One of the more popular lakes in recent years has been Big Sandy, just north of McGregor and within a couple hours drive of Minneapolis and St. Paul. It is a pretty lake with many hills, islands and bays, so you won't get bored while taking a cruise or looking for interesting fishing spots...or just gazing at the attractive waterfront real estate.

Also in the McGregor Lake Area are other popular lakes like Minewawa, Round Lake and Wilkins Lake, hosting many nice beaches and an extensive array of lakefront homes and cabins looking over their clear waters. McGregor is kind of off the beaten path, but with Duluth and Cloquet just to the east -- and Grand Rapids just to the north -- you aren't far from civilization in your lakeshore retreat.

However, if easy access is your thing, Sturgeon Lake, Moose Lake and Sandstone give a proximity that can be commutable to either Duluth or the Twin Cities on Interstate 35. In fact from Pine City to Barnum there are a variety of popular lakes like Grindstone, Pine Lake, Hanging Horn and the Cross Lake / Pokegama Chain that are just off the highway and within just minutes of the Grand Casino in Hinckley.

In the past it was difficult to find out about waterfront properties in these two areas without going there, but recently many of the local real estate companies have joined the Greater Twin Cities Board, so you will find most area listings by clicking on the button for the Greater Twin Cities MLS.