The Perfect Summertime Adventure Weekend at The BirchBox

There’s something about summer in Cuyuna that feels like coming home to yourself. The red dirt, the smell of the northwoods, and the soft ripple of wind across the mine lakes — it’s the kind of place that invites you to pause. For the best experience, we always recommend a 3-night stay:

1. Because you more than deserve an extra day to unplug and step away from the busy-ness life throws at us all.
2. Because we’ve found that, rather than a quick 2-night escape, the extra night allows you to experience the best of Cuyuna summer while still building in the kind of rest we’re all so often missing.

With that in mind, here’s our ideal Thursday–Sunday itinerary to make the most of a summertime adventure weekend at The BirchBox — full of fresh air, local flavor, and space to breathe.

Thursday Evening: Arrival & Unwind

You’ve made it! Drop your bags, take a breath, and settle in. Whether you opt for a soak in the hot tub under a canopy of trees or light a fire for some first-night s’mores, tonight’s about switching gears. Cozy up on the bluff with a drink in hand and catch your first taste of the view.

On clear nights, don’t forget to look up — the Milky Way is often visible, and if you're lucky, northern lights may dance in the sky. Download the Aurora app to keep tabs on activity.

Friday: Ride, Refuel & Relax

Morning
Start the day slow with a patio breakfast. Fire up the flat-top grill on the covered deck for eggs, sausage, pancakes, fresh fruit — whatever suits your style.

Then head into town and swing by Red Raven for a pre-ride latte. If you haven’t brought your own wheels, this is our go-to spot to rent bikes. Their energy is unmatched and the bike techs are some of the best in the business.

Off to the trails: Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area is home to world-class mountain biking. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned rider, there’s something for you:

• Beginner? Try the wide, welcoming Sagamore unit — home to Minnesota’s adaptive trails.

• Looking to push it? Bobsled is a thrilling, flowy trail with epic views and switchbacks.

Afternoon
Loop back to Red Raven post-ride for a beer and casual lunch — sandwiches, wraps, and all the good vibes. Then head back to the cabin to relax.

Evening
Unwind with a soak in the hot tub, or relax along the bluff with your favorite beverage in hand. You might even spot one of our resident bald eagles hunting the Mississippi River below. Cap the evening with a campfire and s’mores under a sky full of stars.

Guest Review Highlight:

"This has been our favorite stay so far. Beautiful and fun home with so much to do around the area. The hot tub is a great addition, especially after a day of mountain biking at Cuyuna. Couldn't recommend this place enough!"

Saturday: Paddle, Explore, Savor

Morning
Another slow, sunny breakfast on the patio. Then make your way to Cuyuna Outfitters to gear up for a paddle adventure. Whether it’s a kayak, paddleboard, or clear-bottom canoe, they’ve got you covered.

The mine lakes are unlike anything else — crystal-clear water, submerged trees, and trout swimming below. It’s a surreal, peaceful way to take in the beauty of Cuyuna.

Afternoon Options
Make it your own:
- Hike (or drive) up to Miner’s Mountain Overlook for a panoramic view of Cuyuna’s lake country.
- Walk the 3-mile Milford Mine Memorial Park trail.
- Sip a locally brewed beer at Cuyuna Brewing Co.
- Enjoy wood-fired pizza at Rafferty’s in downtown Crosby.

Evening
Wrap up with another hot tub session or quiet night around the firepit. Don't forget to look up again — you never know when the northern lights will show.

Sunday Morning: One Last Slow Moment

We know you won’t want to leave, so don’t rush it. Brew a final cup of coffee, soak in that crisp woodland air, and enjoy the stillness of the Northwoods one last time from the bluff.

Final Thoughts

Summer in Crosby and Cuyuna is the kind of experience that lives in your bones. The trails, the mine lakes, the vibrant small-town energy — and the space to reset.

Book your 3-night stay at The BirchBox now and come see why this place has become one of Minnesota's most beloved adventure destinations.

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*All photography by the talented Gesso Design Co.