Lax Lake

While there isn't a single designated trail that circles the entire lake, Route 31, which runs along the northern edge of Lax Lake, offers a scenic experience. It feels more like a forest road, surrounded by beech, oak, and pine trees, making it suitable for easy walks or leisurely drives. For more extensive hiking, Lax Lake's proximity to Tettegouche State Park provides access to a wide range of trails, from moderate to challenging, just a short drive away.

Yes, Lax Lake is considered family-friendly. The calm waters are ideal for canoeing, kayaking, and swimming, especially at the Lax Lake Resort's swimming beach. For easy walks, the forest road along Route 31 offers a gentle, scenic path. The lake's diverse fishery also makes it a great spot for families to try fishing, with opportunities to catch walleye, pike, and bass.

Generally, dogs are welcome in many outdoor areas around Lax Lake, especially on public lands and forest roads like Route 31. However, it's always best to check specific regulations for any state park trails or private resort properties you plan to visit, as rules can vary. Always keep dogs on a leash and clean up after them to preserve the natural environment.

There is a public concrete boat ramp with a dock and parking available on the northeast shore of Lax Lake, providing convenient access for visitors. This is the primary public access point. For trails within nearby Tettegouche State Park, specific trailhead parking areas are available at the park's entrances.

Lax Lake offers distinct experiences throughout the year. Summer is ideal for water activities like swimming, boating, and fishing. Fall brings stunning foliage, making it a picturesque time for scenic drives and hiking. Winter transforms the lake into a destination for ice fishing and snowshoeing, though trails may be less maintained. Spring offers a quieter experience as nature reawakens.

Lax Lake is a popular destination for ice fishing during the winter months, with walleye, northern pike, and bass being common catches. The frozen lake and surrounding areas also provide opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, offering a peaceful winter wilderness experience.

Lax Lake Resort, a historic family-run establishment, offers accommodations, a camp store, and boat rentals directly on the lake. For more extensive dining and shopping options, the nearby towns of Silver Bay (approximately 4 miles south) and Finland, Minnesota (about 5 miles north), provide cafes, pubs, and other services.

Yes, Lax Lake's clear, oligotrophic waters are suitable for swimming. The Lax Lake Resort offers a designated swimming beach for its guests. Public access points, such as the boat landing, can also be used for swimming, though they may not have dedicated beach facilities. Always exercise caution and be aware of boat traffic when swimming in open water.

Beyond the main lake, exploring the less developed shoreline areas can reveal quiet coves and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, including moose and bald eagles. The scenic drive along Route 31, which feels like a secluded forest road, is a hidden gem in itself, offering a tranquil immersion into the surrounding woods.

Lax Lake is named after the Johannes Waxlax family, Swedish immigrants who settled in the area in 1894 and established the first homestead. The area was once a bustling logging community in the early 1900s. In 1928, John Waxlax, Johannes's son, transformed the family's presence by opening Lax Lake Resort, shifting the local economy from logging to tourism, a legacy that continues today.