Hoyt Lakes: Lakes, Trails, and History

Hoyt Lakes offers something for a range of interests: lakes and the beach, walking, sports, and a chapter in the history of the Mesabi Iron Range. The city has direct access to the North Shore of Lake Superior via the Superior National Forest Scenic Byway (FH 11). If you’re looking for a hotel in Hoyt Lakes, consider the season and the activities you have planned when making your choice. It makes a difference—for example, for seasonal beach visits, summer camping, or spring birdwatching.

Lakes, the Beach, and Water Activities

Colby Lake and Whitewater Lake are just minutes from downtown. Activities available there include fishing, canoeing and kayaking, camping, swimming, and picnicking. Birch Cove Beach is on Colby Lake. You can swim and picnic there under the supervision of certified lifeguards. The beach also has a playground, picnic tables, a sand volleyball court, and a boat ramp with a dock. There is also a large parking lot. The beach closes seasonally; before planning a visit, check whether swimming will be available on your travel dates.

Walks and Trails

Hoyt Lakes offers several options for walks: one can start downtown and lead to the golf course; another starts at the arena and ends at Fisherman's Point Campground. The scenic loop around Whitewater Lake is especially beautiful in fall.

Sports in Town and Nearby

Hoyt Lakes Arena offers basketball, pickleball, indoor and outdoor ice rinks, and youth hockey. Since offerings can change, check the latest details before visiting. The city golf course has nine holes and a par of 36. Just outside Hoyt Lakes are the cross-country ski trails at Bird Lake and Colby Lake. Nearby Giant's Ridge Golf & Ski Resort offers downhill and cross-country skiing.

Seasons and Special Dates

The area around Hoyt Lakes, with its boreal forest, wetlands, and aquatic habitats, is of interest for birdwatching. From mid-May to early June, more than 100 species can be seen in a single day. This timeframe is a useful guide if you’re planning your trip around birdwatching. Camping at Fisherman's Point Campground is possible in summer. The Hoyt Lakes Water Carnival takes place every year on the fourth weekend in July. If you want to plan your trip around the festival, confirm the dates for your travel year.

A Piece of Mining History

The Longyear Drill Site in Hoyt Lakes is a historic mineral exploration site. In 1890, a core sample was taken there using the newly invented diamond drill. It helped spur mineral exploration on the Mesabi Iron Range. If you want to visit the historic site, check current access arrangements before setting out; its historical significance alone does not confirm visiting hours.

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