Big Bay Means Business

2024 looks different around here, and we’re not talking about the snow (or lack thereof). Big Bay is on the precipice of change as long standing businesses sell to new owners, new businesses pop up, and existing businesses pivot to accommodate the needs of the community and its visitors. Visit our “Big Bay Businesses” tab on our website for more details about our locally owned businesses.


Huron Mountain Outfitters announced some updates to the shop including introduction of rentable e-bikes, along with kayaks, paddle boards, canoes and a fishing boat. Stop into the Outfitters from 7am-5pm everyday starting May 15th (opening day of walleye season!) for coffee by donation, live bait and friendly, familiar faces. If the door happens to be locked, feel free to ring the doorbell! Someone is usually in the building to assist you.

Across the street, in a stand alone log cabin sits Big Bay’s newest business: Huron Mountain Ice Cream. Expected to open Sunday, May 13th, the shop will offer fresh pressed waffle cones, hand scooped ice cream and other sweet treats. Pop on by between 2pm-9pm to satiate your sweet tooth this summer!

The Lumberjack Tavern, a well-loved local watering hole, is whipping up new creations in the kitchen, with plans to renovate the biergarten before summer. Stay tuned! This longstanding historic establishment now offers trivia on Mondays starting at 7pm and a Friday Fish Fry!

A few of our local lodging accommodations have undergone changes, as well! The Big Bay Motel, recently purchased by Jack and Meghan Cram, share that side of the 550 with a shop that holds their family name, Cram’s General Store. Stop by Cram’s for all your needs: gas, food, Big Bay merch and soft serve in the summertime! You can also drop in next door at the Hungry Hollow for a delicious meal everyday from 7am-2pm. 

The Picture Bay Motel also had a change of ownership, and we look forward to the welcoming new owners to the Big Bay Business scene.

Other lodging options include Tranquility Haven, located on the beautiful shores of Lake Superior. Book one of the units at The Outpost and experience the beauty of the northwoods from a hip, cozy space in town. 

Assisted Independence, a new business owned by Jim and Laura Mohrman, is located in the house next to The Big Bay Motel. This six bed assisted living has a primary goal of assisting elderly in living their best lives. A passion for owner Laura, who recognizes that independence can be a difficult loss for a person to grieve. Now fully staffed, Assisted Independence looks forward to taking more residents and growing their capacity. 


Change is upon us, even in the quiet town of Big Bay, and as we embrace these transitions we also stay connected to what makes this area such a beautiful place to live and visit. If you choose to visit, please be mindful of the unique characteristics that make Big Bay what it is– our pristine lake front areas, trail systems and local parks are access points to observe wildlife habitats, stretches of untouched wilderness and the fragile landscapes that shape the great north. Visit our website to learn more about how the Big Bay Stewardship Council (BBSC) works to protect and celebrate this area and consider a BBSC membership or donation to support our efforts! 

Are you a business in Big Bay looking to partner with the Big Bay Stewardship Council? Contact us at coordinator@bigbaystewardship.org! We’d love to chat with you!