Notes from the host
Mokki Hovland Hut In a rural location
This cozy cabin provides a perfect getaway and is a gem in all seasons, especially during the fall colors or a blowing winter storm.
Timber frame cabin built on a hilltop, on 20 acres of old-growth maples. Walls of glass, a screened-in porch, and a wrap-around deck bring the outdoors inside. You can even stargaze from the comfort of the bed!
The ridge-top location has spectacular views through the trees - with lake views after the leaves drop.
The property also boasts a fantastic wood-fired cedar sauna - perfect for rejuvenating.
The timber frame cabin is located in Hovland MN, which is 30 minutes north of Grand Marais, near the Canadian border and Lake Superior.
The cabin sleeps up to 3 (1 double bed & 1 sleeping cot).
**Please Note**The solar power here is perfect for lighting and charging small essentials like your phone, but it’s not equipped for bigger devices like laptops. It’s all part of the off-grid charm—come ready to unplug and enjoy the simplicity!
Folks will need to bring:
- Linens: Towels, pillow covers, sleeping bags or double bed sheets & a blanket
- Drinking water. There is rain barrel water for washing, but not for drinking. In winter, snow can be melted on the wood stove or gas burner for washing. During bridge season (Nov & Apr) or during periods of extended summer drought, you'll need to bring all your water.
- Headlamps/flashlight to get to the outhouse and sauna, and for late arrivals
The cabin is equipped with:
- wood sauna - 100 yards from the cabin
- outhouse
- wood stove for heating
- woodshed with ax, hatchet & buck saw (be prepared to split your kindling)
- gas & solar lighting
- 2-burner gas cooktop
- outdoor cook grill (bring your own charcoal & watch for fire bans)
- dishes, cutlery, pots, pans, cutting board, kettle, dishwashing basin
Perfect for solo adventurers and couples willing to pack in and pack out drinking water and linens. There isn't running water or a regular cleaner.
We do not charge a cleaning fee. Your ability to ‘Pay it Forward’ and leave the place as you found it is fundamental to maintaining an affordable experience in a healthy space for the next folks seeking a peaceful place to rest and rejuvenate. Please be kind and restock the wood bins and leave some dry kindling inside for the next guests.
Network Service: There is no wifi at the cabin. Some cell networks, notably T-mobile and Verizon have full service, others none. Take screenshots or print information before arrival.
Sauna Liability: Please note that guests use the sauna at their own risk.
*Kids stay free (12 years & under) - please notify us.
We know how important it is to have your canine companion with you when travelling. Our pet fee is $30 (dogs only) with a limit of one dog per stay.
WARNING - ROUGH ROAD CONDITIONS!!! The North Shore has experienced unprecedented snow melt and rainfall these past few springs that degraded the upper road. It is in a long queue for repairs.
Spring/Summer/Fall Access:
If there is no snow on the ground, access by vehicle is possible ONLY with a HIGH CLEARANCE vehicle. The road can be particularly tricky after heavy rainfall.
Alternatively, with a NORMAL CLEARANCE vehicle, you can drop your supplies at the "Y" intersection at the bottom of the last hill and do a 10min walk up the last 200 yards.
Winter Access:
If there is snow on the ground, you will HAVE TO WALK up roughly 20 minutes from where the plowing ends, regardless of the type of vehicle. It is recommended to drop off your supplies where the plowing ends, and then drive back down for overnight parking. Use of a kids' sled is recommended to carry your supplies. If road conditions are icy or unplowed, do not attempt to go up - we are not responsible for your towing.
The winter walk up can be quite a challenge. Dress accordingly, come prepared, and recognize that the wood-fired heat can take a few hours for the cabin to warm up upon your arrival. We highly recommend you arrive in the daylight - it will make your way up to the cabin much nicer, as it is a beautiful walk up.
Parking: There are two designated overnight parking areas located approx. 200 yards after you turn onto Tower Rd. There is an open area on the right-hand side (north side) of the maintained road, and there is a second parking area on the left-hand side just a few yards up.
From here, the walk-up is approximately 1.2 miles or 30-45min, mostly uphill. You will get hot
Trust us... it is truly worth it!
