Location
Crosslake & the Whitefish Chain
A year-round lakeside community in Minnesota's Brainerd Lakes area, home to one of the state's premier chains of interconnected lakes.
The Whitefish Chain
Minnesota's Premier Lake System
The Whitefish Chain of Lakes is a network of 14 interconnected lakes covering 14,272 acres with 115 miles of combined shoreline. It is one of the largest and most sought-after lake chains in Minnesota, offering exceptional fishing, boating, and water sports from early spring through late fall.
The chain includes Cross Lake, Upper Whitefish Lake, Lower Whitefish Lake, and 11 additional connected bodies of water. The interconnected nature means you can explore miles of shoreline by boat without ever trailering.
Popular game fish include walleye, northern pike, bass, and panfish. The clear water and varied structure make it a year-round destination for anglers and recreational boaters alike.
14
Interconnected Lakes
14,272
Total Acres
115
Miles of Shoreline
2,400
Crosslake Residents
Community
Living in Crosslake
Crosslake is a small, close-knit community of approximately 2,400 residents in Crow Wing County, part of the Brainerd micropolitan area. The city spans about 37 square miles, with over one-third of its area covered by water. It is known as the birthplace of the Paul Bunyan Trail and serves as a gateway to the Whitefish Chain.
Schools
Crosslake Community Charter School serves approximately 443 students in grades K through 12, offering a personalized learning environment in a small-school setting.
Commute
The average commute time is approximately 29 minutes. Baxter and Brainerd, roughly 20 miles south, provide additional shopping, medical facilities, and services.
Year-Round Living
Crosslake is not just a summer destination. Ice fishing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing make it a true four-season community with an active year-round population.
Dining
Local Restaurants on the Whitefish Chain
Crosslake offers a surprisingly rich dining scene for a town of its size, with everything from casual pizza to Italian cuisine, all within a short drive of the property. Many of these restaurants are right on the water or minutes from the chain.
Shops & Cafes
Local Businesses
From morning coffee to boutique shopping, Crosslake's downtown corridor along County Road 3 and County Road 66 features a walkable collection of local businesses.
Coffee
Crosslake Coffee
35522 Co Rd 66, Crosslake
Outdoors
Recreation & Nature
The Brainerd Lakes area is one of Minnesota's premier outdoor recreation destinations. From the Whitefish Chain to the Paul Bunyan Trail, there is no shortage of ways to enjoy the natural landscape.
Cross Lake Recreation Area
Campground and day-use area on Cross Lake with trails and water access.
Learn MoreUppgaard Wildlife Management Area
Wildlife refuge with bird watching and nature observation.
Learn MorePaul Bunyan Trail
Over 115 miles of paved trail for biking, hiking, and snowmobiling through the Brainerd Lakes area.
Whitefish Chain of Lakes
14 interconnected lakes spanning 14,272 acres with 115 miles of shoreline for boating, fishing, and water sports.
Learn MoreExperience Crosslake in Person
Schedule a visit to 12388 Brookwood Circle and explore the Whitefish Chain firsthand.