25+ Fun Things To Do Near Hand Lake, MN

ByHand Hay Lake Association Updated on

Hand Lake sits quietly in the heart of Pine River, Minnesota, but there’s nothing quiet about the amount of fun you can have here.

Whether you’re spending the weekend at a cabin, visiting for the summer, or just passing through, there are plenty of local traditions, outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, and sweet stops to keep you busy.

Here’s a guide to the best things to do near Hand Lake, collected from locals (thanks to everyone who submitted their recommendations!) and seasoned with a few extras worth adding to your list.

Local Traditions and Festivals

Turtle Races in Longville

Every summer, the town of Longville turns into the turtle capital of the world. Families crowd downtown, cheering on their chosen turtle as it scuttles across the pavement. The races are part competition and part comedy, and they’ve been going on for decades. Grab an ice cream cone while you’re there and soak up a true Minnesota summer tradition.

Picklefest in Pine River

Hand Lake’s hometown of Pine River comes alive every August with Picklefest. Think pickle ice cream, pickle-on-a-stick, “Pickle for a Nickel” games, food trucks, a live auction, and a parade. It’s silly, tasty, and wonderfully small-town. In 2025, it’s set for August 16, but it’s always on a Saturday in August.

Music in the Park – Hackensack

On warm summer evenings, Hackensack hosts live music in the park. Families spread out on blankets, kids run around, and the sound of guitars and fiddles drifts across the lake. It’s a low-key way to enjoy a night out without leaving the Northwoods.

Duck Races in Pine River

Another local favorite is the rubber duck races on the Pine River. Hundreds of yellow ducks float down the water, each with a number, while the crowd cheers them to the finish. It’s fun for kids and adults alike.

Outdoor Adventures

Sunset on the Deck/Dock

Sometimes the best thing to do at Hand Lake is nothing at all.

Pour a bourbon, light a cigar, set up a game of rumicube, and watch the sun slip behind the trees with friends and family.

Hiking and Nature Walks

Hand Lake is surrounded by excellent hiking spots, from easy strolls to longer treks. A few of the best are:

  • Paul Bunyan Trail – A paved path that runs right through Pine River. Perfect for walking or biking, whether you want a quick nature walk or a long workout.
  • Deep Portage Learning Center (Hackensack) – More than 10 miles of trails through wetlands, forests, and lakes. Great for wildlife watching.
  • Crow Wing State Park – Located at the meeting of the Crow Wing and Mississippi Rivers. Trails lead to river overlooks, historic sites, and quiet wooded areas.
  • Chippewa National Forest – Covering about 1.6 million acres, including 666,000 acres of managed forest, it offers everything from short loops to backcountry hikes.
  • North Country National Scenic Trail – Passing through parts of the Chippewa, this long-distance trail is perfect for a section hike if you want big Northwoods scenery.

Mabel Lake State Park

A hidden gem about 30 minutes from Hand Lake. Swim at the sandy beach, picnic in the grassy areas, launch a boat, or camp right on the shore.

Fishing on Hand Lake

Of course, you don’t have to leave Hand Lake for a great day outdoors. Anglers love it for walleye, bass, northern pike, and panfish.

Snowmobiling in Winter

When the snow piles up, Pine River turns into a snowmobile playground. Groomed trails connect for hundreds of miles, making it a great base for winter riding.

Sweet Treats and Family Fun

Ice Cream Stops

Nothing says summer at Hand Lake like piling the kids in the car, still damp from swimming, and heading out for ice cream. These shops aren’t just about the cones — they’re part of the whole lake experience. Each has its own personality, from old-fashioned candy counters to laid-back roadside stands, and locals will tell you a trip isn’t complete without at least one stop.

  • The Long Pine (Pine River) – A quick and easy stop right up the road!
  • Big Dipper (Hackensack) – A no-frills, family-friendly shop that scoops up classic cones. Simple, sweet, and always busy on a summer evening.
  • The Chocolate Ox (Nisswa) – Part candy shop, part ice cream parlor, and totally worth the detour. We especially love the Zanzibar chocolate flavor – give it a shot!
  • The Outpost (Pequot Lakes) – A cozy stop that serves hearty portions with a friendly, small-town vibe.

Mini Golf Adventures

There’s something about mini golf that brings out everyone’s competitive side.

At The Woodpile Up North Eatery and Mini Golf in Longville, you can pair a round of putt-putt with a casual meal, making it an easy family outing.

If you want a course with more atmosphere, Nisswa Falls Mini Golf has flowing waterfalls, winding paths, and beautifully landscaped holes that make the game as much about the scenery as the score.

Pine River Dam

Right in town, the Pine River Dam is a favorite stop for both locals and visitors. Families bring picnics, kids chase each other across the grassy park, and the river makes a calming soundtrack in the background.

Depot and Museum

To balance out the outdoor fun, head to Pine River’s restored train depot. The museum inside is small, but worth an hour if you enjoy learning about the history of our town.

Food and Drinks

After a day on the water or exploring trails, it’s nice to have a few go-to spots for food and drinks. While we don’t have too many options nearby, here are a few favorites:

Craft Breweries

If you enjoy local beer, you’ll have plenty of choices within a short drive. Each brewery has its own style, but all of them share the same laid-back, Northwoods atmosphere that makes you want to hangout.

  • Snarky Loon Brewing Company (Jenkins) – A great place to grab a beer and hangout in their courtyard.
  • 14 Lakes Craft Brewing Company (Crosslake) – A small-town brewery with a rotating list of beers on tap.
  • Rendezvous Brewing (Hackensack) – A casual spot to grab a beer after a day at the lake.

Pine River Bakery

Start your morning at this local staple. The bakery is known for its donuts, pastries, and hot coffee; the kind of place where you’ll see a steady stream of both visitors and locals fueling up before heading out on the lake.

Quick Tip: Try their apple fritters.. you won’t be disappointed!

Shiners (Jenkins)

If you’re looking for a sit-down meal near Hand Lake, Shiner’s in Jenkins is a solid choice. The restaurant has a welcoming, small-town atmosphere that makes it easy to relax.

The menu focuses on sandwiches and soups: simple, hearty, and satisfying after a day outdoors.

Other Fun Activities!

Casino in Walker

If you’re looking for a night out beyond Pine River, head to the casino in Walker. It’s an easy drive from Hand Lake and offers more than just gaming. Try your luck at the tables or slot machines, grab a meal, or check the calendar for live music and entertainment. It makes for a fun change of pace after days spent on the water or trails.

Antique Shops and Markets

For a slower outing, spend some time browsing the antique shops and markets in Pine River and the nearby towns. You’ll find everything from rustic furniture to vintage knickknacks and local crafts. In the summer, seasonal farmers markets are another draw, with fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade items that give you a taste of local life.

Life at Hand Lake has its own rhythm. Some days are best spent right on the dock with a fishing pole, and other days call for a trip into town for donuts, a round of mini golf, or even the excitedment of Picklefest.

What makes this area special isn’t just the activities, but the community that shows up for them. From racing turtles to cheering on rubber ducks, it’s these simple traditions and shared moments that make Hand Lake and Pine River feel like home.

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