Burntside Lake vs St. Louis River Estuary
Two of the top-scoring lakes in St. Louis County, Minnesota, side by side.
St. Louis River Estuary is the larger of the two at 10,255 acres against 7,314 for Burntside Lake. On our rankings, St. Louis River Estuary comes out ahead for fishing, Burntside Lake comes out ahead for swimming, St. Louis River Estuary comes out ahead for boating, Burntside Lake comes out ahead for camping, Burntside Lake comes out ahead for paddling, and Burntside Lake comes out ahead for ice fishing.
| Measure | Burntside Lake | St. Louis River Estuary |
|---|---|---|
| Lake Score | 87 / 100 | 82 / 100 |
| Nearest town | Ely | Duluth |
| Surface area | 7,314 acres | 10,255 acres |
| Max depth | 126 ft | 55 ft |
| Shoreline | 103.5 mi | 195.5 mi |
| Water clarity | 18.1 ft | — |
| Public access | 6 public boat launches (concrete) | 4 public boat launches (concrete) |
| Fish species | 15 | 33 |
| Game fish | Walleye, Northern Pike, Smallmouth Bass, Black Crappie, Bluegill | Walleye, Northern Pike, Muskellunge, Tiger Muskellunge, Largemouth Bass |
| Stocked | Yes | Yes |
| Special regulations | No | No |
| Swim beach | Yes | Yes |
| Camping | Yes | Yes |
| Invasive species | spiny waterflea | None listed |
Which lake is better for…
- FishingSt. Louis River Estuary
- SwimmingBurntside Lake
- BoatingSt. Louis River Estuary
- CampingBurntside Lake
- PaddlingBurntside Lake
- Ice FishingBurntside Lake
The lakes
More comparisons
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is bigger, Burntside Lake or St. Louis River Estuary?
St. Louis River Estuary is bigger at 10,255 acres; Burntside Lake covers 7,314 acres.
Which is deeper, Burntside Lake or St. Louis River Estuary?
Burntside Lake is deeper, with a maximum depth of 126 feet against 55 feet.
Is Burntside Lake or St. Louis River Estuary better for fishing?
St. Louis River Estuary ranks higher for fishing in this directory, based on game species, lake size, access and stocking. Burntside Lake lists 15 species and St. Louis River Estuary lists 33.