THROUGH STAR TRIBUNE'S STEALS

$154 per person for a two-night fully equipped Boundary Waters Canoe Area trip from Voyageur Canoe Outfitters (regular price: $309). Included food, canoe, tent, sleeping bags and backpacks to carry it all. Also included a third night in cabins at Voyageur and an all-you-can-eat pancake and sausage breakfast before canoeing off. Food ranged from summer sausage and fresh bread to dehydrated camping food, but was plentiful and satisfied adults and two picky children. Even packed fish batter and oil should we get lucky.

THROUGH CROWD CUT:

$199 for two nights at Lutsen Resort's Sea Villa townhomes on the shores of Lake Superior (regular price: $398). One bedroom with a loft and full kitchen with a small refrigerator and Weber grill out back. Were given s'mores fixings at check-in for the fire rings on the shore. Included free use of two pools, par 3 golf course, disc golf, shuffleboard and other amenities. Lutsen offers lots of classes, including kayaking and guided hikes, but some fill up quickly so plan ahead.