Top 10% of guest reviews in this areaTop 10% of guest reviews in this area
Highlights
The great outdoors
Guests love the outdoor space here.
Arcade/game room
A rare find - fun for all ages with on-site arcade and game room.
6 bedrooms4 bathroomsSleeps 17
Popular amenities
Ski lift privileges
Onsite parking available
Dog-friendly
Kitchen
Washer
Air conditioning
Explore the area
Duluth, MN
Lester River
Place, Lester River
1 min walk
Aerial Lift Bridge
Place, Aerial Lift Bridge
17 min drive
Miller Hill Mall
Place, Miller Hill Mall
22 min drive
Duluth, MN (DLH-Duluth Intl.)
Airport, Duluth, MN (DLH-Duluth Intl.)
20 min drive
Rooms & beds
6 bedrooms (sleeps 17)
4 bathrooms
Bathroom 2
Bathroom 3
Bathroom 4
Master Bathroom
Spaces
Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Separate dining area
Garden
Dining area
About this property
Lester River Pines Home | Pond | Creek | Woods | Views | Dogs
15 min from Canal Park Duluth lies a 5-bedroom home on 20 acres in the pines overlooking the Lester River and pond. Easy access to Hwy 61 for a site-seeing drive up the North Shore or Grandma's Marathon. Close to Lake Park Baseball & Soccer Complex and many other great activities. Enjoy coffee each morning from the deck or relax next to our indoor fireplaces or outdoor firepit. Great home to share during those youth hockey weekends! Large gatherings by request only. The space Lester River Pines is an easy drive along the Lester River Road to tour the Northshore or a quick 20-30 minutes from Canal Park and Downtown Duluth. It's the perfect home for family gatherings or retreats. Guest access SELF CHECK-IN: Our self-check-in system is designed to provide guests with a convenient way to check in without assistance.
We ask guests to complete their check-in between 4 PM and 8 PM. This is to ensure we can help you effectively and prevent any inconvenience or difficulty in reaching us later in the day if you have any issues.
A door code and check-in directions will be included in your welcome letter 3 days before your arrival.
Purchase Spirit Mountain Ski Resort FULL-day ski lift pass vouchers at a special rate of $65, a fantastic saving from the regular price of $95 at the ticket counter.
GETTING SKI VOUCHERS:
• Request the total amount of vouchers at least 3 days before your arrival date. • Pay additional fees. • We will deliver your vouchers to your home. • Take the voucher to the ticket counter to redeem your lift tickets and sign a waiver.
RULES:
• Vouchers can only be used during the dates of your reservation. • Only an ADULT full-day lift ticket is available. • No refunds for unused vouchers.
We have a limited number of discounted vouchers. Book before they are all gone!
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
Add dates for prices
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Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadbolt lock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
About the neighborhood
Duluth
Located in Duluth, this vacation home is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Lake Superior and Lester River reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Marshall Performing Arts Center and Marshall W. Alworth Planetarium. Traveling with kids? Consider S.S. William A. Irvin Ore Boat Museum, or check out an event or a game at Duluth Entertainment Convention Center. Take in the nearby slopes with cross-country skiing and snowboarding, or check out other outdoor activities such as ice skating and sledding.
North Shore Scenic Railroad - 17 min drive - 19.4 km
Aerial Lift Bridge - 17 min drive - 19.0 km
Miller Hill Mall - 22 min drive - 23.1 km
Spirit Mountain - 28 min drive - 34.9 km
Getting around
Duluth, MN (DLH-Duluth Intl.) - 22 min drive
Restaurants
Starbucks - 13 min drive
Lake Superior Brewing - 9 min drive
Billy's - 5 min drive
Mount Royal Fine Foods - 14 min drive
Tavern on the Hill - 14 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Lester River Pines Home | Pond | Creek | Woods | Views | Dogs pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 4 total).
How much does it cost to stay at Lester River Pines Home | Pond | Creek | Woods | Views | Dogs?
As of Jun 25, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Lester River Pines Home | Pond | Creek | Woods | Views | Dogs on Oct 6, 2026 start from $1,210, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking?
Onsite parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Lester River Pines Home | Pond | Creek | Woods | Views | Dogs?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Lester River Pines Home | Pond | Creek | Woods | Views | Dogs?
Check-out is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Lester River Pines Home | Pond | Creek | Woods | Views | Dogs located?
This family-friendly Duluth vacation home is located on the waterfront, within a 15-minute walk of Lester River and Lakewood Town Hall. Lake Superior and Hawk Ridge are also within 6 mi (10 km).
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
We loved this home! Especially the kitchen, deck and outside areas. We walked the paths and enjoyed the flowers & views of the creek. Easy drive to all the sites around Duluth. We had a group of 8, several used the sauna. The house is set up beautifully, no need to bring a lot of extras- they had it all including fans and heaters. 8 of us fit around the dining table easily, and the kitchen island was perfect. Highly recommend this place!
We stay at a lot of VRBOs around the country, and no kidding, this is maybe the best house and property we've ever seen. The home is beautiful and very comfortable. Stocked with everything we needed. And the surrounding ponds and woods are stunning. 20 minutes from downtown Duluth, and yet feels like we're at a luxury cabin / resort in the woods.
We very much enjoyed our stay. The young adults enjoyed exploring the property and the sauna. We were secluded,but also very close to activities in Duluth. We had a slight issue with the air conditioner, but the owner was quick to take care of it. Per my daughter-in-law, I picked the perfect place! Please note that you may find fairy houses along the trail. Built by my five year old granddaughter and visited by many fairies who left notes and a gift. A truly magical place!
A very friendly and welcoming host. The home was cozy with a relaxing atmosphere.
David K.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 21, 2026
Hello Audrey,
We hope that your stay with us was enjoyable. Would it be greatly appreciated if you would provide us with a 10 Star review? The review assists our future clients with information that allows them to make a booking decision and also supports the our Premier Host status.Subject: We'd Love Your Feedback!
Hello Audrey,
We hope you had a wonderful stay with us! We would greatly appreciate it if you could take a moment to provide us with a 10-star review. Your feedback helps future guests make informed booking decisions and also supports our Premier Host status.
Thank you for your time!
Best regards,
North Shore Vacation Rentals
Talk about a loaded kitchen. Every appliance you could want, perfectly labeled drawers, and an amazing stove/oven. We had some wonderful family time at this home. Plenty of space for a family of 8, even had an extra room. Pretty clean for a pet-friendly place. Under the couch is a little scary (we lost a toy, that’s why we looked lol) but otherwise clean. water pressure left something to be desired. Location is perfect. Out of town and private but only 20 mins from all Duluth things. The views are incredible, even in the winter! I would definitely stay here again.
We are happy you enjoyed the location and all of the nearby amenities NSVRMN has to offer! We'd love to have you back to any of our North Shore Vacation Rentals in Duluth! Thank you for a wonderful review!
The host communicated well! The hiuse was very clean and the Christmas tree was perfect for our family's holiday get together! The location was beautiful and we enjoyed the sauna! We would definitely come back!
Christie C.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Dec 28, 2025
We are delighted to hear that you and your family enjoyed a wonderful holiday vacation at our Lester River Pines property!
The snow and the location truly make this home a winter wonderland. Activities like having a private ice-skating rink on the pond, relaxing in a unique sauna, and cozying up around the living room fireplace while watching a movie are just a few reasons this property is so popular.
We hope to see you back again soon!
Everyone enjoyed skating on the pond. There was plenty of room for us - eight adults, six kids, and three dogs! The kitchen had everything you could possibly need for cooking, although it was a little short on silverware.
Doris D.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2026
Response from VrboOwner on Jan 24, 2026
We are delighted to hear that you enjoyed a 5-star stay at our Lester River Pines home!
The private skating rink on the pond is just one of the many unique amenities this house offers. The spacious kitchen is fully equipped, allowing our guests to prepare and enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal together, all while feeling like a top chef!
We at North Shore Vacation Rentals hope to welcome you back again soon!
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Dale
Jan 31, 2026
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Great location and setting. Wonderful dinning room with large square table we used often. Pet friendly! Our grandchildren said it was the ebst house we have had and we do Christmas like this every 2 years so high praise. Sorry to say we did break one glass. Sorry for the late recview.
We rented Lester River Pines for an intimate family wedding. The house exceeded our expectations and met every need. Thank you for helping provide a lovely memory for our daughter.
Josh and Kerri Lynn B.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Dec 12, 2025
We are so grateful to be able to share the beauty of our Lester River Pines property with our guests and create life-long memories like this, Josh and Kerri! We are thrilled to hear that you had everything you needed, and we hope that you and your family had a wonderful, relaxing weekend. Congratulations to your daughter, we hope you come back to celebrate her anniversary!
It was so nice having our senior dog here with us! It was very clean as well.
Lauren J.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 30, 2025
At North Shore Vacation Rentals, we wholeheartedly believe that pets are part of the family. That’s why it brings us immense joy to welcome both you and your furry companions to our properties. We understand that each moment shared with your beloved pet is a cherished memory in the making. Our aim is to create a warm and inviting atmosphere where families and friends can unwind and feel at home, all while keeping your space clean and comfortable.
We can’t wait to welcome you both back to any of our North Shore Vacation Rental properties in Duluth, MN.
Beautiful home that can accommodate a large group. The pond was shoveled , and lite up with lights. The grandkids ice skated & sledded. The outdoor sauna was a hit with the adults, as was the pool table. The house provided ice skates , snow shoes and many family games. Highly recommend & plan to visit again.
We're so excited to hear that we exceeded your expectations! At North Shore Vacation Rentals, we believe in keeping our communication friendly and clear. We're dedicated to providing you with clean and cozy properties to make sure you have an amazing stay with us. We can't wait to welcome you back!
We loved the house. Is absolutely beautiful! We would and will definitely stay again!
Mina S.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Aug 1, 2025
We are so happy that your group enjoyed their stay, Mina! You were all wonderful guests—very kind and with excellent communication. It sounds like your group was able to relax in the backyard, overlooking the pond and listening to the flowing Lester River, while also finding time to explore the local shops! We love that this location is so secluded yet just a quick ride to town. North Shore Vacation Rentals looks forward to your next stay at Lester River Pines!
Beautiful property in a great location. Easy launch point to Duluth and Two Harbors. Great size - housed 8 adults and 6 children comfortably with lots of room for the kids to run around outside and downstairs.
Kelsi D.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 3, 2025
You made a wonderful point! Not only is this place just a few minutes north of Duluth, but it’s also a fantastic base camp for exploring the beautiful North Shore. We’re so happy to hear that this cozy and convenient spot was just right for your group!
Thank you, Jaclyn! This location is truly exceptional for a friendcation and has received numerous requests for weddings, reunions, and various life celebrations. Its appeal lies in its proximity to amenities while still offering a sense of seclusion and stunning views that can be enjoyed throughout the year. It's why you come back!
Lovely home. Very comfortable with many amenities. Loved the sauna. Beds are super comfortable. Great for a gathering of 12 people. Also Host was very responsive to fix an issue within hours. We will be back.
Katherine O.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Dec 5, 2025
Thank you for your kind words, Katherine! Our Lester River Pines property is highly sought after, for good reason! With a fully stocked kitchen, 3 full bathrooms (including 2 jacuzzi tubs), 9 beds, a pool table, a handmade wood fire sauna, a children's play set, and a beautiful pond in the backyard, this house is nothing short of a steal! We hope you come back!
Thank you for your feedback. I’m pleased to confirm that the oven knob has arrived and has been replaced. We understand that having the knob partially attached may have caused some inconvenience during your stay, but we’re glad it remained functional for your cooking and baking needs. We will always strive to meet our guests' needs.
Hey Wade!
We’re absolutely thrilled to hear that you and your awesome crew had a fantastic time at North Shore Vacation Rentals at Lester River Pines! Just picture it: cozy fires, stunning pond views, and all the cool adventures waiting by the Lester River—sounds like the perfect recipe for fun! And let’s not forget the sauna—who doesn’t love turning into a human steam dumpling every now and then?
If you’re ever craving another epic getaway, NSVRMN is here with a treasure chest of incredible properties in Duluth, MN, just waiting for your return! We can't wait to hear from you again and help you plan your next adventure!
Annmarie - Thank you for your kind words. Maintaining a high standard of cleanliness and providing a comfortable environment for our guests are top priorities for us, so your feedback is truly encouraging. If your travels bring you back this way, we’d love to host you again! -Heirloom Vacations