If you're planning a trip to Gull Lake in the Brainerd Lakes Area, you're in for one of Minnesota’s best lake destinations. Located near the charming town of Nisswa, Gull Lake offers incredible boating, fishing, dining, and outdoor adventures for families and groups.
Whether you're visiting for a summer lake vacation, a fall getaway, or a winter weekend, here are the best things to do near Gull Lake.
1. Spend the Day Boating on Gull Lake
Gull Lake is one of the largest and most popular lakes in Minnesota. Rent a pontoon, wake boat, or fishing boat and spend the day exploring the lake’s beautiful bays and islands.
Activities include:
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Tubing
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Wake surfing
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Cruising to lakeside restaurants
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Swimming in quiet bays
2. Go Fishing
Gull Lake is known for excellent fishing year-round.
You can catch:
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Walleye
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Bass
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Northern Pike
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Crappie
Fishing is fantastic in both summer and winter with ice fishing huts available nearby.
3. Explore Downtown Nisswa
The nearby town of Nisswa is one of the most charming towns in the Brainerd Lakes Area.
Highlights include:
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Local boutiques
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Ice cream shops
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Coffee shops
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Summer turtle races (a family favorite)
4. Bike the Paul Bunyan Trail
The Paul Bunyan Trail is one of Minnesota’s most scenic biking trails.
The trail offers:
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Over 100 miles of paved biking
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Beautiful forest views
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Access to multiple towns and lakes
You can rent bikes nearby or bring your own.
5. Play Golf at World-Class Courses
The Brainerd Lakes Area is famous for golf.
Top courses include:
These courses are ranked among the best in the Midwest.
6. Enjoy Lakeside Dining
One of the best parts of visiting Gull Lake is boating to dinner.
Popular restaurants include:
Many offer outdoor patios and incredible sunset views.
7. Watch the Sunset on the Dock
Sometimes the best activity is simply relaxing.
Grab a drink, sit on the dock, and watch the sun set over Gull Lake. The colors across the water are unforgettable.
8. Visit the Nisswa Turtle Races (Summer)
Every Wednesday in summer, downtown Nisswa hosts the famous turtle races.
Kids love cheering on their turtle competitors, and the whole town comes out to watch.
9. Kayak or Paddleboard the Lake
For a slower pace, explore the quiet shoreline by paddleboard or kayak.
Early morning paddles are especially peaceful when the lake is calm.
10. Go Hiking in the Brainerd Lakes Area
There are beautiful trails nearby for hiking and exploring nature.
Great options include:
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Pillsbury State Forest
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Crow Wing State Park
Planning Your Gull Lake Vacation
Gull Lake is the perfect destination for:
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Family vacations
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Couples getaways
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Golf trips
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Fishing trips
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Group retreats
If you're looking for a luxury lake home with incredible views and space for everyone, consider staying at OneLife on Gull Lake.
Our lake home offers:
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Spacious living areas
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Hot tub overlooking the lake
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Game room for families
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Private dock and lake access
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Room for large groups