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Ossipee/Merrifield – 1 - 4 miles
Bobbers Restaurant & BBQ – Open Wednesday – Sunday 11:30 am – 9
pm. Ossipee - 218-765-4400
Breath of Life – Gentle, Restorative and Kundalini Yoga
classes. Private lessons available for groups of 4 or more. 218-765-3010.
The Hairafter – Many Spa Services, wave pool, hot tubs - 8
miles north on County Road 3. 218- 692-2019.
Paul Bunyan Trail – Public parking. Inquire at the office how
to bike right from the resort! The 110 miles of level, paved trail takes
cyclists through one of Minnesota’s most popular vacation areas from Crow Wing
State Park near Brainerd to Merrifield, Nisswa, Pequot Lakes, Pine River,
Backus, Hackensack and through the Chippewa National Forest, North to Bemidji
State Park.
Borden Farm – Vegetables, plants, eggs, walking paths – just
one mile from the resort. 218-232-0848
Half Moon Saloon - Eat in and take out, great burgers!
218-828-9025
Merrifield Café - Open for Breakfast & Lunch, and ice cream!
218-829-3060
Chip’s Pizza – Home of the 7 Pound Pizza! Delivery available.
218-824-6900
Super America – Fishing Licenses, Some Groceries, Snacks and
Bait - 5 am – 10 pm every day! 218-829-8672
Nearby Parks & Tennis
Public Tennis Court - 2.4 miles. Tennis Court, Playground, Hand
Water Pump.
Merrifield Lions Park - 4 miles. Baseball diamond, sheltered
picnic area, playground, and volleyball court.
Mission Park - 5.6 miles. Very Nice - Tennis Courts,
Playgrounds, Restrooms, Walking Paths.
Crosslake Recreational Park - 12 miles. Picnic shelter,
playground, indoor gym and tennis courts 218-692-4271.
Rentals and More…
Many vendors provide delivery/pickup/shuttle service for a fee.
Crosslake Rental - Jet Skis, Pontoons, Boats - 218-692-7368.
Dave’s Sportland Rental - Boats/Jet Skis/Water Toys, Nisswa,
218-963-2401.
Boats and Beyond - Boats/Jet Ski’s, Brainerd/Nisswa/Gull Lake,
218-963-7700.
Lake Fun Rentals - Canoes/Fishing Boats/Jet Skis/Pontoons,
Nisswa/Gull Lake, 218-961-0000.
Crystal Pierz Marine - Boats, Gull Lake, 218-963-7788.
Trailblazer Bikes - Official Bike Shop on the Paul Bunyan
Trail! Brainerd, 218-829-8542 Nisswa, 218-963-0699.
Cycle Path & Paddle - Canoes/Kayaks/Paddleboats/Hydro
bikes/Bicycles/In-line Skates/Shuttle service available for the Mississippi and
Pine Rivers and the Mine Lakes of the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area by
appointment. Crosby, 218-545-4545.
Easy Riders Bicycle & Sportshop - Canoe and Kayak Outfitters
for the Mississippi River to Crow Wing State Park, Riverton to Lum Park,
Brainerd, Crow Wing River, or one of your favorite lakes in Crow Wing or Cass
Counties/Bicycle Rentals/Helmets/Repairs/In-line Skates/Bait/Guide
Services/Licenses Brainerd, 218-829-5516.
Minnesota School of Diving, Inc - 712 Washington Street
Brainerd, 218-829-5953.
Fishing Guides
Mike Lepel – Lake Edward, 218-765-8306, 888-492-5539.
A-1 Fishing Guide Service, Brainerd,
218-829-1846.
Walleyedan's Guide Service, Lake Shore,
218-839-5598.
Royal's Fishing Guide Service, Brainerd,
218-829-6672.
S & W Bait and Tackle, Brainerd,
218-829-7010.
Mini Golf
Pirates Cove Adventure Golf - Mountain caves, footbridges and waterfalls on two 18-hole courses,
Brainerd, 218-828-9002.
Wildwedge Golf, Mini Golf & Maze - Mystery Maze, Par 3 golf course,
driving range, tropical clubhouse, picnic
shelter, Pequot Lakes 218-568-6995.
Whistling Wolf Mini Golf and Gifts - Crosslake, 218-692-7888.
Bump N' Putt Family Fun - Pequot Lakes, 218-568-8833.
Horseback Riding/Wagon Rides
Pine River Riding Stable - Pine River, 218
587-5807.
Benvelle Equestrian Center - Pequot Lakes,
218 568-4826.
Outback Trail Rides, Inc, - Pillager, 218 746-3990.
Water Parks
(all in Baxter)
The Lodge at Brainerd Lakes - 218-822-5634.
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites - 218-824-3232.
Comfort Suites/Rapid River Lodge & Water Park - 218-825-7234.
Casinos- Either one
is about one hour from Shing Wako.
Grand Casino, Mille Lacs 1-800-626-5825.
Northern Lights Casino, Walker 218-547-2744.
Crosslake – 10 miles
Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway - Free! Tour in your cars, pedal your
bikes, or just put on some good walking shoes. This is 54 miles of stunning
scenery through the cities of Pequot Lakes, Breezy Point, Crosslake, Manhattan
Beach, Pine River, and Jenkins. Podcasts and interpretive kiosks tell the
stories of these communities, history, and local folk-lore.
City of Crosslake Park - Free! Whether you're standing on the
overlook watching the rushing water or casting a line into the current, the Pine
River Dam in Crosslake is a sight to see! The recreational area offers camping,
boating, swimming, picnicking, fishing and an abundance of water related
recreational opportunities on 37 acres.
Crosslake Historic Log Village – Free! The village takes you
back in time with a replica village of furnished buildings from the 1800's –
some original log structures, and two that are new. There is an original log
schoolhouse, general store, homestead, logger’s camp, saloon, tourist cabin,
livery and Crosslake's original town hall! Staffed Hours: Sat and Sun 11 am – 4
pm Memorial – Labor Day. Open daytime hours for self-guided tours.
Uppgaard Wildlife Management Area – Free! 18 miles. 110 acres
of landscaped wildlife habitat. As one of the few non-game wildlife areas,
Uppgaard is perfect for nature watching with wide, well-packed woodland trails.
The area features FREE guided tours during the summer, departing every Wed. at
9:30 am.
Nisswa - 10 miles
Turtle Races –This is a great way to enjoy a summer day where
hundreds of spectators gather in downtown Nisswa. Turtles will be provided at
the race site; if you choose to bring your own turtle the official racing button
must still be purchased. Each racer is given a pre-assigned race number. When
the event begins, numbers will be announced and paid participants will step
forward to receive a turtle to race or use their own. Winners will receive an
official turtle ribbon. Wednesdays through August 11; Registration begins at 1
pm.
Historic Pioneer Village – Free! Made up of a number of
buildings, each offering a unique glimpse at people and styles of the late
1800's and early 1900s. Visitors to downtown Nisswa can take a self-guided tour
through the village and see the one-room school house, bank, and other replica
buildings. The four homesteads feature furniture and items reminiscent of those
brought from the "old country" by German, Norwegian, and Swedish immigrants.
Brainerd/Baxter – 12 miles
Paul Bunyan Land and This Old Farm Pioneer Village - 19 miles.
For 60 years the 26 foot tall animated Paul Bunyan has greeted youngsters by
name, 40 amusement rides and attractions. 30 building Pioneer Village, Vintage
farm machinery, automobiles and antiques. The 26 foot tall Paul Bunyan was moved
from the Chicago Railroad Fair to Brainerd in 1951. A visit each summer to see
and hear Paul has been a family tradition. Open daily 10 am - 6 pm Memorial Day
through Labor Day 218-764-2524.
Brainerd International Raceway - 14 miles. BIR has come a long
way since its modest beginnings 40 years ago. Its colorful history and
world-class racing has helped put Brainerd on the map, and continues to do so
annually. May through September you can find major road and drag racing
events here. Aug. 18-21 Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals. N on Hwy 371, 218-824-7223.
Minnesota Fishing Hall of Fame - Free! 13 miles, in
Gander Mountain in Baxter. Numerous legendary anglers hail from the Gopher State
and the detailed, informative displays located within the hall of fame are
dedicated to showcasing their great accomplishments over the years: Al Lindner,
Gary Roach, Al Maas, and other famous Minnesota fishermen.
Brainerd Historic Walk - Free! Discover the
rich and varied history and stories of what was first known as the Crossing. The
Brainerd History Group in conjunction with other community groups, is dedicated
to celebrating this history and making it come alive in the 21st century.
Northland Arboretum - Nearly 12 miles of trails for hiking and
cross-country skiing. The Northland Arboretum showcases a variety of flowers, trees and wildlife among
the 500 acres of natural beauty.
Kiwanis Park - Free! Accessible - 12 miles on the Mississippi
River. 37 acres, fishing piers, playground, canoe launch,
paved trail, restrooms, and pavilions. 1101 East River Road in Brainerd.
Lum Park - Free! Accessible - 12 miles on the Mississippi
River. 38 acres in size and features disc golf, pavilions, boat landing, fishing
pier, sand beach volleyball court, and playground. 1619 NE Washington Street,
Brainerd.
Shopping in Downtown Brainerd - Downtown Brainerd is fortunate
to have many of its older buildings still standing, filled with unique,
locally-owned shops and restaurants creating a pedestrian friendly commercial
district with authentic Midwest town charm. National Registered historic
buildings in Downtown include the old Brainerd Public Library on Washington
Street, the Brainerd Water Tower, and the Parker Building (E.L. Menk Jewelers).
Mann Westgate Movies 10 - 218-828-6228
Lakes Area Yoga - Nonprofit organization bringing quality
yoga at affordable prices to the area since 1995. Drop-ins
welcome! 218-829-7029.
Pequot Lakes – 15 miles
Paul Bunyan Lore - Free! While in our community we invite you
to explore the folk-lore of Paul Bunyan as he left behind his favorite fishing
bobber, chair and foot prints for you to see.
Market in the Park - Start your morning with free Yoga near the
new band shelter on the north block of the Trailside Park. Afterwards, wander
down the Paul Bunyan Trail for the fresh produce, business booths, flea market,
new/used items, and food vendors. Kids will enjoy the Bobber Hunt and Bobber
Bowling. Thursdays during July and August.
Fire Tower - Free! Climb the Nationally Registered Historic DNR
fire tower east of Pequot Lakes, looming above the Jack Pines. It provides a
15-mile scenic view of the area. The foundation of the forester's home still
exists at the base
of the tower.
Sunset Cinema - 218-568-4341.
Crosby – 18 miles
Antique Capital of the Lakes Area - Years ago, Kay Johnson
decided she had accumulated too many antiques and collectibles, she and her
husband purchased two buildings on Main Street in the heart of Crosby. Kay's
goal was to "make Crosby cute." She got busy and recruited many dealers to form
a co-op. Within a few years, other buildings opened up, including two large
antique shops which are open all year around. Since then, other shops have also
opened their doors. In 1998, Minnesota Governor, Arne Carlson,
took notice of this effort and proclaimed Crosby as the "Antique Capital of the
Lakes Area."
Little Falls – 44 miles
Pine Grove Zoo & Primeval Park –Meander down paved paths and
view a variety of exotic, native and domestic animals at home in their spacious,
natural habitats. Interactive signs, a petting stable, walking trails, large
picnic and playground area. May - Sept; Mon - Fri 10 am - 6 pm, Sat -
Sun 10 am - 7 pm. Admission fees apply. 320 - 616-5595.
Charles A Lindberg Historical Site & Driving Tour –The famous
aviator spent boyhood summers and a few winters at this home on the Mississippi.
Now you can enjoy its cozy kitchen, hear the whisper of the pines from the porch
where he slept, or walk by the river where he dreamed of flight. The newly
remodeled visitor center with state of the art exhibits tells more of the family
story. Memorial Day through Labor Day, Thurs - Sat 10 am - 5 pm and Sun Noon - 5
pm, closed Mon through Wed except for holidays.
General E.A. Walsh Training Center/Camp Ripley & Camp Ripley
Environmental Center – 36 miles. Offers a wide variety of group tours
to suit any age. Briefings are available for those interested in taking an in
depth look at how today’s National Guard soldiers train. The award winning
Environmental program at Camp Ripley offers tours and briefings for military
personnel and civilians. Camping and fishing are available to military personnel
and retirees only. 9:30 am – 3:30 pm, 320-632-7400.
Minnesota State Parks Near Shing Wako
Resort
2012 Minnesota State Parks Permits are valid for one year from the month of
purchase.
Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area – 20 miles near Crosby and
part of the MN state park system. State Park
Permit not needed, except for camping. Trout stamp is required for fishing.
The crystal clear mine
pit lakes provide unbelievable fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and scuba diving
opportunities on 27 lakes - some up to 500 feet deep with water clarity of up to
90 feet - draw a wide range of recreation enthusiasts. 25 miles of natural
shoreline can be explored by boat or canoe and anglers can cast a line for
trout, northern, bass, crappie or sunfish. Also: A new 24 mile mountain biking
course, birding opportunities, paved biking, in-line skating, running, walking
and horseback riding. If you like a little drama with your leisure, you'll find
it at the Cuyuna Range Mine Pit Lakes. Family Friendly Interpretive Exhibit At
Croft Mine Historical Park - Sat and Sun, between Memorial Day weekend and Labor
Day. Additional fee for tours, 218-546-5926.
Crow Wing State Park – 23 miles, S of Brainerd. This is a nature lover's
delight. Explore prairie, pine, and hardwood forests. View the Mississippi River
from historic and picturesque "Chippewa Lookout." Novice canoeists can paddle
the calm waters of the Crow Wing and Mississippi Rivers. In this area, a
frontier town emerged to serve the needs of travelers and traders. The town died
when the railroad chose to cross the river at Brainerd. Walk through the site of
the Old Crow Wing Village and a section of the famous Woods Trail, which served
ox cart traffic that carried supplies between St. Paul and the Red River
settlements. Park Highlights - Scenic Hiking Trails, Canoeing/Mississippi River,
Fishing, Historic Sites and Wildlife Observation. Sun - Thurs 9 am - 4 pm, Fri and Sat 9 am - 9 pm. 218-825-3075.
Mille Lacs Kathio State Park - 45 miles, near Onamia.
The park’s 9000 years of human history and archaeological significance at Petaga
Point Archaeological Site has made it a National Historic Landmark. Climb the
100 foot observation/fire tower and look across the majesty of Mille Lacs Lake.
Take part in Mille Lacs Kathio State Park's extensive interpretive/nature
programs or get out by yourself and hike on the park's varied trail system.
Kathio
has a wonderful swimming beach and playgrounds, plus canoes or rowboats you can
rent for a trip on the historic Rum River and Ogechie and Shakopee lakes. The
river, lakes, and park trails offer visitors excellent opportunities to watch
waterfowl, bald eagles, osprey, beaver, loons, deer, coyotes, and many others.
Interpretive Center open Sat, 10 am to 4 pm, call 320-532-3523 Fri – Sun, leave
message.
Father Hennepin State Park – 60 miles. SE shore of Mille Lacs
Lake. Visitors enjoy a large sandy beach for swimming, two boat accesses,
fishing piers and picnic sites with a panoramic view of the lake. The park's 320
acres include two campgrounds and hiking trails that wind through a hardwood
forest and along the rocky shoreline of Mille Lacs.
Handicapped Fishing Piers, Sandy Beach, Home of Several Albino Deer. From the
town of Isle, go 1 mile W on Highway 27 to park entrance. Summer: Sun - Wed 9 am
- 8 pm Thurs and Sat 9 am – 9 pm and Fri 9 am – 10 pm. Spring and Fall: Daily
9am - 4:30pm. 320-676-8763.
Itasca State Park – 90 miles, N of Park Rapids.
Established in 1891, Itasca is Minnesota's oldest state park. Today, the park
totals more than 32,000 acres and includes more than 100 lakes. Walk across the
mighty Mississippi as it starts its winding journey 2,552 miles to the Gulf of
Mexico. Stand under towering pines at Preacher's Grove. Visit the Itasca Indian
Cemetery or Wegmann's Cabin, landmarks of centuries gone by. Visit the Mary
Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Center and the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center. Be
sure to take the short walk to the Headwaters of the Mississippi River, which
offers visitors a glimpse of this historic location. Picnic areas, swimming
beach, playground, bike rentals, walking and biking paths, hiking, fishing,
Boat, motor, pontoon, paddleboat, kayak, canoe and bike rental located at the
Lake Itasca boat access. Best time to reach the park: Daily from 8:30 am to 4
pm, 218-699-7251.
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