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This resort region is rich in history and beauty. The byway and bike trail are named for the legendary lumberjack whose giant footprints produced the area’s abundant lakes, or so the tale goes. As a result, the byway is bursting with options for nature enthusiasts—birding, fishing, biking and hiking—and for golfers or casual day-trippers who prefer the boutiques, galleries and gift shops of Pequot Lakes, Pine River and Crosslake. For cycling enthusiasts, part of the byway offers wide, smooth paved shoulders, with numerous spots to stop, snack, dine, swim and relax. The Paul Bunyan State Trail has 70 miles of paved trails for biking and in-line skating. Before a visit, birders may want to check the byway Web site for an online guide to birding along the route.
Day 1
Antiques and Souvenirs: Reserve a day for browsing the boutiques and specialty stores along this circular route. Begin at the five retail shopping “squares” at Pequot Lakes, then take a short side trip south on Hwy. 371 to the boutiques, galleries and lunch or coffee shops of charming Nisswa. Back on the byway, find one-of-a-kind gifts, antiques, apparel and art in Crosslake, and finish the day with some antiquing and comfort food in Pine River.
Day 2
Wilderness Wonders: Jenkins is a gateway to the Whitefish Chain of Lakes. From there, enjoy a morning at the great fishing holes hidden along the north side of the chain. The northern loop passes through the villages of Swanburg and Manhattan Beach. Take a peaceful afternoon nature walk on the “spine” of the Byway along Highway 16, with a stop at the Uppgaard Wildlife Management Area. It’s a quiet place to watch for deer, turtles and butterflies, with guided tours during the summer.
Day 3
Golf and Resorts: Golfers flock to the area for the nationally recognized courses designed by legends of the game. Take a shot at the challenging Whitefish west of Crosslake, or the Whitebirch or Deacons Lodge courses near Breezy Point. All around the route, visitors will find their pick of family-owned resorts, a few with 100-year histories. Dozens offer cabins, townhomes and lodges along the lakes north of Brainerd. Or enjoy the glow of a campfire at one of the many area campsites.
More info:
800-450-2838 www.paulbunyanscenicbyway.org |
LENGTH: 54 Miles
ROUTE: A double-circle route between Pequot Lakes and Crosslake; also a National
Scenic Byway
ALONG THE BYWAYS
Breezy Point Resort
9252 Breezy Point Dr, Breezy Point, 56472
800-432-3777
www.breezypointresort.com
Breezy Point Resort provides the perfect setting for you, your friends and family to get away from it all. Our warmth and hospitality are what make the Breezy experience one that our guests return to year after year.
Grand View Lodge
23521 Nokomis Ave, Nisswa, 56468
866-867-8939
www.grandviewlodge.com
vacation@grandviewlodge.com
Three championship golf courses, a medley of superb restaurants, the luxurious Glacial Waters Spa, a spectacular sand beach, heated indoor pool with waterslide and hot tubs, an energized children’s program, a myriad of recreation activities, great tennis and boat rentals.
Lost Lake Lodge
7965 Lost Lake Rd, Lake Shore, 56468
800-450-2681
www.lostlake.com
Lost Lake Lodge offers an all-inclusive, full-service vacation that is surrounded by the beauty of Gull Lake and Lost Lake. This is the place for a memorable family vacation or a quiet romantic getaway.
Pine Peaks Lodge & Suites
14047 Swann Dr, Crosslake, 56442
888-488-7829
www.pinepeakscrosslake.com
At Pine Peaks Lodge & Suites, you’ll find yourself in the heart of northern Minnesota’s most desirable recreational area. Experience exceptional boating, fishing, golfing and shopping. Free full breakfast. Kids stay and eat FREE! |
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