The most remote communities in the Land of 10,000 Lakes are Oak Island and Angle Inlet, both in the Northwest Angle and separated from the rest of the state by Lake of the Woods. The most remote town in Minnesota that’s not cut off from the rest of the state, however, is probably Crane Lake – and it’s definitely worth a visit.

Crane Lake is a small community of around 100 people in far northern Minnesota, spitting distance from the Canadian border.
Visit Crane Lake/Facebook
It’s sandwiched between Voyageurs National Park and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, surrounded by the Superior National Forest.
Given its location, Crane Lake is a gateway for outdoor adventure in the Bold North.
Josh/Flickr
This is reflected in its businesses, which largely consist of resorts and outfitters.
Taking some time to explore the area, it’s clear to see why the community’s residents live in this gorgeous part of the state - and why so many others come to visit.
briandjan607/Flickr
Vermilion Falls, for example, is just one of the area’s natural wonders.
Hikers will enjoy being so close to Voyageurs National Park, as well as the area’s many trails.
Mikhala Bornstein/Alltrails
The ​​Vermilion Gorge Trail, for example, is a moderately challenging, three-mile out-and-back trail along the Vermilion River’s stunning canyon.

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The town’s namesake body of water, Crane Lake, attracts anglers, paddlers, and boaters.
Visit Crane Lake/Facebook
It’s also an entry point for the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
The adventure doesn’t cease when the water freezes.
Visit Crane Lake/Facebook
Ice anglers, cross-country skiers, snowmobilers, and snowshoers all find plenty of action during the winter at Crane Lake.
A handful of eateries, like Crane Lake Bar and Grill, will ensure that you have all the fuel you need for your adventures.
Crane Lake Bar and Grill/Facebook
(And maybe a little WiFi connectivity if you really must get in touch with the outside world)
No matter what time of year you visit, the area’s dark skies and northern latitude almost always have a treat in store - whether it’s the Milky Way painted across the firmament or the aurora borealis dancing overhead.
Visit Crane Lake/Facebook

It may take some effort to get there, but Crane Lake’s remoteness is a big part of its allure. You’ll find a handful of well-known resorts in Crane Lake, as well as several stellar vacation rentals in the area. On your way up, be sure to pay a visit to the charming community of Orr, as well – it’s about half an hour southwest of Crane Lake, along U.S. Route 53, and you’ll probably have to go through it, anyway.

Have you visited Crane Lake? Tell us about your experience – or any other remote towns in Minnesota you think we should know about – in the comments.

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Crane Lake, MN 55725, USA