Photo: Cook County News Herald

By Brian Larsen, Cook County News Herald editor. Republished from the January 3, 2025, Cook County News Herald with permission. 

Located eight miles from Grand Marais, the only lodge/restaurant on busy Devil Track Lake is for sale. The current owners, Cory and Rachelle Christianson, have decided to part ways with the business, said Rachelle, noting their decision was “rooted in our commitment to a 10-year succession plan, which we carefully laid out when we took on this incredible venture.

“As we are now in year nine of that plan, we recognize that selling a business is a process that takes time, and we are planning ahead to ensure a smooth transition for our guests, staff, and community. This has always been about honoring the growth, success, and sustainability of Skyport Lodge while preparing for the next chapter.

Cory noted that over the years, “We have continuously reinvested in the lodge to enhance its charm and functionality. Not only from updating the heating system and incorporating energy-efficient appliances in the kitchen to remodeling and reimagining each room and lakeside amenities, every improvement has been a labor of love. Our goal has always been to create a welcoming and memorable experience for our guests while maintaining the lodge’s unique character.”

Situated on .31 acres with 400 feet of shoreline, Skyport Lodge and Raven Rock Grill is a unique summer/winter business that caters to a diverse clientele. From fishermen and snowmobilers to dog mushers and cross-country skiers, and even local families, everyone finds something to enjoy here. The large lawn hosts summer music events, high school graduation parties, and more, making it a versatile and appealing property.

Opened in 1945 by the legendary local pilot, Clarence J. Crotz, Skyport Lodge and Raven Rock Grill has a rich history. Clarence, who flew 73 missions in World War II as a B-26 pilot, built the Devil Track Airport next door, which served as Cook County’s airport until 1996. Cory and Rachelle Christianson bought Skyport in 2016 and have since made significant renovations, preserving its historical charm.

The lodge offers six rooms for rent, providing a variety of accommodation options. These range from cozy studio queens to spacious two-bedroom apartments, catering to different guest preferences. Three of these rooms are dogfriendly, making the lodge a welcoming place for pet owners.

The two-story lodge boasts a bar/restaurant and a full walkout basement that includes a game room, a banquet room, and bathrooms with showers.

During the summers, Cory and Rachelle host a popular concert series called ‘Music by the Lake.’ If you don’t want to swim or fish off of their 100-footlong dock, you can rent a canoe, kayak, or SUP board and go for a paddle, a boat for fishing, or a pontoon for a leisurely trip on the water.

Devil Track Lake is seven miles long and is a good walleye fishery. The Boundary Waters and hundreds of other good lakes are nearby to fish, and there are innumerable trails to hike, bike, or snowmobile.

“We are immensely proud of what we have built and grateful to this community for its support over the years. Our goal is to ensure Skyport Lodge remains a cherished destination for years to come, even as it transitions to new ownership.” For more information about this unique business opportunity, contact Steve Bragg, CBI, Calhoun Companies, Arrowhead Office in Lutsen, at 218-663-7682 or Fax 218-663-7091.