It is hard to believe we are starting our 17th year at East Silent Lake Resort. It has been an honor to host so many families during our tenure at the resort. Like you, we've experienced a lot of change during that time. Our family has grown. We added 9 grandchildren who don't know a life without East Silent. We've also witnessed considerable change within the resort industry, most notably the closing and dramatic decline of small resorts across the state. We were guests at a family resort for nearly 20 years before deciding to purchase East Silent Lake Resort. We know how important your vacation is. It isn't just the experience, but the precious memories you make together. This is why we are committed to preserving the Minnesota lake resort experience for generations to come.
It is in that spirit that we share plans for the redevelopment and expansion at East Silent Lake Resort. At the earliest, construction will begin fall of 2023 and possibly even later. We will have a lot more detail about the timing of these improvements this summer. These plans will not impact any 2023 reservations. These plans will not impact the existing vacation homes, Bear Den or Cabins 9 and 10. It will not impact the resort activities, amenities or the customer service and attention to detail that makes East Silent Lake Resort special.
We are excited about the future. Thank you for the honor of letting us serve you the past 17 years. We look forward to hosting your family vacation for years to come.
The Leonard Family
Preservation of Original Cabins
Our original cabins (i.e. Cabins 1-8) are approaching 70 years of age. Built in the late 50's, Mrs. O'Haver sat on a 5 gallon pail overseeing their construction. According to her relatives, she was an entrepreneur, a successful businesswoman, and very particular. Her cabins have certainly stood the test of time. Over the years, we have made many updates to the cabins while preserving their rustic, knotty pine charm. However, it is time for a significant remodel and replacement of infrastructure to preserve these cabins for another 70 years.
O'Haver Village
Over the next couple years, we will begin moving the existing cabins away from the lake to meet current shoreland standards. Below is a map of the future location of Cabins 1-8. Once moved, we will be making significant improvements to the cabins, including updated well and septic systems, new crawl spaces with larger water heaters and new water lines, modern heating/cooling systems, upgraded electrical and internet, and replacing the siding, windows, insulation, and roofs. We are essentially building new, year-round cabins while preserving the traditional knotty pine cabin interiors.
In addition to relocating and updating Cabins 1-8, we will be incorporating several new amenities. These are reflected on the map and include a new pavilion, fire pit, playground and sports courts. This area has affectionately been named O'Haver Village to reflect our appreciation for and connection to the resort's storied history and the people that came before us.
Finally, recognizing that the resort grounds are becoming more spread out, we will be expanding our fleet of golf carts.
New Vacation Homes
Once the existing cabins have been moved and remodeled, we intend to build new vacation homes. Phase 1 vacation homes will overlook East Silent Lake. They will be 3 bedroom/3 bathroom vacation homes and range in size from 2000 - 2500 sq ft. The new units will meet today's shoreland setback standards. We intend to offer a mixture of vacation home rentals and ownership options. Phase 2 vacation homes will be located in the park, adjacent the sand volleyball and sports court.
Expanded Beach & Marina
During the summer, the beach is the heart of the resort. Over the years, we have made several enhancements to the water front, including a new clustered dock system, expanded beach and an expansive aqua park system for kids of all ages. We have planned several additional improvements to make your lake life even more enjoyable. In the next few years, we will be adding a beachside restroom and a spacious common patio near the beach, additional seating and continued improvements and expansion to the aqua park.
Pool & Enhanced Recreational Opportunities
East Silent Lake Resort is always looking for new recreational opportunities. Spring, summer, fall or winter, you should have no shortage of activities to enjoy. While it is always difficult to predict the timing of new amenities and recreational opportunities, here are some of the improvements that are on resort's master plan.
Heated swimming pool and splash pad
Expanded beach, lakeside patio, aqua park and other lake-based recreation
Walking, hiking and fitness trails
Horseshoes, gaga pit, badminton, lawn bowling, and shuffleboard
Frisbee golf
Additional fire pits and pavillions
New and enhanced children's playground
Expanded lessons, youth programming, and social events
Site plans are intended for illustrative purposes only and should be treated as general guidance only. The layout and redevelopment plans are subject to change without notice. No assurances are made as to the nature or availability of these amenities. Some amenities are subject to additional fees. Computer generated images and photography are intended for illustrative purposes only. The material provided herein is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy real estate.