WA-GA-THA-KA Resort on Lake Wabana

09/30/2026

As the Summer 2026 season winds down, you may not see quite as many posts from us. We’ll be busy getting everything ready for winter - winterizing the cabins, the lodge, and, of course, Chippy! 🍂🐿️

But before we officially settle into the off-season, we wanted to share some of the absolutely beautiful colors we’ve been seeing around the lake so far. 🍁🍂

As much as we love seeing all of your friendly faces throughout the summer, we have to admit… we sure do love our fall colors, too! ❤️

And finally, a BIG THANK YOU to everyone who helped us celebrate and participate in Wa-Ga-Tha-Ka’s 100th Anniversary! We truly appreciate each and every one of you and are so grateful for the love and support you continue to show our small, family-owned resort.

Here’s to 100 years - and many more to come! 🥂🌲

09/09/2026

And just like that, Chippy is getting ready for his winter hibernation. 👀🍂

Throughout the summer months, he’s got his very own grand chair at the lodge (with lots of unsalted peanuts) - and we’re happy to carry on Barbara’s tradition and keep his special spot waiting for him. ❤️🐿️

08/29/2026

We spy with our little eye… 👀🍁

Cooler weather is creeping in, and it looks like fall is just around the corner! 🍂

08/19/2026

Cheers to the winners of the dinner here at Wa-Ga-Tha-Ka, auctioned off each year at Fun Night in support of the Grand Rapids Lions Club! 🥂

It’s pretty special to see the dining room still being enjoyed, just like it was back in the day - whether it’s for a special occasion or simply a good meal with good company.

Here’s to keeping the history, memories, and traditions alive! ❤️

07/30/2026

A few blasts from the past! 📸

Take a look at these vintage postcards - just 5¢ each or 6 for 25¢! 💵👛

Many of these historic photos are displayed in an old window frame, offering a glimpse into life in the early to mid-1900s. They even predate the paved County Road 49 that so many of us know and love today - by quite a bit! 🎣 🌲📜

It’s a fun look back at how much our little community has changed over the years.

07/23/2026

This one goes out to all of the firefighters and first responders who have been helping in Ely this past week. Whether your role was big or small, thank you for your dedication, hard work, and service in keeping Northern Minnesota safe. 🔥🌲🛶

We had a few smoky days, but we’re hopeful the worst is behind us.

Please continue to be kind, extend a little extra grace, and join us in thanking our guests this week for sticking it out despite the poor air quality. We truly appreciate everyone who made the best of the circumstances. ❤️

The private dock at Wa-Ga-Tha-Ka

07/15/2026

Do you know the story behind Chippy, our beloved chipmunk? 🐿️🌰

Back in the day, Grandma (Great-Grandma) Barbara Miner absolutely adored chipmunks. So many of them made their home around the resort that they became part of the Wa-Ga-Tha-Ka family! They were so tame that you could even feed them right from your hand. Barbara lovingly called every single one of them “Chippy,” which is exactly how our famous chipmunk carving got its name.

Over the years, the weather has taken a bit of a toll on Chippy - especially his acorn! So, we’ve made it a tradition to give him a little seasonal flair instead. Whether he’s dressed for the holidays or another special occasion, we’ll continue to take good care of our dear friend for years to come.

Be sure to stop by and say hello to Chippy on your next visit! ❤️

07/04/2026

Happy Fourth of July to all! Chippy says cheers to 100 years, Wa-Ga-Tha-Ka! 🥂

Have a fun and safe day! 🇺🇸🎉☀️

07/02/2026

A great poem we found from August of 2001!

Bringing families together for the last 100 years, here’s to 100 more! 🌊🌲☀️

Title: Wa-Ga-Tha-Ka 🖋️📝

“Wagathaka is on my mind…. It must be the late summer and time to unwind.
Wagathaka here we go…. Grab the wife and kids and we’ll head down the road. Wagathaka it’s been eight years in a row…. To be here with family is much richer than gold.
Wagathaka your waters are so cold…. It would be nice to catch a big fish before were to old.
Wagathaka your sky so blue…. The bon fires at night and stars and the moon.
Wagathaka the b**r and the food…. The being together, the boat rides under the mood.
Wagathaka there are highs and lows…. Grab the 4wheelers and get some mud on your nose.
Wagathaka Thank You Mom and Dad…. For bringing this family together, your Grandchildren are glad.
Wagathaka the memories that we have…. The photos in our scrapbooks of all the good times we’ve had.
Wagathaka the Eagles and the Loons…. Where spending time with family always ends too soon.
Wagathaka thank you so dear…. We can hardly wait to come back next year.”

06/25/2026

Newly Updated Lakeside Cabin #1 Now Available! 🏡
Looking for the perfect Northern Minnesota getaway? We'd love to welcome you to our beautifully renovated Cabin #1 at WA-GA-THA-KA Resort, available from mid-July through the fall.
This cozy cabin has been thoughtfully remodeled to offer modern comfort while preserving the warm, inviting charm of a classic Minnesota lake retreat. Spend your days fishing, swimming, boating, or simply unwinding on beautiful Wabana Lake or relaxing in our lakeview gazebo. End your evenings gathered around a campfire beneath a sky full of stars.
Check availability here:
https://www.wa-ga-tha-ka.com/lakeside-vacation/
We'd be happy to answer any questions—send us a message for availability and details!