Cook, Minnesota Phone: (828)625-2525 Website: Lake Vermilion
Lake Vermilion is in northeastern Minnesota. National Geographic has declared Lake Vermilion as one of the ten most scenic lakes in the United States. The lake has 1,200 miles of shoreline, 135 islands, 40,000 acres of water, and is located in the Superior National Forest. Sunsets here are particularly spectacular. Fishing is big here, and the lake is known for its walleye, bass, northern pike, crappie, and muskie.
The lake boasts several places to stay for families. One of the best is Ludlow's Island Resort. This three star, three diamond lodge is operated by the Ludlows and their four children, and is extremely family oriented. Activities for families include hiking, tennis, golf, racquetball, boating, swimming, waterskiing, and relaxing in the sauna.
Accommodations are in 20 North Woods cabins located in the pines around the perimeter of the island. These include several luxury cabins, some of which have more than two stories of living space and can sleep up to 10 guests. Boat rentals are also available here, and its wise to reserve these early as they are very popular.
Ludlow's has a summer program for kids 2 and a half and older. The program is offered on a daily basis for about an hour each day, and features a particular activity. Kids love the pontoon rides, breakfast cookouts, treasure hunts, nature hikes, and horseback riding. Lessons in racquetball, water-skiing, tennis, and fishing are also popular. Kids can go on a fishing trip and enter a fishing contest during the weekly adult fishing clinics.
Many guests return several times to Ludlow's. Children under 12 stay for free before June 15 and after Labor Day. Call 877-LUDLOWS (877-583-5697) or visit their website Ludlow's Island Resort to find out more about this special place.
