Plan Your Trip
To assist you in planning your trip, we have gathered information, from what to expect in the cabins, to area restaurants, and places to shop. If you have questions about these things, be sure to call us, or use the contact form to send an email.
What’s in the Cabin?
Generally speaking, the cabins are fully equipped for housekeeping--just bring your food, clothes, personal items, and move right in! The kitchens are stocked with all the things needed to prepare meals; bed linens and towels are provided in the cabin, too. Each cabin has a grill, and charcoal and lighter fluid are available in our small store at the lodge. On each cabin page, you will find a quick list of these items, to use for handy reference. If you need something that is not on the list, or not in the cabin, inquire with us--we usually can find it at the lodge. I like to say that you never know what you will find at Planet Heston’s!
Each cabin has a woodstove; firewood and kindling are provided. Wood is also available for outdoor fires in our campfire rings.
WiFi--WiFi is available in each of our cabins. It is password protected, and we are happy to provide that to registered guests. Please inquire at the lodge.
Places to Shop
For groceries:
Grand Marais has two grocery stores, Johnson’s Foods and Gene’s IGA. Both are easy to find on Highway 61 as you drive through town. One block below the stoplight is Cook County Whole Foods Coop. The selection at all three stores is excellent.
Two Harbors has a larger supermarket, Super One. Some people choose to shop there on the way up to the Gunflint Trail. Be sure to bring a cooler for the cold food.
On the Trail: Heston’s maintains a small store with an eclectic selection of groceries. Gunflint Pines, two miles away, stocks a larger variety.
For gasoline:
It is best to gas up in Grand Marais before venturing up the Trail. If you are unable to do so, gas is available at Trail Center, approximately 17 miles before you reach Heston’s. Additionally, many resorts have premium gasoline on site, as this is what we use in our outboard motors. Ask at the desk and we can help you find what you are looking for.
For gifts and souvenirs:
Nearly all of the lodges and outfitters on the Trail have gift shops, and it is fun to take an afternoon to visit them. You can see many areas of the trail, and in your travels, you may spot a moose or a bear!
Grand Marais has several shops and galleries, with a wonderful selection of gifts, clothing and outdoor equipment. Visit the Grand Marais website to read more.
Places to Eat
On the Trail
Here is a list of some of our favorite restaurants to eat, including the approximate mileage to each.
Gunflint Lodge--Enjoy the Red Paddle Bistro for casual fare, and Justine’s for fine dining. Please call 218-388-2294 for more information. (2.5 miles)
Gunflint Pines--Currently offering pizzas, popcorn and ice cream between the hours of 3:00 and 7:00 p.m. (2 miles)
Loon Lake Lodge--Open for breakfast Friday-Tuesday, and dinner on Tuesday and Friday nights. Advance reservations a must. Take-and-bake pizza, and ice cream sandwiches available as well. (10 miles)
Trail Center-- Always a happening place. Variety of menu items, from burgers and sandwiches to fish and steak. 218-388-2214. (17 miles)
In Grand Marais:
Three spots that we really enjoy.
The Gunflint Tavern--Family favorite! Innovative menu of ethnic, vegetarian and traditional items. Best beer selection in town.
Angry Trout--Dining on the waterfront, with a menu featuring Lake Superior fish.
The Fisherman’s Daughter—Another gem on the waterfront. Excellent fish and chips, and wraps ready to go for that impromptu picnic.
Laundromats
Grand Marais has two coin operated laundromats.
What is harder to find:
Cell Phone service--Limited cell phone service has arrived on the Gunflint Trail. The provider is AT&T. The signal can be very spotty, particularly for other servers. We have a land line at the front desk that you may use.
Television--Our cabins do not have television. We have a selection of puzzles, games and books that you may borrow from the lodge.
We want to make your stay with us pleasant and relaxing. If you have special needs not covered here, please give us a call. We are happy to accommodate requests as much as we are able.