Backus, MN

Travel Guide

A sunset over a lake with rocks in the foreground and a forested shoreline.
A statue of a man holding a newspaper in front of a building with the sign "THE NEW".
A modern indoor walkway with glass walls and a red carpet.
A narrow stream with a rocky edge, surrounded by trees and dry grass.
A gas station with a 'Holiday' sign against a colorful sunset sky.
Nisswa Hotel and Suites

Nisswa Hotel and Suites

2 out of 5
24186 North Smiley Rd Nisswa MN
The price is $92 total per night from Sep 16 to Sep 17
$92 total
per night
Sep 16 - Sep 17
Book a stay at this spa hotel in Nisswa. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our ...
Nisswa Hotel and Suites
Grand View Lodge

Grand View Lodge

3.5 out of 5
23521 Nokomis Avenue Nisswa MN
Book a stay at this beach resort in Nisswa. Enjoy 2 indoor pools, a full-service spa, and 7 restaurants. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (988 reviews)
"The property was fairly rundown. Room also had spider webs. Bathroom had hair on the floor upon arrival"

Reviewed on Sep 4, 2026

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Grand View Lodge
Pine Peaks Lodge & Suites

Pine Peaks Lodge & Suites

2.5 out of 5
14047 Swann Dr Crosslake MN
The price is $108 total per night from Oct 1 to Oct 2
$108 total
per night
Oct 1 - Oct 2
Stay at this hotel in Crosslake. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk. Popular attractions Cross Lake Recreation Area and Crosslake Town Square ...
Pine Peaks Lodge & Suites
See all 1,065 properties in Backus
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Nature Link Resort

Nature Link Resort

3 out of 5
24621 S Clark Lake Rd Nisswa MN
Book a stay at this beach cabin in Nisswa. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a private beach. Popular attractions Clark Lake and Nisswa City Park are located ...
Nature Link Resort
PRIVATE BEACH + GULL LAKE CHAIN + SHOP NISSWA + LILY PAD + GAME ROOM

PRIVATE BEACH + GULL LAKE CHAIN + SHOP NISSWA + LILY PAD + GAME ROOM

Nisswa MN
Book a stay at this family-friendly cabin in Nisswa. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Lake Edna and Roy Lake are located ...
10/10 Exceptional! (59 reviews)
"Great time!"

Reviewed on Aug 30, 2026

PRIVATE BEACH + GULL LAKE CHAIN + SHOP NISSWA + LILY PAD + GAME ROOM
Vintage Cabin on Beautiful Lake O'brien - Includes Pontoon Boat

Vintage Cabin on Beautiful Lake O'brien - Includes Pontoon Boat

Crosslake MN
Stay at this cabin in Crosslake. Enjoy free WiFi, a sauna, and a garden. Popular attractions Goodrich Lake and Dolney Lake are located nearby.
Vintage Cabin on Beautiful Lake O'brien - Includes Pontoon Boat
See all properties in Backus
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Backus attractions

Rainy Lake

9.8/10 (6 reviews)
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Rainy Lake during your travels in Backus. While you're in the area, stroll along the riverfront.
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Frequently asked questions

Is Backus worth visiting?
Backus is worth visiting for its natural attractions, including Rainy Lake and Ponto Lake, offering travelers opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. For those who prefer to cook, local grocers are available for self-catering.
When is the best time to visit Backus?
The best time to visit Backus is from June through August, when the weather is typically warm and the destination is most popular. For travelers seeking fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of November through January are a good option.
What is Backus known for?
Backus is known for its scenic natural setting, featuring prominent bodies of water like Rainy Lake, Ponto Lake, and Lizzie Lake. Travelers can explore these tranquil lakes, which define the area's landscape and offer opportunities for outdoor enjoyment.
What is a good itinerary length for Backus?
A good itinerary length for Backus is two to three days to enjoy the natural beauty of Rainy Lake, Ponto Lake, and Lizzie Lake. For an extended stay of four to five days, travelers can also participate in unique activities like the 3Quest Challenge Scavenger hunts of Minnesota or a Crazy Dash Walking Adventure of Minnesota.
What are the top things to do in and around Backus?
In and around Backus, travelers can enjoy the natural beauty of the area's lakes and engage in unique outdoor adventures:

  • Visit Rainy Lake for outdoor recreation
  • Embark on a 3Quest Challenge Scavenger hunt in Minnesota
  • Explore Ponto Lake's serene surroundings
  • Join a Crazy Dash Walking Adventure in Minnesota
  • Relax at Lizzie Lake

How do I plan a trip to Backus?
To plan your trip to Backus, book your flights, rental car, and accommodations early. Explore nature at Rainy Lake, Ponto Lake, and Lizzie Lake, and consider activities like the 3Quest Challenge Scavenger hunts. Remember to have indoor backup plans for outdoor activities, ensuring flexibility for any weather changes.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Backus?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Backus by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Backus with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Backus trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Backus?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Backus can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Backus trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Backus trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Backus trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Backus trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Backus?
If it's your first trip to Backus, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Backus hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Backus hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Cities near Backus

A lake reflecting autumn trees with red, orange, and green foliage.

Pine River

A flagpole with multiple flags, a star emblem, and a clear sky.

Staples

A welcome sign for Wilderness Drive, Changing Forest Trail, Landmark Trail, and Trail Parking.

Nevis

A large statue of a man in a checkered shirt and jeans holding a red axe.

Akeley

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