If you're dreaming of a cozy getaway before winter hits - consider this your sign.

From late August through October, Cuyuna becomes a hidden gem that most folks miss. The trails are quieter. The lakes are glassy. The colors? Unreal. Whether you’re looking to soak up the final golden days of summer or cozy up for the first frost of fall, Cuyuna Cove is the perfect home base.

Here’s why this season might just be our favorite time of year:

Soak up the last of August warmth from the dirt roads and bike trails around Huntington Mine Lake. This view is from Mahnomen Trail head. Or grab your paddleboard & paddle the crystal clear water!

1. The Fall Colors Hit Different in Cuyuna

Best time for leaf peeping in Crosby, MN for Cuyuna fall colors? By mid to late September, the forests surrounding our cabins and bungalows slowly begin to transform into a mix of gold, amber, and deep red. October brings peak fall foliage in Minnesota, especially across the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area. Morning walks feel crisp and refreshing, and golden hour becomes the perfect time of day to walk or bike up to Overlook Point and watch the sun set behind the rolling hills and stunning mine lakes. You can get there directly from Cuyuna Cove by hopping on the paved trail that connects to our property. No car required—just you, your bike or walking shoes, and a scenic journey into color-drenched woods.

Mid - Late October the leaves are stunning while biking, walking or paddling Huntington Mine Lake in Cuyuna, MN

2. Fewer Crowds, But The Weather Shines

Late August into October brings the best of both worlds - warm days, cool nights, and fewer people. It’s ideal for mountain biking, paddle boarding on Pennington Mine Lake, or just enjoying a cup of coffee on your cabin or bungalow’s patio in peace. Our seasonal Bungalows stay open until mid-October, complete with heated toilet seats and spa-inspired shower house. For year-round cozy, our elevated cabins offer forest views from bed and a peaceful base for adventure.

Bird’s eye view of Cuyuna Cove in the beauty of Fall. Our bungalows are just out of this photo, across the pond from the cabins shown. It truly is such a special place to unwind, adventure and reconnect.

3. Local Fall Flavors & Events

Crosby and Ironton in autumn are packed with charm. Think: cider tastings, local produce, and fall events. The local farmer’s market in Crosby (Cuyuna Farmer’s Market) is held on Saturdays, May 29–October, from 9a-1p. Check out their facebook page for updates.
Dive deeper into the history of Cuyuna and Crosby - explore the Milford Mine Memorial — a peaceful, powerful boardwalk trail honoring Minnesota’s worst mining disaster. As the leaves fall, it becomes one of the most reflective and beautiful spots in the area.

Cuyuna Farmers Market takes place here (on Main Street Crosby) on Saturdays in the Summer - October. We love it!

4. Milford Mine Memorial Park - Stunning Trails & History

Another meaningful stop just minutes from Cuyuna Cove is the Milford Mine Memorial Park. This quiet, powerful site honors the 41 miners who tragically lost their lives in Minnesota’s worst mining disaster on February 5, 1924, when the underground mine suddenly flooded. Today, a serene boardwalk winds through the wetlands and over the still, reflective waters of the old mine pit. Along the way, you’ll find each of the miners' names etched into the wooden planks beneath your feet — a quiet tribute that invites visitors to pause and reflect. Surrounded by the changing leaves and peaceful silence, the experience is both grounding and deeply moving — a blend of nature, history, and remembrance that stays with you long after you leave.

5. Cozy Season Is Calling

Cool mornings. Flannel shirts. Sleeping in and snuggled in bed sipping slow French press coffee with forest views. Whether you’re on a solo reset, a romantic getaway with your favorite human or a relaxing adventure with your dog, our spaces are designed to help you slow down and reconnect.
Walk our private trail to the redwood sauna, leave your phone behind, and breathe in the crisp fall air. Studies show time in nature combined with heat therapy can ease stress, improve sleep, and boost your mood. Cozy season isn’t just about blankets and bonfires -it’s about letting nature do what it does best: heal.

Our custom built redwood sauna is included with your getaway at Cuyuna Cove. Leave your phone behind and breathe deeply to soak up the mental & physical health benefits from sauna.

6. Our Favorite Hike You’ve (maybe) Never Heard Of

Larson Lake Trail, just 10 minutes from Cuyuna Cove, offers rolling hills through wetlands, towering pines, and open skies. Originally groomed for cross-country skiing, this 7km loop is a fall hiking favorite — especially after the first frost. Bright leaves blanket the ground, the bugs are gone, and it’s perfectly quiet. Bring your pup, a thermos of tea, and enjoy the crisp air. Come back with skis in winter for a completely different experience.

Larson Lake Hike in late October as the leaves start to fall is our favorite time to hike this beautiful nature trail.

7. Bucket List Idea: Paddleboard the First Snowfall

If you’re the adventurous type, hear us out: early October sometimes brings the first light dusting of snow. When this lines up with peak fall colors and a glassy lake — it’s like paddling through a painting.
Bring a wetsuit or book a cabin and warm up in the sauna after. Trust us — it’s unforgettable! Our favorite mine lake to drop in at for this adventure is Pennington Mine Lake. You can drive to the Rally Center parking (you can google this location) and park to the right to start exploring Pennington. It’s so beautiful paddling the shoreline and gliding under the wood bridge with the crisp, cool air (and snow if you’re lucky!)

Thanks to our friend, Sean Pease for sending us this photo late Oct from the silent mine lakes. The first snow from the water is incredibly magical.

7. Our Favorite Things to Do, Late Summer to Fall:

Bike the trails when the leaves start to fall — less dust, less people more beauty & easier to spot wildlife as leaves start to fall.
Pack a picnic (grab your charcuterie goodies from Victual first) and head up to Overlook point with endless, stunning views.
Paddle out on Huntington or walk to Yawkey mine lake when the sun is low and the lake is glass.
Grab breakfast at Mixed Company, North Country Cafe or lunch at Iron Range Eatery.
Stargaze on a clear night from your hammock (at our Bungalows), patio (on our cabins) or fire pit.

Need to getaway from it all and just be silent in the woods? Late Summer & Fall on the bike trails right from Cuyuna Cove is truly one of the best ways to breath deep and reset. Sauna afterwards comes highly recommended!

Come Unwind With Us

Whether you're escaping the city or planning a surprise weekend for someone you love, there’s no better time to reconnect with nature - and yourself.

August through October is our sweet spot. Come see why.

🧡
Kelsey, Chris & The Cuyuna Cove Team

The Best Time to Visit Cuyuna? Late Summer Through Fall Might Just Be It.