Fall at Ruttger's
When the leaves start to change, Ruttger's transforms into one of the most beautiful spots up north. Against a stunning backdrop of brilliant reds and yellows, experience the fall season to its fullest with excellent fishing, beautiful golf courses, scenic hiking trails, our Oktoberfest celebration, and so much more.
With fewer crowds and tranquil evenings, fall is one of the best times to plan your getaway to Ruttger’s.
Fall Colors
Come mid-September you’ll see the leaves at Ruttger’s turn stunning golds, yellows, oranges, and reds. Take in the fall colors while staying in our Bay Lake Villas, Lakefront Cabins, or Lakeside Cottages and surround yourself with forests of maple, oak, birch, aspen, and majestic Norway pines.
Spend the evenings relaxing with friends and family on the deck of the Bear Pine Bar and enjoy the fall foliage and spectacular sunsets over Bay Lake.
Golf Jack’s 18
Get in one last round before the ground freezes over, the snow falls, and you start wondering why you live in Minnesota again… Oh right, because fall in Minnesota makes up for it all. With near-perfect weather and stunning fall colors, Jack’s 18 is one of the most scenic courses in northern Minnesota.
A Northwoods classic par 72, Jack’s 18 is enjoyable for all skill levels, and we have great deals all week long with Senior Tuesdays & Wednesdays, Ladies Mondays, and Young Adult Days.
Scenic Hiking
Ruttger’s is a great homebase to set out on scenic hiking trails in the area. Head to the Northland Arboretum, strolling through 12 miles of trails, beautiful gardens, wild flowers, and prairies. Take in more spectacular fall foliage on Larson Lake Trail with rolling hills, oak forest, red and white pines, and tamarack and black spruce bogs.
Other guest-favorite trails are the Paul Bunyan State Trail that runs from Brainerd to Bemidji, Cuyuna Lakes State Trail, and trails throughout Crow Wing State Park.
Beautiful Biking Trails
Perfect for all levels of riders, rent an e-bike from All Trails E-Bikes and explore Cuyuna Lakes Mountain Bike Trails, soaking in the scenery with 30 miles of deep-red soil trails, turquoise lakes, and white aspen and birch trees.
Stop for great views of changing colors at Miner’s Mountain Overlook and Huntington Mine Lake and be sure to keep an eye out for bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, beavers, otters, and more.
Fishing on Bay Lake
Bay Lake is an excellent lake for fishing in the Brainerd Lakes area. Filled with sunfish, crappies, bass, northern pike, and walleye, experienced fishers and novices alike will return with a few fish in hand and plenty of fish tales.
Take a guided fishing trip with our expert Lynn Harker who knows all the best spots on Bay Lake and provides everything you need from bait and bobbers to fishing knowledge and fun! Plus, Lynn will treat you to a spectacular up-close encounter with the bald eagles that call Ruttger’s home.
Oktoberfest!
Put on your best lederhosen and dirndls for Ruttger’s most beloved and anticipated event of the year, Oktoberfest! This year Ruttger’s Oktoberfest is October 21 through October 23 where you’ll enjoy traditional German food, beer, and entertainment all weekend.
We also welcome over 100 vendors and booths at our Arts & Crafts Fair on Friday, 12pm-6pm and Saturday 9am-6pm where you’ll find unique items and crafts created by local artisans. Get ready for a fantastic weekend. Prost!
Shopping
Switch out your summer wardrobe and find your next favorite cozy sweater, warm jacket, fall flannels, and your Ruttger’s gear at Ann’s Bay Lake Boutique, Lobby Shop, The Garage, and Ruttger’s newest shop, Bay Lake Boutique.
Find great gifts and toys for the upcoming holiday season. Our locally made Sweet Ann's maple syrup and honey makes for a particularly sweet gift.
