A fierce battle between the Objibwe and Dakota Indians took place near this site in 1801. This particular skirmish was won by the Dakota, but we are left to speculate as to the exact reason for the battle. This narrow strip of land between the two lakes was once the site of an encampment for maple syrup gathering by the native Indians.
Home to the Corps of Engineers Campground on the southeast side, Cross Lake, at 1184 acres, is one of the larger lakes among the fourteen others that make up the Whitefish Chain. It's popular for recreation and fishing. Many Crosslake restaurants and shops can be reached by boat. Crosslake has been featured in the original oils by Crosslake artist, Tom Ottoson.
Dotted with beautifully preserved islands and covering 924 acres, Rush Lake is one of the medium-sized lakes of the Whitefish Chain. Boaters need to pass through Rush Lake to get to either end of the Chain. Before the Dam was built, Rush was really two lakes with no islands, Rush and Hen (although maybe really Rush and Bass.)
Originally built out of simple timbers, this important bridge was moved and later restructured to comply with new road standards. The Pine River flows under this bridge on its way to the Mississippi. It’s used as a landmark for boaters and road travelers alike. Anglers often fish underneath.
Once a corrugated metal building that had long since outlived its usefulness, the idea was hatched to transform it into a restaurant/bar and marine gas station. Quickly, the Wharf became known as the ‘place to see and be seen’, especially for boaters. Travelers can stop in for lunch or dinner.
From the road it’s easy to see the floating grassy island in the center of the Rush Lake waters just west of Ye Olde Wharf....or is it? The island rises, then sinks continuously throughout the days and months. There is a scientific explaination involving the process of photosynthesis.
Originally a family farm, it’s still easy to pick out the location that was once a crop field, now a green space recreation area. The property changed from farm to resort during the early 1940’s with two cabins. For a few years during the 70’s and 80’s, the cabins were pink and were an easy-to-spot landmark for fishermen and boaters. Today the 12 cabins are an appealing rich brown.
Built on land purchased from the railroad in 1934, Boyd Lodge had 8 cabins by the late 30's. During the 40's and 50's, a mink farm occupied the area that is now the tennis courts. The resort has been owned by the same family since its beginnings in 1934! Travelers are encouraged to stop by, browse in the gift shop and chat with the owners. 1/2 mile off CSAH #16 on Silver Peak Rd.
