Edge of the Wilderness
Chippewa National Forest

Length: 47 miles
Scenery:  Pine and hardwood forest, lakes, rolling hills
Highlights: Chippewa National Forest, Joyce Estates
Note: Edge of the Wilderness is also a National Scenic Byway
Contact:  Chippewa National Forest, 218-832-3161

edge of wilderness map

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 The "Edge of the Wilderness Scenic Byway" helps people discover the hidden natural and cultural history of northern Minnesota". The phrase is the basis for the last year of work that has been done by a steering committee creating the Forest History Interpretive Plan for Trunk Highway 38 from Grand Rapids to Effie, Minnesota. Together with a staff of nationally recognized consultants, the local steering committee has created an interpretive plan that identifies fourteen sites along the National Scenic Byway that best exemplify the spirit of northern Minnesota's natural and cultural history. The Plan will be used as a guide for development and interpretation along the byway, which will help enhance the communities which it connects.

The Minnesota Scenic Byway Commission designated Minnesota Trunk Highway 38 as a State Scenic Byway in September, 1994. The Commission's designation was based on the scenic, historic, recreational, archeological and natural qualities intrinsic to the Edge of the Wilderness Scenic Byway corridor. In 1996, Highway 38 was designated as one of the country's first National Scenic Byways. To date, only twenty exist. Highway 38 is the only Byway in the country known to have State, National Forest and National Scenic Byway designations. The success of projects surrounding the highway can be attributed to the hard work and dedication of the people within the local communities who have donated their time and efforts toward the enhancement of the cities and towns in which they live.

The Byway meanders 47 miles north from Grand Rapids to Effie, Minnesota. You are invited to come and celebrate our northern hospitality, hometown pride and the treasures of our natural heritage. Minnesota, midway between America's east and west coasts, is home to 12,000 lakes. It is filled with beautiful country and all the treasures of the four seasons. The Edge of the Wilderness is the rustic slice of this great state, with more than 1,000 lakes and one mighty river nearby, all in a landscape of remarkable natural beauty. It offers some of Minnesota's most popular fishing, hunting, camping, trail, winter sports and resort opportunities. For more information on what to see and do within the Edge of the Wilderness communities, call or visit the U.S. Forest Service District Office in Marcell, or contact your local Office of Tourism.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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