Poplar Lake - West Cook

Located in Cook County, Minnesota

Poplar Lake is a large and secluded lake in West Cook (Cook County), Minnesota. Duluth is 141 miles south, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada, is 105 miles northeast, and Minneapolis is 295 miles southwest.

Residents on the lake enjoy quick access to healthcare with the Cook County North Shore Hospital just 30 miles away. For local travel, the Grand Marais Airport is 32 miles away, but for international travel, residents use the Duluth International Airport, 144 miles south.

Spacious Waters

Poplar Lake spans 764 acres, reaching depths up to 73 feet with a 23.2-mile shoreline. The lake is within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA) in Superior National Forest, so residents enjoy the relaxation and seclusion of the lake.

Fishing is one of the more popular activities on the lake with the wide variety of species that call Poplar home. Anglers will find largemouth bass, black crappie, bluegill, trout, northern pike, smallmouth bass, walleye, yellow perch, black nose shiner, and more!

Almost 2,000 lakes are in the BWCA, primarily used for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Other activities that are popular here are hunting, camping, and star-gazing.

What’s Nearby?

Poplar Lake is equipped with a top-quality restaurant right on the shore! The Poplar Haus Restaurant & Bar specializes in great food, a friendly atmosphere, and excellent customer service. Taking a short drive south to the coast of Lake Superior, you can find a plethora of dining options.

The Cascade State Park is just a short drive away from Poplar Lake and is a must-see! Here you can explore a network of trails, get up close and personal with the local wildlife, or witness some breathtaking views of Lake Superior.

Minnesota is one of the top states in the U.S. for golf, so it is no surprise there are two golf courses within close proximity to Poplar Lake. The Gunflint Hills Golf Course or the Superior National Golf Course are both great options to get out with the golfer of the family.

The Grand Marais Lighthouse is an intermediate walking trail with the reward of stunning views at the end. If you are looking to get out and explore a historical area, this attraction is perfect for you.

Why Poplar Lake?

Enjoy the relaxing and secluded experience that comes with living in a national park!