Fall Colors Cabin Getaway on Gull Lake near Bemidji, MN
One of our favorite times to be at the resort is when the maples, oak, and birch trees develop their fall color. It's much quieter in the campground and on the lake. A fall cabin at Eagle Ridge Resort is the perfect place to do some canoeing, enjoy a late-night fire, and photograph spectacular color in the Minnesota northwoods. It's the perfect couples getaway or a memorable fall family trip.
Check availabilityWhy You Should Book Your Stay Between September & October
Some of the best peak colors in the north Bemidji area happen from mid-September to late October. Birch turns yellow, a beautiful contrast against the white bark and one of the best trees to photograph here. Oaks go a deep burgundy red and hold their leaves the longest, which is ideal for a later October trip. Maples are arguably the best, with a brilliant fire red.
- Crisp, cool mornings and fresh air, with Gull Lake much quieter and more restful than summer.
- Flexible shorter stays in the shoulder season, ideal for a long weekend getaway.
- No mosquitoes or flies this time of year.
A quieter season on the lake
Cool evenings by the fire, calm water for a paddle, and color coming in across the northwoods.
When are the colors at their peak?
Find out when the Minnesota DNR estimates the best fall colors for our area. They have an interactive fall color finder you can use to plan your trip up north. These are estimates, so you can always call our office to confirm.
"This is a beautiful, well-run, family owned resort. We loved it and look forward to camping there again."
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Read more guest reviewsCabins for a fall trip
Four cabins are a great fit for fall colors, each with a nice view of the lake. Here is a quick look.
Cabin 2
- 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
- Nice view of the lake
- WiFi and Roku TV
- Mini-split heat and air
Cabin 4
- 2 bedrooms with 3 queen beds
- Nice view of the lake
- Dishwasher, washer and dryer
- WiFi, Roku TV, central heat and air
Cabin 5
- New in 2023, 4 bedrooms
- Nice view of the lake
- Dishwasher
- WiFi, Roku TV, central heat and air
Cabin 7
- 4 bedrooms plus a loft
- Nice view of the lake, cozy fireplace
- Dishwasher, washer and dryer
- WiFi, Roku TV, central heat and air
Things to do at Eagle Ridge Resort and nearby
Fall is a slower, more peaceful season up here. A few of our favorite ways to spend it:
- Leaf drives on routes like Scenic Highway NE out of Blackduck, with hilly views and sweeping turns.
- Hiking the area trails. Buena Vista State Forest has miles of trails through woods and lakes, and Movil Maze is a good spot to hike with dogs. There is even a wooded hiking loop on our property!
- Late-season fishing as the water cools, with walleye on live-bait rigs and bass on swim baits and crankbaits.
- Boating and canoeing on a peaceful lake, with the leaves reflecting off the water.
- Campfires with s'mores and hot cocoa after dark.
- Outdoor games like horseshoes, cornhole, and volleyball in the cooler weather.
- Reading outside, or cards and board games in the lodge.
- Cozy up in the evening and stream your favorite show on our free Wi-Fi.
- Birdwatching. We have seen over 50 species of birds at the resort.
- Explore the bog walk hidden in the Lost 40 nearby.
- Visit Lake Itaska and Itasca State Park
Common questions about a fall stay
What is the weather like in September?
Early September highs run in the mid-70s with lows in the mid-50s, comfortable during the day and good bonfire weather at night. By late September, highs are in the 60s with lows in the 40s, so bring a sweatshirt and a few layers for the evenings.
What is the weather like in October?
Early October highs are usually in the 60s with lows in the 40s, so pack clothes you can layer. By late October, highs are in the mid-40s to low 50s with lows near freezing, so bring a warm jacket just in case.
When are peak fall colors at the resort?
We start to see 10 to 25 percent of color in mid-September, some years a week earlier. By October 1st we are around 50 percent, and between about October 7th and 19th we reach 100 percent of peak color. You can compare prior years on the Minnesota DNR site.
What types of trees have color here?
Aspen, poplar, birch, oak, maple, and ash grow on and near our property.
Can I bring my dog in the fall?
Dogs are welcome. There is a small charge of $15 per day or $75 per week. We ask that you clean up after them, keep them leashed, and do not leave them alone in the cabin.
What clothes should I pack for fall?
In early September, pack shorts and t-shirts for midday and jeans and a sweatshirt for the evening. In late September and October, add long sleeves and layers. In late October, bring a warm jacket and a hat just in case.
Is there a minimum nightly stay in September and October?
Our minimum stay in September and October is 3 nights. You can see all openings in our booking calendar.
We want a weekend for two. Which cabins are best in fall?
Cabins 2, 4, 5, and 7 all suit a fall trip and each has a nice view of the lake. Cabin 4, with 2 bedrooms, is a comfortable choice for two. Call us at (218) 586-2700 and we will match you with the right one.
Can we have campfires in the fall?
Yes, campfires are allowed in the fall. Every cabin has a fire ring, and cool fall evenings are one of the best times for one.
How is the fishing in September and October on Gull Lake?
The fish are usually more active in the fall, fattening up for the winter. As the water cools, walleye feed more aggressively on live-bait rigs and bass hit swim baits and crankbaits well. Fall is a quiet, productive time to fish Gull Lake.
Fall weekends book up as the colors come in
Check availability for your cabin and plan your trip to the northwoods.
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