The Company
At Loons Nest Coffee, every cup begins with the land. Our roots stretch deep into the driftless hills of Southeast Minnesota, where rolling bluffs and quiet valleys remind us that nature shapes everything worth savoring. From there, our journey carries north along the famed Gunflint Trail, at the edge of the Boundary Waters Wilderness—a place where loons call across still lakes and mornings arrive wrapped in mist.
We roast with intention, honoring the landscapes that inspire us. Each blend reflects a piece of Minnesota’s wild beauty: the calm of a forest trail, the sparkle of water under a summer sun, the hush of winter snow. Brewing our coffee is more than a ritual—it’s a way to share the serenity, adventure, and wonder of the outdoors with everyone who takes a sip.
Loons Nest Coffee is more than a brand; it’s a tribute to the wilderness we love. Whether you’re paddling through northern waters or simply pausing at your kitchen table, our coffees are crafted to bring the spirit of Minnesota’s outdoors into your everyday moments.
The People
The Carlson family and the staff at Loons Nest Coffee are at the heart of our mission to create a moment in the day where we can leave behind the everyday and clear our heads with a beautiful cup of coffee that reflects the natural world around us.
The Coffee
The land that the coffee grows in is the core to it’s character. The soil, climate, elevation of the place play a role in the genetic potential of each variatal. The people who grow and process the coffee are another key element that makes each lot we buy unique. We are always searching for great beans to turn into your cup of coffee. Coffee is a crop and changes in quality over time, so what we offer will change over time as quality form each origin and farm changes with each harvest. We serve the following markets:
Online direct sales of our branded coffee for your home.
Wholesale coffee beans for coffee shops, restaurants, offices and retail.
Fundraising with your organization’s custom label.
Custom private label coffee for corporate gifts or wedding favors.
The Roastery 101 E Cedar St, Houston, MN 55943
Our Houston, MN roastery is located in the scenic bluff country of the Root River valley. The scenery of the driftless area offers lots of inspiration as we roast coffee on the main intersection of the town. Houston is also home to the International Owl Center which inspires our Electric Owl Espresso and Uhu Brew blends. You can find those coffees at the owl center gift shop and a large selection at the Root River Market right up the street.
The Shop 7575 Gunflint Trail, Grand Marais, MN 55943
At Loons Nest Coffee, every cup begins with the land. Nestled along the storied Gunflint Trail, our shop is a sanctuary for travelers, locals, and wilderness lovers alike. Rooted in the driftless hills of Southeast Minnesota and inspired by the Boundary Waters, we bring our brand’s promise of “Coffee in the Wild” to life in a space that feels both rustic and welcoming.
Step inside and you’ll be greeted by the aroma of small-batch roasts and the warmth of fresh pastries. Online reviews consistently praise our maple lattes, cardamom rolls while comfort foods like grilled cheese and croissant breakfast sandwiches become staples for those returning from the trail. We proudly serve organic, fair-trade beans roasted with care, ensuring every sip reflects our commitment to craft and quality.
Guests describe Loons Nest Coffee as a “hidden gem” and “worth the drive,” noting the friendly staff and serene setting. With views of pine forests and lakes, it’s a place where coffee becomes part of the wilderness experience. As the first coffee shop on the Gunflint Trail, we’re honored to be a landmark for adventurers and a gathering place for community.
Whether you’re paddling into the Boundary Waters, hiking the Northwoods, or simply seeking a quiet morning by the lake, Loons Nest Coffee offers more than a drink—it offers a moment of connection to Minnesota’s wild beauty.