers and wildlife, it also couldn’t be a more idyllic destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.
MID-DAY PADDLES
As the water warms into the afternoons, we highly recommend renting canoes or kayaks at Kathio State Park. Located just one mile west of Eddy’s, you can paddle down the Rum River to Shakopee Lake or paddle upriver to Mille Lacs Lake. And once the waters are warm enough for swimming, the mouth of the Rum River on Mille Lacs Lake makes for a picturesque swim with friends or family.
FARMERS MARKET EXCURSIONS
On Saturdays from 9 am – 1 pm at Johnson’s Portside Bait & Liquor, stop by one of the best farmers markets in the region, packed with vendors who’ve been baking and canning the freshest goods all winter long just in time for spring.
You can also visit the Onamia Farmers Market, just a ten-minute drive from Eddy’s. It’s open on Thursdays from 2 – 6 pm and features locally grown wild rice, maple syrup, honey, preserves, pastries, and home-baked bread. It’s located outside the Farm Market Café at 108 Wall Street, South Onamia, Minnesota 56359.
TWO WHEELS AND A DREAM
Now that the snow has mostly melted, it’s a must for everyone to try their hand at biking the Soo Line Trail, the trails at Kathio State Park, or the Cuyuna Lake’s Mountain Bike Trails. They’re some of the most iconic trails in Minnesota and easy enough for most riders to enjoy.
For bikers or hikers, we also recommend traversing Twilight Road on the west shore of Mille Lacs Lake near Eddy’s. It’s one of the best-kept scenic secrets in the area, and you’ll likely see swans, ducks, and eagles as they return for the spring season.
Curious about bike rentals or have a bike lover in your crew? Check out Red Raven in Crosby, Minnesota. They have an immaculate collection of bikes, ranging from hardtails to e-bikes and bike accessories, and their very own Red Raven Bike Café with a delicious menu and plenty of coffee options.
LIVE TUNES AND TASTY BITES
Ready to get in the summer spirit a month or two early? Stop by The Launch Bar & Grill to sample this month’s specials for a delicious dining experience with gorgeous lake views. There’s also live music and entertainment happening just down the road at Grand Casino Mille Lacs all season long. You can check out their latest lineup here: https://www.grandcasinomn.com/Entertain