I Checked Out For A Weekend At This Historic Boundary Waters Lodge In Minnesota

I took a few days to escape into the Northwoods this summer, and it was a fantastic break from my daily routine. I stayed on a lake with a Boundary Waters entry point, north of the Gunflint Trail and just south of the Canadian border, about 30 miles outside of Grand Marais, MN. But I wasn't roughing it - not by long shot. Rather, I stayed in a room at the historic Clearwater Lodge in Minnesota, the first and oldest such lodge in the area. Cooler still, the room rates were super reasonable! If you love this part of our gorgeous state, you definitely have to check out Clearwater Lodge.

You'll find Clearwater Lodge near the end of a narrow gravel road that leads to BWCAW entry point no. 62 on Clearwater Lake.

The log-constructed lodge is exactly what I picture when I think of what a Northwoods resort should look like.

Clearwater opened as the first lodge along the Gunflint Trail in 1915.

Construction on the main building was completed in 1926, and today it's listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

On the main level, you'll find a dining room where breakfast is served. It's included in the room rates for those staying in the main lodge's five guest rooms and available at a cost to anyone else who signs up a day in advance.

There's also a common area with books, games, and comfortable, log-hewn furniture.

A massive stone fireplace, of course, serves as the focal point for the common area. A lodge shop offers snacks, drinks, sundries, gifts, and apparel, as well.

My favorite spot, though, was the massive wrap-around porch. Hightops and Adirondack chairs ensure plenty of seating for those wishing to take the air. Several sets of binoculars - and even bird guides - are available on the porch, as well. If you visit during summer, you'll definitely want to have some ​​insect protection with you when you sit out in the evening.

I stayed in Charlie's Room. It was cozy - and it shares a bathroom and shower with two other rooms in the lodge - but it was perfect. The bed, frankly, was one of the most comfortable I've ever slept in.

A couple of larger suites are also available in the lodge. The suites do have their own in-room bathrooms and showers. Those looking for more space could also consider one of the lodge's rental cabins. Folks on a budget - or those heading into or out of the BWCA - also have the option of a spot in the lodge's bunkhouse.

I was treated to gorgeous sunrise views from my window each morning I woke up in the lodge. Calling loons were my alarm clock.

The lodge is often used as a jumping off point for paddlers heading into the Boundary Waters. You can also enter the BWCAW via the Clearwater/Daniels Lake Trail, a spur of the ​​Border Route Trail. A trail head is located right on the lodge's property.

Clearwater has its own outfitter right on property and can help get your BWCAW adventure launched.

Those for whom the lodge is the destination - like me - can take advantage of canoe and kayak rentals to explore gorgeous Clearwater Lake.

Even with the lodge and a few cabins on the lake, you may find no other traffic on the water but the occasional ​​family of loons.

I adored my stay at Clearwater Lodge - it was over too soon, and I can't wait to go back. For more information, rates, or to make reservations, visit Clearwater Lodge on the web; and check out the lodge's Facebook page for updates and photos. Be sure to visit nearby Poplar Haus for dinner at least once while staying at Clearwater.

If you're wondering where to stay in the Boundary Waters - or near the BWCAW, rather - it doesn't get much better than Clearwater. Have you stayed at historic Clearwater Lodge in Minnesota? Tell us about your experience in the comments!