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Beautiful Secluded Lake Front Retreat | 100 yr old Log Lodge | Dog-Kid Friendly

Photo gallery for Beautiful Secluded Lake Front Retreat | 100 yr old Log Lodge | Dog-Kid Friendly

A breathtaking view of Briar Lake Lodge, showcasing the gorgeous scenery and highlighting the beauty of this log cabin.
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Experience the cozy warmth of the wood fireplace at North Shore Vacation Rentals, a pet-friendly retreat in Duluth, MN,
Sink into a plush sofa by the stone fireplace—perfect for reading, movies, games, or time with loved ones.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
5 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 16260.1 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Pet-friendly
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning
  • Outdoor barbecue

Explore the area

View map
Duluth, MN
  • Place, Lester River
    ‪18 min drive‬
  • Place, University of Minnesota Duluth
    ‪34 min drive‬
  • Place, Aerial Lift Bridge
    ‪40 min drive‬
  • Airport, Duluth, MN (DLH-Duluth Intl.)
    ‪39 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

5 bedrooms (sleeps 16)

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathroom 2

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Dining area

About this property

Beautiful Secluded Lake Front Retreat | 100 yr old Log Lodge | Dog-Kid Friendly

Briar Lake Lodge is a unique, beautiful log cabin built in 1923. 30 min from downtown Duluth, there is plenty to do year-round: fish, swim, kayak, snowshoe, and more. Enjoy an indoor 6-person sauna and a grand stone fireplace in the living room. There is a dock with a canoe, kayaks, and a paddleboat, as well as a large patio and a fire pit for family BBQ. A little piece of heaven. Large gatherings by request only.

*NOTE: Some amenities are only available in season.
The space
Charming and rustic, this 106-year-old log lodge offers beautiful views and features a grand stone fireplace. Situated on Briar Lake (also known as Trout Lake), the lodge provides year-round activities for the entire family. It includes three private bedrooms on the main floor (two with queen beds and one with a king bed) and two private lofts upstairs, each equipped with two queen beds (ladder-type stairs are required to access the lofts). Additionally, there is a full-sized hideaway couch for extra sleeping space.


SELF CHECK-IN:
Our self-check-in guest access system is designed to provide guests with a convenient way to check in without assistance.

We request that guests complete their check-in between 4:00 PM and 8:00 PM. This is to ensure we can help you effectively and prevent any inconvenience or difficulty in reaching us later in the day if you have any issues.

A door code and check-in directions will be included in your welcome letter, sent three days before your arrival.

OTHER IMPORTANT NOTES:
Dogs are welcome, but a nightly fee per dog applies. Please reach out with any questions or concerns about our dog rules before booking. ($35 per dog, per night)

There are three stairs down to the sauna and the primary bedroom.

Lofts do require climbing a ship-type ladder. Be sure to view photos if you are concerned!

Experience the thrill of ski adventure with our exclusive offer for North Shore Vacation Rental guests!

Purchase Spirit Mountain Ski Resort FULL-day ski lift pass vouchers at a special rate of $65, a fantastic saving from the regular price of $95 at the ticket counter.

GETTING SKI VOUCHERS:
• Request the total amount of vouchers at least 3 days before your arrival date.
• Pay additional fees post-reservation.
• We will deliver your vouchers to your home.
• Take the voucher to the ticket counter to redeem your lift tickets and sign a waiver.
• Vouchers can only be used during the dates of your reservation.
• Only an ADULT full-day lift ticket is available.
• No refunds for unused vouchers.

We do have a limited number of discounted vouchers. Book before they are all gone!

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 18
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

Events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events are allowed on site
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Duluth

Located in Duluth, this cabin is in a rural area and on the waterfront. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Lester River and Lester Park, while 3M Birthplace Museum and Lake County Historical Depot Museum are cultural highlights. Enjoy the area's slopes with cross-country skiing, snowboarding and skiing, and don't miss out on the ice skating.
View more Cabin rentals in DuluthOpens in a new window
Map
Duluth, MN

What's nearby

  • Lester River - 18 min drive - 22.4 km
  • University of Minnesota Duluth - 34 min drive - 41.4 km
  • Duluth Entertainment Convention Center - 39 min drive - 47.5 km
  • AMSOIL Arena - 39 min drive - 47.5 km
  • Aerial Lift Bridge - 40 min drive - 47.5 km

Getting around

  • Duluth, MN (DLH-Duluth Intl.) - 40 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Beautiful Secluded Lake Front Retreat | 100 yr old Log Lodge | Dog-Kid Friendly pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Beautiful Secluded Lake Front Retreat | 100 yr old Log Lodge | Dog-Kid Friendly?

As of 22 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Beautiful Secluded Lake Front Retreat | 100 yr old Log Lodge | Dog-Kid Friendly on 7 June 2026 start from AU$926, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Beautiful Secluded Lake Front Retreat | 100 yr old Log Lodge | Dog-Kid Friendly?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Beautiful Secluded Lake Front Retreat | 100 yr old Log Lodge | Dog-Kid Friendly?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Beautiful Secluded Lake Front Retreat | 100 yr old Log Lodge | Dog-Kid Friendly?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Beautiful Secluded Lake Front Retreat | 100 yr old Log Lodge | Dog-Kid Friendly located?

Situated on the waterfront, this cabin is 10.4 mi (16.7 km) from Lester River and within 20 miles (32 km) of Lakewood Town Hall and Lester Park. McQuade Small Craft Harbor and Hartley Park and Nature Center are also within 20 miles (32 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 105 out of 119 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 12 out of 119 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 119 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 119 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 119 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Olivia B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
So cozy, gorgeous, just the right balance of rustic and yet comfortable and thoughtful! We loved sitting on the porch to eat brunch and look out over the lake and having fires in the living room. Plus the sauna was a hit! Thank you!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Jan 2026
We are thrilled to hear that you loved NSVR's Briar Lake Lodge just as much as we do, Olivia! This 106-year-old log cabin is the ideal cozy getaway. It's glamping at its finest! The direct lake access, spacious yard, sauna, indoor and outdoor fireplaces, and beautiful porch are just a few of the many features that make this home so special. We hope to see you again soon!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kelly P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We loved our stay at Briar. This is our second year here. This home is so cozy and almost magical. We had a fire going in the fireplace all day. It was the best way to end our holiday!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brady K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The host was very welcoming and made sure we had everything prior to our arrival. The place was layed out very nice and plenty of space for myself and my 15 guests for a Batchelor party. Highly recommend
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Dec 2025
We are excited to hear that you and your friends had a fantastic stay at NSVR's Briar Lake Lodge! The rustic charm of this 106-year-old log cabin makes it a wonderful getaway for everyone. The handcrafted, one-of-a-kind dining room table is ideal for large gatherings, and the unique grand stone fireplace provides a cozy spot to relax and stay warm.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mackenzie H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The most beautiful cabin filled with every amenity you need for a secluded stay with loved ones in a beautiful place.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Sept 2025
We’re so happy to hear that you enjoyed the cabin and all the wonderful amenities! At NSVRMN, our goal is for every guest to feel right at home, so you can kick back, relax, and soak in the peace of nature along with those stunning views. We can’t wait to welcome you back to any of our North Shore Vacation Rentals in Duluth, MN
Verified

10/10 Excellent

KaYing V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The cabin was amazing. Our family had a great time there. Will definitely return!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Aug 2025
An excellent guest who is extremely easy to host. Would have you back any time and would recommend you to any other host. Just remember to review the check-out lists to ensure our cleaners can efficiently prepare the property for the next guest.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brian F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is a beautiful property with lots of character, space for large groups and very comfortable accommodations. Melissa does an excellent job of comminating throughout our stay and we would love to come back.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Aug 2025
What a great guest to host! So easy to communicate with, understanding about the quarks that can come with a 105-year-old lodge, cooperative, and left the place clean and tidy. NSVRMN recommends him and his group of 19 to any hosts (with enough space), and we would welcome them back to any of our large and spacious North Shore Vacation Rental properties any time.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

linus s.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Good stuff
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Sept 2025
Thank you for painting such a vivid and clear picture of what guests can expect when booking with North Shore Vacation Rentals in Duluth, MN. LOL. We are thrilled to hear that we met your expectations! However, we are curious about your need to park on the grass despite our multiple reminders not to. This feedback would be very beneficial for us as we seek to improve our communication with guests. Although we have signs in the yard and mentioned this in our communications several times, understanding your perspective will help us enhance our messaging. Thanks again!
Verified

8/10 Good

Matthew W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful cabin on a lake

Very beautiful cabin on the lake, very clean. Wish we had spent more time here but could only stay one night
Stayed 1 night in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 12 May 2025
We are glad you had such a wonderful stay at the Lake Lodge, even if it was short. When you visit next time, plan to stay and play yard games, have bonfires, grill outside on our 2 Barbeques, and of course... make time for kayaking, paddle boarding and fishing for trout on the lake! We would love for you to be able to have the full experience at the lodge! Thank you for your kind words, we would be happy to host you again! - The NSVR Family
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bretton L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful space to stay

My family enjoyed our stay! The place was exactly what we had hoped.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 22 July 2024
If you are referring to the beautiful log cabin next to the lake with lots of space for family and friends to gather, then yes! I hoped you got what you expected.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michael W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Annual Family Vacation

Our family of 4 generations, ages 1 to 83, had a wonderful time at this beautiful cabin on the lake. It was so peaceful and had all the comforts of home. We will definitely be coming back.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 7 July 2025
Michael, We are so glad your family of four generations could gather for a reunion at the lake! North Shore Vacation Rentals loves bringing families and friends together in our spacious properties to make new memories. We hope you enjoyed using the kayaks, fishing off the dock, grilling outside, gathering around our large table, and having campfires at night. We would be happy to host you again at any of our NSVR-MN properties! Come visit us again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jamie R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful cabin

This was a perfect place for a group of friends to meet for a girls weekend. The cabin was lovely with a good location and very cozy in the deep winter.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Feb 2025
Thanks a ton for coming! We’re so happy to hear that you and your girlfriends had a great time and enjoyed the weekend with us!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrew L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful stay in the North Woods

A very gorgeous property and cabin, well situated for larger groups with great views of the lake, a large dining area and plenty of outdoor seating.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 12 July 2024
So happy you enjoyed your stay. It's a perfect venue for a family gathering.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brianna L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Place!

This property was exactly what we were looking for. We had a great time! Beautiful cabin with beautiful views!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Nov 2024
We are so glad you enjoyed your stay with us. The Briar Lake cabin and lake is so special. It makes it a great place to relax and unwind. Please come back again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Calvin C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Bachlor Party

Had a blast. The sauna shower was a major highlight!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 2 July 2025
Calvin, we are thrilled to hear that your group enjoyed their time at our beautiful lodge on the lake! North Shore Vacation Rentals is impressed with the respect, cleanliness, and great communication your group demonstrated while gathering for the bachelor party. We hope you caught plenty of trout, spent the day playing yard games, enjoyed cooking delicious meals on the grills, and created lasting memories by the campfire. We would love to welcome any of you back to Briar Lake or to our other NSVRMN properties in Duluth! We hope to see you again soon!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mai Y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Clean

Feels like I was at my own home. Had everything we needed
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 7 June 2025
We are so glad you felt at home at our North Shore Vacation Rental property! At NSVR-MN, we strive to help every guest feel comfortable and relaxed... just like at home! We would be happy to have you at any of our Duluth, Minnesota properties to offer another great experience the next time you're in the area!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Debbie M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family Getaway

Beautiful property !! Beautiful views !! Wonderful family time together !! Very relaxing atmosphere !!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 22 July 2024
Briar Lake Lodge is the best gathering place for family and friends. Secluded but not too far from Duluth. Lake access and tons of things to do! Glad you had a great stay.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Samantha P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Adorable cabin

Our group had a great time. The cabin has everything you need for a quiet and fun getaway.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Dec 2022
So glad you enjoyed your stay Samantha! Happy Holidays and we hope you stay with us again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kay N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing time at the lake

This large log cabin was a very fun spot to stay. The cabin construction was amazing to examine. The large enclosed front porch has a beautiful view of the lake with loons and osprey. There are nice outdoor spaces too, for games and relaxing. Close enough to Duluth to do a few city things too. Clean and cozy. We would stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 20 May 2025
North Shore Vacation Rentals-MN is delighted that you and your group enjoyed the outdoors, as well as the stunning views of the lake and the birds. Every visitor to Briar Lake Lodge appreciates the opportunity to escape to a peaceful and quiet setting while still being close to town for restaurants, tourist attractions, or quick supplies. We are thrilled that you enjoyed these aspects as well! NSVR-MN would love to host you again if you’re looking for another getaway. Be sure to check out our other properties for more beautiful views and cozy, convenient locations!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mary C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A large, authentic log cabin with plenty of room and comfortable beds. We especially loved the front dining room with windows looking outover the lake and the patio/firepit.Briar Lake is a small, shallow lake with weeds and moderate clarity, so it wasn't ideal for swimming, but the kids and grandkids enjoyed the paddleboards....and the sauna was a nice feature.Great communication and very easy check-in and check-out. Very nice to have a washer/dryer and dishwasher.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 12 Dec 2025
We greatly appreciate your kind words and detailed review, Mary! We also love the peaceful, serene, relaxing atmosphere our Briar Lake Lodge offers! Enjoying some time out on the lake, followed up by a spacious, private sauna, and the option of an indoor or outdoor fire to end the night is truly a rare, yet fantastic opportunity! With all the amenities offered, including the washer and dryer, there is really no reason to leave. Yet, if you want to, it is just a 30-minute, scenic drive away from the livelihood of Duluth! We hope you come back soon!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Robben S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great winter getaway

Perfect for a group of friends with kids. The large fireplace was a big draw for us and it did not disappoint (though be sure to bring plenty of firewood to keep the flame going). We enjoyed playing in the snow with the kids out on the frozen lake and even found some nice Superior Hiking Trail hikes nearby, which were wonderful in the snow. Would absolutely stay again.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Jan 2025
We are so glad that you enjoyed Briar Lake Lodge. The fireplace and sauna are wonderful this time of the year. The fall and summer the firepit is a great place to gather too. We truly hope you come back and stay with us at any of our 9 properties in the Duluth and North Shore area.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Miranda H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful residence

Had our winter wedding there! And it was beautiful!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Feb 2024
Hi Miranda, I am wondering if you are willing to share some of your wedding photos with us to use on our website? Thanks
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bryce B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful place

This was a great place for a large group. Plenty of yard space and a great bonfire. The lodge is spacious and comfortable. Highly recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Aug 2023
Thank you Bryce! I am glad you and your friends had a great time!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Edward J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Weekend Away

We were all very impressed at the condition of the old log cabin given its age and impressed at the expansion/additional that had been done to the originally cabin. This place is a must stay and was an amazing time!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Sept 2023
Thank you Edward! Briar Lake Lodge is a 100-year old gem and we appreciate your enjoyment of it!!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kris D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family getaway

Wonderful weekend with my kids and their families. Kayaks and paddle boards were a hit. Loved the dining area… played games, had our meals and loved having morning coffee over looking the lake.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 25 June 2024
Thanks for coming, and enjoying our beautiful home! Hope you can come back.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Richard V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family Weekend at Briar Lake Lodge

The property is beautiful inside and out. Large eating area and large family room which consisted of the entire center of the lodge. Nice, large yard for outside activities.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Sept 2023
Thank you Richard. We are glad you enjoyed your stay even though the weather was not great! Hopefully your next visit is full of sunshine!

About the host

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