The dealership is an awesome company. The staff was phenomenal and assisted with every detail of the purchase. The ram truck that I purchased was at a price point that was lower than the comparable trucks I looked at elsewhere and was immaculate when I picked it up to take home. I just found my favorite dealership from here on in. I will most likely have all my maintenance done at Kimber Creek. Thank you for all the assistance you gave me. -Pat
Once again Kimber Creek Ford did a fantastic job performing preventative maintenance on my truck. My Service Advisors were Bri and Craig. They displayed professionalism, an Indepth knowledge of their jobs, and a great eagerness to accommodate me. Great service, and great people are just some of the reasons I chose Kimber Creek Ford for my vehicle maintenance needs! -John
Welcome to Pine River! Welcome to Pine River!
As we look back on a very successful and progressive 2024, now we look forward to a promising 2025!
For public services, 2024 brought us a new additional park area along the beautiful Pine River, upgraded restrooms and a new park structure at the swimming beach park, a playground with new equipment and upgrades to the swimming area.
We are anxious to see all of these get utilized and expanded in 2025!
For events we have seen the reintroduction of Summerfest, an upgraded and very successful Picklefest event, a record-breaking Bluegrass Festival and a new Rollin’ on the River musical event at the majestic Rock Riffle Dam.
In 2025, we look forward to making them all even better as well as adding some new events! Stay tuned and read on in this publication for our Calendar of Events for all of the other events in our area.
Our business community continues to thrive with new service businesses, new eating establishments and the invitation to others to join our business community! Come see what Pine River has to offer with its great location, business diversity and great opportunities!
Indeed, 2025 looks like a very bright and exciting year for our Pine River area! We are excited to have some new chamber board members and elected
officials on our board of directors and look forward to serving the community in the upcoming year.
I would like to say a sincere thank you to all of the people who support our community, volunteer for staffing our chamber building, helping community events and supporting what we do. Without your involvement our community would not be the great place that it is.
Truly, we are proud of our community. Again – thank you!
- Jay Cline, President Pine River Chamber of Commerce
Emalee Hedberg: SERVPRO of Brainerd and Park Rapids
Gretchen Koering: Hanneken Insurance
Kari Crimmins: North Pointe Realty
Lisa Kaneski: Dairy Queen
Michelle Hoefs: Happy Dancing Turtle
Morgan Johnson: Pine River State Bank
Travis Grimler: Pineandlakes Echo Journal
PINEANDLAKES
ECHO JOURNAL STAFF
PUBLISHER
Pete Mohs pete.mohs@brainerddispatch.com
ADVERTISING: Kathy Bittner Lee
kathy.bittnerlee@pineandlakes.com
EDITOR
Nancy Vogt nancy.vogt@pineandlakes.com
STAFF WRITER
Travis Grimler
travis.grimler@pineandlakes.com
GRAPHIC DESIGN/LAYOUT
Chris Johnson: Forum Communications
COVER PHOTO Courtesy of Travis Grimler
2025 Calendar of Events
JANUARY
1: Adult Winter Reading Program at the library, Snow Time to Read, Jan. 1-Feb. 28
FEBRUARY
15: Back to Basics at Pine River-Backus School, www.happydancingturtle.org for more details
MARCH
1: Hotdish Fundraiser - Chamber, at The Warehouse.
7: Pine River-Backus PTO Family Fun Night, 6 p.m. at PR-B School.
17-21: Pine River-Backus School spring break
22: Annual Warehouse Garage Sale & Silent Auction, at The Warehouse, 300 Norway Ave., 218-587-2021
APRIL
12: Miss Pine River Scholarship Pageant, 7 p.m. at Pine River-Backus High School
19: Community Easter Egg Hunt, 10 a.m. at Pine River Backus School
29: Evening in Tuscany Spaghetti Dinner, 5-6:30 p.m. at Union Church in Hackensack. Visit www.faithinactioncass.com
MAY
10: Minnesota Fishing Opener, Diehard anglers head to the lakes.
10-11: MN High School Rodeo. Cass County Fairgrounds in Pine River. Visit www.facebook.com/MNHSRA
21: Take A Kid Fishing Day sponsored by the Pine River Lions Club, where youngsters are introduced to the art and science of angling
23: Pine River Market Square Farmers and Crafters Market, 2:30-5:30 p.m. FRIDAYS through Sept. 26, featuring locally grown produce, baked goods and crafts along the Paul Bunyan Trail in front of the Pine River Depot
23: Pine River Railway Depot tours, 1-5 p.m. FRIDAYS through Sept. 26
26: Memorial Day services
31: Backus Lions Garage Sales at Backus Nazarene Church
JUNE
FRIDAYS through Sept. 26: Pine River Market Square Farmers and Crafters Market, 2:305:30 p.m., featuring locally grown produce, baked goods and crafts along the Paul Bunyan Trail in front of the Pine River Depot
FRIDAYS through Sept 26: Pine River Railway Depot, open for tours 1-5 p.m.
2: Children’s Summer Reading Program at the library, Read, Renew, Repeat, June 2-Aug. 1
14: Flag Retirement Ceremony, American Legion
25-28: Cass County Fair in Pine River, midway games and rides, 4-H exhibits, animals, grandstand events, bluegrass music and food
25-28: Summer Book Sale - Friends of the Pine River Library at the Cass County Fairgrounds in Pine River
26-28: Pine River Lions Cass County Fair Food Booth
26-29: Scamp Trailer Homecoming Rally at Moondance Event Area in Walker, more information at www.scamptrailers.com
27-28: Our Lady of Lourdes Rhubarb Fest, all things Rhubarb and crafts.
28: Summerfest, Pine River’s signature summer event that includes fun events and a parade
28: United Methodist Church Walkin’ Tacos
29: All You Can Eat Pancake Breakfast by the Pine River Lions at the Cass County Fairgrounds
JULY
FRIDAYS through Sept. 26: Pine River Market
Square Farmers and Crafters Market, 2:305:30 p.m., featuring locally grown produce, baked goods and crafts along the Paul Bunyan Trail in front of the Pine River Depot
FRIDAYS through Sept 26: Pine River Railway Depot, open for tours 1-5 p.m.
7-11: UW Sports Camp at The Warehouse, 218-587-2021
20: Backus Lions Fly-In Pancake Breakfast at the Backus Airport, 8 a.m.-noon; fly, drive, bike or walk; proceeds benefit the Backus Fire Depar tment and First Responders
23: Block Party at The Warehouse, 6-8 p.m., 218-587-2021
AUGUST
FRIDAYS through Sept. 26: Pine River Market
Square Farmers and Crafters Market, 2:305:30 p.m., featuring locally grown produce, baked goods and crafts along the Paul Bunyan Trail in front of the Pine River Depot
FRIDAYS through Sept 26: Pine River Railway Depot, open for tours 1-5 p.m.
1-2: Pine River Community Garage Sale, featuring oodles of registered garage sales all over town
1-2: Summer Book Sale - Friends of the Pine River Library at the Cass County Fairgrounds in Pine River
7: Hunt Utilities Group/Happy Dancing Turtle Open House, Hunt Utilities Group Resilient Living Campus 5-7 p.m.
9: Backus Cornfest, celebrate with Colonel Cobber by participating in fun activities, including a craft and flea market, bake sale and games, corn on the cob feast, parade and fireworks
16: Wefelmeyer Picklefest, celebrate one of the first industries in Pine River with music, crafters, food trucks and family fun
20-24: Lakes Bluegrass Festival featuring national and regional bluegrass bands at a site just north of Pine River with camping available; visit www.lakesbluegrassfestival.com
30-31: Arts Off 84 Art Crawl, follow the signs on Highway 84, northeast of Pine River; visit www.artsoff84.com
SEPTEMBER
FRIDAYS through Sept. 26: Pine River Market Square Farmers and Crafters Market, 2:305:30 p.m., featuring locally grown produce, baked goods and crafts along the Paul Bunyan Trail in front of the Pine River Depot
FRIDAYS through Sept 26: Pine River Railway Depot, open for tours 1-5 p.m..
6-7: Heritage Days Pre-1840’s Buckskinner Encampment at Forbes Park, Pine River, free admission and camping for all buckskinners and voyageurs with period correct encampment demonstrations, living history and more
6-7: Summer Book Sale - Friends of the Pine River Library at the Cass County Fairgrounds in Pine River
12: Wine, Beer & Spirits, 5:30-8:30 p.m. at the Pine River American Legion featuring samplings of local vendors, drawings, silent auction to support the chamber and a local non-profit organization
26: Fall Booya Dinner, 5-6:30 p.m. at Union Church in Hackensack, www.faithinactioncass.com
OCTOBER
11: Indoor Pine River Market Square Farmers and Crafters Market at The Warehouse
13: Go Pine River/Distinguished Service Banquet, 6 p.m. social and 7 p.m. dinner at Bites Pub & Grub
31: Halloween Party - Pine River
NOVEMBER
8: Firearms deer hunting opener, the Pine River area boasts thousands of acres of county, state and federal land
8: Indoor Pine River Market Square Farmers and Crafters Market at The Warehouse
8: Backus Lions Holiday Sale, at the Backus Nazarene Church
11: Veterans Day Recognition, American Legion
13: Faith in Action Raffle Drawing Open House, 4:30-5:30 p.m. at the Faith in Action Office in Hackensack, www.faithinactioncass.com
DECEMBER
6: Pine River American Legion Auxiliary Arts & Crafts Sale, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at the American Legion
13: Parade of Lights, be part of the glittering floats, cheerful carolers and spirit of the season as Pine River lights up the town with many events, including a lighted parade at 5 p.m.
13: Pine River American Legion Auxiliary Lunch with Santa, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at the American Legion
13: Pine River Lions Food Booth after the Parade of Lights at the Chamber
• Check www.pinerivermn.com and Facebook for event updates •
Pine River Area Talent brings art and history to Pine River audiences
In 2023, a troupe of devoted historians and artists gathered to commemorate the 125th anniversary of the unsolved murder of Pine River founder George Angus Barclay.
Thus, Pine River Area Talent — or PRAT — was born.
The first-event was over dinner at the Barclay Cafe, followed by several theatrical re-enactments of the investigation into Barclay's death in the basement of Lifehouse Coffee.
This organization, a gathering of individuals seeking the enhancement of the Pine River community through art, continues its mission into the foreseeable future.
The group continued into 2024, hosting three Rollin' on the River concerts. Live bands on barges played to an audience at the city's newly improved Dam Park all the while families lounged, fished or swam.
The event is expected to grow in 2025. PRAT intends to bring back the murder mystery for future performances to keep the spirit of the city's founder, and his mysterious death, alive.
Join the fun, food and dancing with free concerts at the Pine River Riffle Dam, featuring great local talent performing from a barge on the Pine River in front of the Pine River community beach and pavilion. Bring your blankets or lawn chairs and enjoy an evening by the beautiful Pine River.
These free, family-friendly and leasheddog friendly concerts are a great opportunity to enjoy music, the river, a summer evening and catching up with old acquaintances or meeting new friends.
Swimmers can enjoy the swim raft while listening to the music. Fishing is also available from the pier; just bring your gear. Rollin' on the River takes place every Thursday from June 12-Aug. 28. Dinner is available for purchase beginning at 5 p.m. with the free concert from 6-8 p.m.
(A legacy of service.)
The times and technology may have changed, but the Elsenpeter family’s commitment to service continues. Come join the family!
Elsenpeters–Preston, Tristan, Jesse, and Sebastian
Market Square farmers and crafters market
Find fresh produce on Fridays, May 23-Sept. 26, 2025
Pine River Market Square is a farmers and crafters market that runs from 2:30-5:30 p.m. Fridays, May 23-Sept. 26, alongside the Paul Bunyan Trail in front of the Pine River Depot near the Pine River Chamber Information Center.
Vendors provide fresh produce, starter plants, bread and other baked goods, processed chickens and more, all grown within 50 miles of Pine River, as well as handcrafted items.
Indoor markets will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays, Oct. 11 and Nov. 8, at The Warehouse.
For more information, including vending information, visit www.prmarketsquare.wordpress.com or email prmarketsquare@gmail.com.
Together, we can live healthier.
In this place, we face challenges head on, believing that with community and commitment, we can build something better. Live healthier. Take care of each other.
With top medical providers and personalized care, Essentia Health helps you realize your best health where you live.
St. Joseph’s–Pine River Clinic 280 Barclay Ave West | Pine River 218-587-4416
Monday–Friday: 8 am–4:30 pm
Summerfest returns at the height of summer when Pine River throws its annual event with a full slate of activities Saturday, June 28.
Both residents and visitors flock to Pine River’s largest summer festival that features fun for the whole family. Activities include a kayak race, merchant sidewalk sales, flea market, library book sale, farmers and crafters market and, of course, music and food.
The Catholic church hosts its annual Rhubarb Fest and the United Methodist Church offers walkin’ tacos.
Other attractions include kids activities and the Summerfest Parade that winds its way down town to Barclay Avenue. The chamber sponsors this annual fun event.
The annual Cass County Fair will run Thursday-Sunday, June 25-28, at the Cass County Fairgrounds in Pine River, just off Highway 371, offering competition, recreation, agriculture, food and history all in one.
In operation since 1905, the fair fea tures grandstand events, 4-H livestock and other exhibits, a midway filled with carnival rides, a talent contest, bluegrass music, lots of food and a beer garden.
Past years’ grandstand attractions have included bull riding, pig races and baja rallies.
Be sure to visit the livestock buildings to see chickens, rabbits, cows, pigs, goats and more on exhibit by area youth. Stick around for the livestock shows, where animals are walked out into the open air arena by their owners, examined and judged. Young kids will enjoy petting animals too.
The Cass County Fair is traditionally when the annual Farm Family of the Year and Outstanding Senior Citizens are announced.
Block
Party
at
The Warehouse Families flock here for fun on Wednesday, July 23, 2025
Riverview Church and The Warehouse will host the annual Block Party on Wednesday, July 23, at The Warehouse, 307 Norway Ave., Pine River. This family fun night from 6-8 p.m. features games and prizes, face painting, hair beading, food and entertainment, all for free.
Pine River Area Garage Sale
Shop for bargains
Friday-Saturday, Aug. 1-2, 2025
You’ll want to visit Pine River on Friday and Saturday, Aug. 1-2, for the annual Pine River Community & Merchant Garage Sale, sponsored by the Pine River Chamber. You’ll be sure to find deals on clothing, furniture, housewares and much more at oodles of garage sales in and around Pine River. Pick up your FREE copy of the sales map in the Echoland Piper Shopper, at the Pine River Information Center at Highway 371 and Barclay Avenue or on the Chamber’s Facebook page.
Backus Cornfest
Fun-filled activities abound Saturday, Aug. 9, 2025
Celebrated since 1976, the annual Backus Cornfest event will run Saturday, Aug. 9, with fun-filled activities for the entire family.
Events include a craft and vendor fair, parade and a delicious corn feed dinner with corn, ham, wild rice hotdish, potato salad and watermelon at the fire hall. There are kids games and prizes, and a fishing contest.
A corn-eating contest is part of the festivities as well. Evening activities include a street dance and beer garden, culminating in a fireworks show at dusk. For more information, visit www.backuscornfest.com.
Wefelmeyer Picklefest
Find out why Pine River is on the ‘pickle map’ Aug. 16, 2025
Over 3,000 people attended the inaugural Wefelmeyer Picklefest in 2023, and last year’s event was popular as well. The third annual Wefelmeyer Picklefest will take place Saturday, Aug. 16.
When Fred Wefelmeyer arrived on March 25, 1918, he put Pine River on the nation’s “pickle map.” The Pine River Chamber of Commerce and the Wefelmeyer Picklefest Committee are continuing on in that same spirit.
Fred Wefelmeyer, representing the Thiessen Pickle Company of Omaha, Nebraska, proposed to build a pickle factory in the village if people would contract to grow 150 acres of cucumbers. By 1925, Mr. Wefelmeyer had his main office in Pine River with salt stations in many small towns in the area.
The Wefelmeyer Picklefest will include live music, crafters, food trucks, free samples, free photo booth, chance to meet members of the Wefelmeyer family, pickle for a nickel and a pickle tasting contest.
Purchase a pickle passport and follow the pickle path to redeem fabulous gifts from pickle passport participating businesses.
The Pine River Chamber sponsors this outstand ing event.
Michelle Malchow OD
Lakes Bluegrass Festival
The 19th annual Lakes Bluegrass Festival will take place Wednesday-Sunday, Aug. 20-24, at the beautiful Lakes Music and Events Park in Pine River.
The lineup features the best in national and regional bluegrass groups, including Little Roy and Lizzy Show, Kristy Cox and Grasstime, Williamson Branch, Country Current, The Baker Family, The Waddington Brothers, The Pale Ales, Shaffers Lost 40, plus more performers.
In addition to five big days of music on the main stage, the festival features jam sessions, music workshops, camping with showers, food and beverages. There’s free parking and shuttle service.
The shows go on rain or shine as the concert area includes large tents for shade or inclement weather. Festival-goers should bring a lawn chair, relax and hear some of the most accomplished bluegrass music artists in the world!
Flexible ticket packages are available (in advance or at the gate) from a single day, single evening or various weekend packages. Camping is available for an additional fee.
For tickets and more information, visit www.lakesbluegrassfestival.com or call 844-620-GRAS (4727).
Arts Off 84
Art lovers, travel Highway 84
Saturday-Sunday, Aug. 30-31, 2025
Labor Day weekend offers art lovers the opportunity to travel 25 miles of scenic, winding road for the Arts Off 84 Art Crawl. The 18th annual event will take place Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 30-31.
The Art Crawl stretches along Highway 84 from Pine River to Longville. More than 80 participating artists offer their artworks for sale in art forms that include painting, photography, furniture, glass, jewelry, pottery, ceramics, wood carvings, woodwork, handmade soaps and lotions, metal, wire, stone, cement, fiber, paper, leather, homemade canned and baked goods, and upcycled items.
Artists who participate in this event create high-end art, as well as quality, handcrafted items. Quality is the No. 1 priority and only handmade items are accepted for the juried event.
Signs will be posted to direct motorists to the various sites in the Art Crawl. Starting in July, artist directories are available throughout the Brainerd and Walker areas, including the Pine River Chamber of Commerce, Longville Chamber of Commerce and many area businesses. The directory also includes the map of the artist locations.
View artist biographies and photos of their work at www.artsoff84.com.
The concept of Arts Off 84 is to celebrate a wide range of art appreciation. Artists interested in participating in the Art Crawl can email artsoff84@yahoo.com, or visit www.artsoff84.com for registration materials and more information.
Heritage Days Encampment
Take a step back in time
Saturday-Sunday, Sept. 6-7, 2025
Take a step back in time at Forbes Park in Pine River to see knife and tomahawk throwing demonstrations, historic camping including a tipi, flint knapping, blacksmithing, rope making, finger weaving and more at the Heritage Days Encampment on Saturday-Sunday, Sept. 6-7.
It is free and open to the public. Plus there’s free camping for all buckskinners and voyageurs with period correct encampments!
Usher in the magical holiday season at the annual Parade of Lights on Saturday, Dec. 13.
Bundle up to watch a winter parade at 5 p.m. on Barclay Avenue featuring sparkling floats decorated in holiday lights. This festive day culminates with fireworks lighting up the crisp winter sky.
The parade features a different theme each year and Pine River Chamber of Commerce gift certificates worth $50 for Best Use of Lights in Theme and Overall Best Use of Lights.
After the parade, an open house at the Pine River Chamber Information Center offers free hot chocolate, hot apple cider and Christmas cookies and doughnuts. Stay warm by a yuletide bonfire just outside the Historic Depot and Chamber Information Center and enjoy the fireworks display crackling in the night air behind Pine River State Bank.
The Pine River American Legion hosts its annual Lunch with Santa event for children.
A craft project will be held along with other activities.
Celebrate the holidays in Pine River at this Pine River Chamber-sponsored event!
Parade of Lights
utdoors enthusiasts will find everything they need in and around Pine River.
The city’s namesake Pine River offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, canoeing, boating and swimming. The Pine River flows through many lakes, including the Whitefish Chain of 14 lakes. Public accesses are conveniently located in Pine River.
The Paul Bunyan State Trail conveniently goes right through town for snowmobilers, walkers, runners, bicyclists and inline skaters.
The Paul Bunyan State Trail stretches from Brainerd to Bemidji, traveling right by the Pine River
Chamber of Commerce Information Center where enthusiasts can park, fill water bottles, use the restrooms, and begin their journey.
Pine River is surrounded by hundreds of miles of other trails for outdoor
enthusiasts who like to hike, bike, walk, snowmobile, cross-country ski or ride an all-terrain vehicle.
The Spider Lake area is just 10 miles west of Pine River and is known for its miles of ATV and snowmobile trails that wind through the Foot Hills State Forest.
Those who love the outdoors can also camp and hunt in the Pine River area, as well as use the city skating rink.
Pine River anchors the northwest corner of the popular Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway, a 54-mile route through 14 area jurisdictions that offers scenic beauty and informational kiosks. You’ll find a couple of hiking venues along this route as well — the Veterans Hiking Trail off County Road 16 and the Uppgaard Wildlife Management Area off County Road 11.
Fishing
The Pine River area boasts more than 430 lakes of various sizes, all teeming with game fish.
Anglers will find walleye, northern pike, largemouth bass and panfish, all abundant and ready to take your bait.
Public accesses are available on almost all area lakes, making it easy to get your boat into the water.
Canoe and boat registration can be purchased locally at the Pine River DMV and many of the gas stations sell licenses.
Visit the Pine River Information Center for all area public access maps.
Biking/inline skating
Drawing bike enthusiasts from all over the country, the Paul Bunyan State Trail is the longest continuously paved trail in the country at 115 miles long and extends all the way from Crow Wing State Park to Lake Bemidji State Park. Pine River is called the Birthplace of the Paul Bunyan Trail thanks to the president of the Pine River Chamber of Commerce at that time who made it happen!
If mountain biking is more your style, Pine River is close to the Cuyuna Lakes Mountain Bike Trails, which are 30 miles of Red Gold that twist their way through the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area, the towns of Crosby, Ironton, Cuyuna and Rivertown. With dozens of purpose-built trails to choose from, everyone from beginner to pro can enjoy the breath-taking rides and overlooks.
Canoeing/kayaking
The Pine River is a Minnesota Department of Natural Resources designated canoe route, with nearly 60 miles marked as a water trail for travel. The DNR offers free maps for its water trails that show campsites, mileage, obstructions and portages, and any rapids.
Free maps of the Pine River system are available at the Information Center in Pine River. Check at the Information Center for river conditions.
The Pine River has only Class I and II rapids, which are easily navigated. The local river is great for both beginning and experienced kayakers and canoeists.
Originating north of Backus, the Pine River flows through the city of Pine River, the Whitefish Chain of Lakes and the city of Crosslake
enroute to the Mississippi River. Dams are located in Pine River and Crosslake. Along the way, the river drops 85 feet, an average of 2.3 feet per mile. The river’s width varies from 25 feet to 150 feet.
Just south of Pine River are two campsites with fire rings, picnic tables, tent clearings and an open-air latrine. There is no cost to camp here, but also no way to reserve the sites. They are beautifully wooded and located just along the Pine River accessible to canoers and kayakers, as well as an access off of the Paul Bunyan State Trail.
Canoe and boat registration can be purchased locally at the Pine River DMV.
Canoe and boating guide maps are available at the Pine River Chamber and on www.dnr.state.mn.us/canoeing/pineriver.
Hunting
Pine River is the hub of thousands of acres of public land just made for hunters.
White-tailed deer, bear, ruffed grouse, geese and ducks are always abundant and you’ll find it easy to access public land.
Hunting licenses are available at several stores throughout the hunting season.
Golfing
The area abounds with golf courses, including Wildwedge Golf and Mini Golf in Jenkins. Wildwedge is a 9-hole golf course and fun mini golf course. Wildwedge is seven miles south of Pine River on Highway 371.
Other easily accessible courses are Whitefish Golf Course, Crosswoods Golf in Crosslake, Emily Greens in Emily and Golden Eagle Golf in Fifty Lakes.
Ice skating
The city of Pine River has a public ice skating rink located just west of the post office. Skaters can park on the plowed parking lot at the site and skate from daylight until 10 p.m.
The rink includes a 16- by 16-foot heated warming house to accommodate large groups. The warming house has shelves and outlets for coffee or hot chocolate makers or roasters. The rink also has a portable toilet.
Donations and advertising on the rink boards helped contribute to the project. Donations are still sought for more planned improvements. For updated information on the rink, visit Friends of the Pine River Ice Rink on Facebook. Free skates and helmets are available through Pine River-Backus Community Education.
Camping
Pine River offers a variety of camping off of the Paul Bunyan Trail. Located just over half a mile away from the trail and the Pine River Chamber of Commerce is Forbes City Park.
See the shops downtown along Barclay Avenue, cross the new bridge over the beautiful rock riffle dam and choose a camping site in the shady, peaceful Forbes City Park.
The park features modern, handicap accessible restrooms, optional electric hookups, fire rings, picnic tables and fire wood, all for a bargain per night.
Just south of Pine River are two walkin campsites with fire rings, picnic tables, tent clearings and an open-air latrine. There is no cost to camp here, but also no way to reserve the sites. They are beautifully wooded and located just along the Pine River accessible to canoes and kayaks as well.
Plenty of other camping opportunities exist in and near Pine River:
► DNR campground at Spider Lake in the Foot Hills State Forest.
► U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Campground/Recreation Area in Crosslake.
► 3 Arrows RV & Campground at Highway 371 and County Road 44.
► Tuck-A-Way Resort & Campground on Lake Hattie.
Hiking and biking
Pine River is the “Birthplace of the Paul Bunyan Trail,” with the former railroad bed turned recreation trail traveling directly through Pine River along the west side of Highway 371. This trail runs from Brainerd to Bemidji and is the perfect choice for walking, biking and inline skating in spring, summer and fall, as well as snowmobiling when the snow flies.
Four-wheeling
The Spider Lake trails west of Pine River travel 29 miles through the Foot Hills State Forest. From smooth and sandy to rough and rocky, the trails provide a challenging ride as they curve around lakes and ponds, follow ridges and traverse several hills and slopes throughout the forest.
ATV trails are open year-round, except on groomed, signed snowmobile trails and during spring thaw.
Parking and trail access are located 12 miles west of Pine River to south on Spider McKinley Forest Road.
Camping sites are available along the trails as well.
Snowmobiling
Pine River is the center of some of the greatest snowmobiling in north central Minnesota. The Paul Bunyan Trail travels through Pine River, and snowmobilers use this trail to access other area trails and Snowway One, 10 miles west of Pine River. You’ll find several area snowmobile clubs grooming trails often during the winter when adequate snow is available.
Snowmobile maps are available at the Pine River Information Center.
Skiing
The Cut Lake cross-country ski trail lies just 10.5 miles west of Pine River on County Road 2, offering 16.5 kilometers of trails that range from easy to difficult. Benches are located throughout the trail system, along with a couple shelters and fireplaces.
Other Cass County cross country ski trails include:
► Hiram Trail: 8 miles west of Hackensack on County State Aid Highway 6.
► Goose Lake Trail: Halfway between Hackensack and Longville near the Woodtick Trail.
► Washburn Trail: Southeast of Washburn Lake near Outing.
The Lake Country Nordic Ski Club grooms cross country ski trails when adequate snow is available.
Skiers can also visit the groomed Deep Portage Environmental Learning Center ski trails and the Shingobee Recreation Area trails. These trails are not managed under the state’s Grants-in-Aid program and do not require a ski pass.
To contact the Lake Country Nordic Ski Club, email lakecountrynordic@ gmail.com. Visit http://chitwood1.wix. com/lcnskiclub or http://www.skinnyski.com/trails/ski/ for grooming information. Follow the club on Facebook at Lake Country Nordic Ski Club.
Maps for area cross country ski trails are online at www.co.cass.mn.us/maps/ map_trails.html.
• Paul Bunyan
• Heartland
• Mi-Gi-Zi
• Itasca Wilderness
Area Trail Map
Heartland Trail Distances in Miles
See larger map on page 23
Paul Bunyan Trail Distances in Miles
Cut Lake Skiing/Mountain Bike Trail
Goose Lake Ski Trail Map
Spider Lake Trail/Foot Hills State Forest Map
PARKING:
From Pine River: go 12 miles west on Co. Rd. 2, then south 1.5 miles on Spider McKinley Forest Road.
From Leader: go north on Co. Rd. 64 for 11.8 miles. Turn east on 36th St. SW and go 1.3 miles to the parking area.
TRAILS:
8.6 miles cross-country skiing
Hiking
Mountain Biking
40 miles Class I ATV
40 miles Class II ATV
40 miles off-highway motorcycling
11 miles off-road vehicles
Recreation
Boat Ramp Nearby
Dispersed Camping
Canoe/Kayak
Picnic Shelters
Swimming
36th St. SW
Spider McKinley Forest Road
Foot Hills State Forest at a Glance
PINE RIVER 10 MILES
Area Snowmobile Trails Map
Nisswa
Crosby
Emily
Longville
Hackensack
Walker
Laporte
Farris
Akeley
Nevis Dorset Park Rapids Hubbard
Menahga
Sebeka
Brainerd
Backus
Pine River
Jenkins
Pequot Lakes
Staples Verndale
Motley
Pine River parks are pristine family places
The city of Pine River worked over the past several years to add onto, update and enhance its downtown park space.
On either side of the sparkling jewel of the city and the city’s namesake — the Pine River — two park spaces offer ample room for everyone.
First there’s the upper level of the Dam Park, featuring a large gazebo with picnic tables, up-to-date bathrooms and food preparation spaces for rent. This park also features a well-maintained sandy beach, a concrete seating area, swimming dock, fishing pier and the stunning Pine River Rock Riffle Dam.
Adjoining the park is a children’s playground, featuring new equipment for all ages.
On the lower end of the river is a walkway with prime space for fishing. Finally, on the opposite shore is the new Lions Park, featuring the city’s historic Lions pavilion, bathrooms and parking space, as well as access to the river for fishing.
The park is popular for summer yoga gatherings, birthday parties and Summerfest activities in addition to regular swimming and park use, making this park space a treasure for area families.
The city also has additional facilities at the Pine River-Backus School campus, Forbes Park and campgrounds on the other side of the river, at the ballfields northeast of town and at the ice skating rink southwest of the stoplights, just past the post office.
There is no shortage of family space in Pine River.
Pine River Walking Tour
Sponsored & Organized by Heritage Group North, Inc., Pine River, MN
www.heritagegroupnorth.org
Pine River began in 1873 when George Barclay opened a trading post on the Leech Lake Trail.
In 1894 a logging railroad built north through “Barclay’s Ranch” attracted many settlers and led to the formation of a city. Pine River’s original business district, near the railroad depot, has a rich and colorful history. The walking tour highlights some of the town’s more prominent downtown structures, several of which no longer exist. Few of the buildings were designed by architects or built in a particular architectural style, yet people took pride in their buildings.
1. PINE RIVER RAILWAY DEPOT
c. 1895 • 102 Barclay Ave. W.
It is appropriate that the walking tour begins and ends here. The depot, erected in 1895, is the oldest building in Pine River and the only one in town deemed eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. A frame structure of simple utilitarian design, the depot underwent several changes through 1913 when a canopy and women’s waiting room were added and the station platform was paved with bricks. The depot was abandoned in 1985, and in 2009 it was relocated to a new site just across the track (the Paul Bunyan Trail) from where it stood for 114 years. The railroad played an active role in attracting immigrants and encouraging settlement.
2. COZY THEATER/ NEWSPAPER OFFICE
c. 1915 • 109 First St. S.
The Cozy Theater, the town’s f irst theater, occupied the small, “cozy,” upper floor of this concrete-block building before the era of talkies (movies with soundtracks). In its day the Cozy hosted theatrical performances and recitals and showed silent films. Privies flanked the alley-side of the building. An early town newspaper, the Pine River Sentinel-Blaze, had off ices and a print shop in the basement. From 1917-20, classes for third and fourth grades of the Pine River School were taught here. The building’s more recent use as a Masonic Lodge hall and Eastern Star chapter ended in 2009.
3. FIRST STATE BANK BUILDING
c. 1903 • 200 Barclay Ave.
The brick building was erected in 1903 for the First State Bank of Pine River, the town’s first bank. The bank later got a national char ter before hard times led to its merger with a competing bank in 1924. For more than 100 years this building also housed a series of drugstores, early on in the same room as the bank! The building also hosted a basement barber shop and Pine River’s post office. The large pillars originally at the front of the building now form the entry of the old Pine Ridge Cemetery south of town.
4. HILL HARDWARE BUILDING
c. 1916 • 204 Barclay Ave.
Hill’s Hardware began in a nearby lumber yard in the early 1900s, and later moved to a wood frame structure on Barclay Avenue. When that building burned in 1916, it was replaced by a modern masonry building on the adjacent lot. The hardware store operated until 1971, and in 1973 the building became part of Silbaugh’s Department Store. The building now houses 218 Fitness.
Pine River Walking Tour
5. MEMORIAL HALL/ MARLOW THEATER
c. 1920 • 240 Barclay Ave.
Memorial Hall was built in 1919-20 to provide rooms for meetings, stage shows and dancing, and showing silent movies (accompanied by a lively piano). The site was previously a boat shop and lumberyard. The hall closed in 1931 shortly after showing its first talking film and reopened in 1934 as the Marlow Theater. Over the years, the large theater building also housed a funeral parlor, beauty shop, pool hall, realty office, Laundromat and the offices of the Pine River Journal. The owners occupied an apartment behind the stage. The Marlow Theater was gutted by fire in 1980.
6. UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
c. 1902 • 348 Barclay Ave.
The Methodist Church was the first church organized in Pine River. Lots were purchased from city founder Ammarilla Barclay in 1902 for $2, and a missionary grant was secured for church construction. Building the wood-frame church took several years and was hampered when lightning twice struck the bell tower, the second time cracking the bell. The church was dedicated in 1907. The belfry was refurbished in 2009. The beautiful stained glass windows are best viewed from the church interior.
7. PINE RIVER DAM
c. 1910 • River Street
Pine River’s homes and businesses were originally lit by oil or gas lamps. In 1910, a dam and hydroelectric plant were built at the head of Barclay Avenue (replacing a bridge that formerly stood there). It was the first major electrical generating plant in rural Cass and Crow Wing counties, and by 1920 it provided electrical power to other outlying communities including Backus, Jenkins, Pequot and Nisswa. Use of the plant was discontinued in 1946 and the equipment and powerhouse were later removed. The swimming facilities above the dam were developed as a W.P.A. project in 1938.
8. PINE RIVER PUBLIC SCHOOL/ PINE RIVER CLINIC
c. 1903 • 403 Barclay Ave.
In 1903, a two-story, wood-frame school house was built on this corner lot to accommodate Pine River’s high school and elementary classes. Although enlarged in 1905, the school was just too small for the rapidly growing population. The school was razed in the late 1920s after a new and much larger school was built two blocks to the northwest. In 1950, a one-story stucco medical clinic opened on the site of the old school. After years of service, the clinic was torn down in the early 2000s.
9. LINDBERG BUILDING
c. 1911 • 303 Barclay Ave.
This two-story concrete-block building was built in the 1910s as a general merchandising store. Such new-fangled department stores were typically housed in large buildings and sold almost every product imaginable from clothes and furniture to groceries and toys. Later owners ended the handling of food products to concentrate on the sale of soft goods. Over the years businesses here were affiliated with Skogmos and V-Stores. Until recently, the building was home to NAPA automotive. Apartments occupy the second floor.
10. BERT MICHENER’S AUTO GARAGE/HOUSTON MOTOR
c. 1920 • 245 Barclay Ave.
Michener’s garage was built here in 1920. The “grand opening” featured a Japanese operetta presented by the Pine River School. After the garage burned in 1950, it was replaced by a Ford-Mercury dealership and garage run by the Houston Motor Co. In the late 1950s, Houston’s also sold diving gear and filled SCUBA tanks. Houston’s relocated south of town after 1973. The remodeled building is now occupied by small businesses and the Pine River-Backus Family Center.
11. FARMERS STATE BANK BUILDING
c. 1917 • 203 Barclay Ave.
When this two-story brick building was built in 1917, the street-level corner of the building was occupied by the Farmers State Bank. Later, the Pine River State Bank conducted business in the same space until 1974. Among original occupants was a pharmacy on Barclay Avenue, and a furniture store and funeral parlor on the First Street side. The second floor once contained professional offices and apartments
The Gardiner family has operated businesses at this location since 1935. The original back addition to the building was destroyed by fire in 1973.
12. PINE RIVER ARMY RESERVE ARMORY
c. 1921 • 200 Front St. N.
In 1921 Pine River was home to one of the first Army Reserve armories in Minnesota, and it was the smallest town in the United States to have an armory. The armory was constructed of concrete blocks made onsite by the resourceful and legendary local builder “Pop” Evans. Almost 2,000 people attended the dedication in May 1922 that featured an address by Minnesota Gov. J.A.O. Preus. The state ceded the armory to the city of Pine River in 1939. The upper floor of the armory contained a stage and a basketball court flanked by bleachers. During the 1950s the basement level held sixthgrade classrooms and the school lunchroom. The city office and fire hall occupied the nor th end of the building. The armory was razed in 1974.
13. HORSE-DRAWN FIRE ENGINE
c. 1919 • 102 Barclay Ave. W.
This vehicle, a horse-drawn Waterous #6 Class B gasoline fire engine with a Waukesha motor, was built for the city of Pine River in 1919. Until 1940 this was the sole engine for the village. It remained in use as an auxiliary engine until its retirement in the mid-1950s. The display shelter was erected by Heritage Group North in 2010.
14.
PINE RIVER LEGION CLUB
c. 1947 • 400 Front St. S.
The Fraser-Nelson Post 613 of the American Legion was organized on March 11, 1947, at the Marlow Club rooms in the Marlow Theater. Col. Robert Miller of the 147th Field Artillery of Brainerd, a prisoner of war in the Bataan, urged the organization of a Legion Post in Pine River. An American Legion Post had been organized in the early 1920s but had been disbanded before World War II. No information about this group was located.
15. BILL DAY’S WELDING
SHOP
c. 1947 • 206 Front St. S.
Bill Day’s Welding Shop occupied this site for many years. The original blacksmith shop that once stood on Barclay Avenue to the north of the Livery and later the Spurrier Hotel was built by Dave Jones in 1902. Succeeding owners were Al Seper, Bill Rohr, Christensen, W.C. (Bill) Day. The original building was later moved to this site and was torn down in 1947.
16. PINE RIVER LOCKER PLANT
c. 1928 • 200 Front St. S.
The Pine River Locker Plant and Kouba’s Souvenir shop sat on this location. The Locker Plant was built in 1928 by H.I. Davies as the Pine River Seed House. Originally it had been the site of the old Wideman Brothers store. The building was sold in the early 1930s but continued to serve as a feed store under Frank Marsh and Homer Fraser until 1945 when Arvid Lundin bought the building. Siefert and Gartner bought out Lundin in 1948 and established the locker business.
17. BARCLAY HOTEL “WHITE ELEPHANT”
c. 1894 • 112 Front St. S.
The original Barclay Hotel was the hub of activity for passengers arriving by train. The Hotel Barclay or Barclay House, also known as the “White Elephant,” was built for George Barclay in 1894. It burned in December 1915 in a fire that threatened the whole town.
18. FIRST “FILLING STATION”
c. 1920 • 100 Front St. S.
Pine River’s first “filling station” was built by Vic Sauer. Though gasoline had been available at the village garages, Sauer’s Pyramid station was the original “filling station” in town. The Pine River Oil Company Phillips 66 occupied the same corner for many years. Later a new building was constructed and occupied by Tom Thumb.
Pine River Walking Tour
A project funded by the Minnesota Historical and Cultural Grants Program.
PINE RIVER(Norway Brook)
Pine River Walking Tour
19. SPURRIER HOTEL
c. 1917 • 103 Barclay Ave.
The Spurrier Hotel, later called the Lake Region Hotel, was built in 1917 and stood until 1964 when it was torn down to make way for the eventual Highway 371 widening.
20. DURKEE MANUFACTURING CO.
c. 1940 • 173 Barclay Ave. W. Durkee’s Manufacturing Plant, built in 1940, as well as a feed store established in 1916 occupied this location. “Working at Durkees” was a solid career for many local men from 1940 to 1985, with about 150 employees benefiting from the town’s largest local industry. The plant manufactured Wooden Spools for telephone cable, etc.
21. WEFELMEYER PICKLE FACTORY
c. 1918 • 201 Park Ave. W.
The Wefelmeyer Pickle Factory once sat on this site. By 1925, which saw “the biggest cucumber crop ever” harvested in the region, Wefelmeyer and Thiessen had main offices in Pine River and “salting stations” in many surrounding communities. Under the name “Queen Brand,” pickles were sold in railcar load lots to local packers throughout the United States.
22. OUR LADY OF LOURDES
c. 1910 • 205 Park Ave.
This was the original location of Our Lady Of Lourdes Catholic Church, established in 1910. The parish moved into its current location across the alley in 1958.
23. PINE RIVER SCHOOL
c. 1913 • 309 Jefferson Ave.
The Pine River School, both elementary and the high school, were housed in a building on this location beginning in 1913. The combination elementary/high school building was built in 1920. This location was the “home of the Pine River Tigers” until 1961 when the new high school was built in its current location.
24.
FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH
c.1907 • 300 Norway Ave.
This building was originally the Pine River Lutheran Church. When the Lutheran congregation built its new church and moved to its location at 309 Second St. N., this building was converted for apartment usage.
25.
TABERNACLE CHURCH
c. 1954 • 304 Norway Ave.
The original Tabernacle Church was housed in a small log-sided building. The history of the Riverview Tabernacle goes back to about 1935 when interested Pine River residents met at the Mae Davis home for fellowship and prayer.
26.
COMMUNITY OIL
c. 1936 • 400 Barclay Ave.
Moulster’s Service Station, which later became Community Oil, was established here in 1936. This is the original building.
27. DAMSITE BAIT AND TACKLE
c. 1914 • 417 Barclay Ave.
The Damsite Bait and Tackle shop sat on this location, established in 1914. The A&W Root Beer Stand, which originally sat on Highway 371 next to the Lake Region (Spurrier) Hotel, was moved to this location in 1963 when the Highway 371 widening project began. Stand quietly here a minute and you can almost hear the sound of the 1960s — the Beatles, the muscle car engines and the car-hop orders of “Two root beers and an order of fries!”
28. PINE RIVER CREAMERY COMPANY
c. 1913 • 409 Norway Ave.
The Pine River Creamery, later Land O’Lakes Creamery, was established in 1913. The Pine River Feed Store sat on the opposite side of this corner. Bringing milk to the creamery and grain to be weighed at the feed store were daily/weekly activities for the local farmers.
29. CITY PARK RECREATIONAL FACILITY
c. 1938 • 304 Fifth St. Forbes Park was established here in 1916, named for Eugene Forbes. The log building was a WPA project completed in 1938. The cornerstone tells the details of this project, a great example of Craftsman Style building, popular at that time.
Food and beverage options
Following is a listing of Pine River food and beverage establishments:
1. Bites Pub & Grub 218-587-2564
2. The Barclay Cafe 218-587-2588
3. Dairy Queen 218-587-4762
4. Holiday Station 218-587-2821
5. Lifehouse Coffee 218-587-3332
6. Hugo’s Family Marketplace 218-587-2488
7. Pine River Bakery 218-587-1121
8. Pine River American Legion 218-587-9151
9. Station 371 218-587-4700 10. Barstock Liquors 218-587-3166 11. Community Bowl & Pizzeria 218-587-3100 12. GuidePoint Pharmacy Vintage Soda Fountain 218-587-2500 13. Damsite Supper Club 218-587-1030
Dining options run the gamut in Pine River
satisfy any craving
Whether you want a quick bite to eat or a leisurely sitdown meal, a good cup of coffee or an ice cream dessert, you can satisfy any craving in Pine River.
Start your day with fresh bread, doughnuts, cookies and more at the town’s bakery on Barclay Avenue. If you want a traditional, home-cooked breakfast, try the cafe, also on Barclay Avenue, or the restaurant on the southern edge of town or the one by the dam.
If you’re out for a good burger, try the already mentioned restaurants as well as the American Legion. Are you craving pizza? Try any restaurant, as well as the Community Bowling Alley!
Indulge your sweet tooth or pick up some homemade soup and sandwiches at the bakery, or if it’s ice cream you want, Pine River is home to Dairy Queen. Try a vintage soda at GuidePoint Pharmacy on the corner building at Barclay Avenue downtown.
Pine River has a coffee shop if you’re looking for a hot cup or a fancy coffee. The city also is home to convenience stores and a grocery store with a deli department for snacks and meal planning, as well as a liquor store if you’re looking for adult beverages.
There’s no need to venture from Pine River when you’re hungry. We have options from snacks to tide you over to major meals to fill you up.
Spend time shopping in Pine River
The area’s premier provider of services for persons with disabilities
We know you’ll find what you’re looking for when shopping in Pine River, including some surprises when you visit our retailers.
Find gifts or any needed items at our hardware store, auto parts stores or the Tractor Supply store. Venture out to buy flowers or a homemade baked good for your hosts if you’re staying with or visiting friends or relatives.
Take a look around and you’ll come across new and secondhand furniture in Pine River, as well as special services such as glass and pipe cutting and everything from soup to nuts!
Find great bargains at thrift and antique shops in the city. Pine River offers specialty shops such as an alpaca yarn and knitting goods shop.
If you’re looking for a car or other vehicle — or parts, full service, body work or tire replacement for a vehicle — you can shop for those businesses right here in Pine River!
You can also renew your license plates or purchase ATV or boat licenses at an official Department of Motor Vehicles business downtown.
Spend time shopping in Pine River. You’ll be certain to find something for everyone, as well as yourself.
Come to Pine River, no matter what the season
Pine River offers a wide array of services that both residents and travelers require: from health and well-being facilities such as a medical clinic, pharmacies, ambulance service, optometrist, physical therapists, dermatologists, physical therapists, dentists, fitness centers, senior citizen care and adult day facilities to amenities including a post office, public school, churches of all denominations, banks, barbers and hairstylists, an airport, car repair centers, real estate agents, restaurants, a mom-and-pop bakery, coffee shop, funeral directors, a feed store and laundromat. Contractors, plumbers, builders, excavators, tree and lawn services and electricians are abundant as well as a carpet store, a hardware
store and manufacturing facilities.
As a bonus, you’ll discover that most — if not all — of these services are available just about every day of the year. Pine River is truly a self-contained community that welcomes
customers new and old and is ready to service any need you have. Please check out all the Pine River Chamber member businesses listed in this guide. You’ll see what we mean!
Be sure to take advantage of the Lakes Area for all of your summer activities, from golfing, fishing, and boating to bluegrass and other music festivals.
Fun isn’t limited to the summer months! Pine River boasts a bowling alley to entertain the whole family. Pine River’s American Legion hosts trivia and bingo while the Pine River Library hosts a multitude of free events for everyone.
We’re proud to have a community that is able to offer reliable services that you can depend on. Pine River is ready to serve you, no matter what the season.
Resorts, Motels, Campgrounds & Fairways
RESORTS
Look for this symbol with its corresponding number to find location on the map
1. Heath’s Resort, Whitefish Lake Ken & Erica Meitz...............................................................218-587-2286
2. Kilworry Resort, Whitefish Lake Coughlin Family
3. Black Pine Beach Resort, Whitefish Chain Jeff and Jackie Novitsky
MOTELS
218-543-4587
877-575-1455 • 218-543-4714
4. Towering Pines Resort, Whitefish Chain Jodi & Roger Nies
800-950-0267 • 218-543-4738
5. Sunset Pines MN, Pine Mountain Lake Mike & Loellen Grzeskowiak 218-947-4099
6. Mountain View Resort, Pine Mountain Lake Jack & Renita Tesch ...........................................................218-947-3233
7. Sandy Pines Resort, Big Portage Lake Jim and Paula Woischke .....................................................218-821-3321
8. Tuck-A-Way Resort & Campground, Lake Hattie
Todd Malecha 218-587-4725
9. Pleasant Pines Resort, Pleasant Lake Milo Tritz 320-760-1120
10. Cousins Cabins, Horseshoe Lake Lynn Edlefson 608-320-3363
11. Hidden Haven Resort, Horseshoe Lake Andrew Ronneberg 218-820-6972
12. Whitefish Lodge and Suites, Manhattan Beach Lodge Crosslake 218-692-2246
Look for this symbol with its corresponding number to find location on the map
1. Cedarwood Motel now monthly rentals only 218-587-2208
2. Pine River Inn 218-587-4499 • 800-450-4499
3. AmericInn by Wyndham 218-568-8400 • 888-312-2398
CAMPGROUNDS
Look for this symbol with its corresponding number to find location on the map
1. 3 Arrows RV & Camp, Cory Schrupp 218-587-4112
2. Highview Campground & RV Park, Marty & Julia Armstrong ................................. www.highviewcampground.com • 218-543-4526
3. Sunset Pines MN, Mike & Loellen Grzeskowiak..............218-947-4099
4. Mountain View Resort, Jack & Renita Tesch 218-947-3233
5. Sandy Pines Resort, Jim and Paula Woischke 218-821-3321
4. The Pines at Grand View Lodge 218-963-8755 • 866-801-2951
5. The Preserve at Grand View Lodge 218-568-4944 • 866-801-2951
6. The Garden Course at Grand View Lodge 218-963-8745 • 866-801-2951
7. Crosswoods Golf Course 218-692-4653
8. Emily
9.
No matter what event or circumstance brings you to Pine River, you’ll find a comfortable place to stay that will satisfy your preference. Book a stay at one of our area hotels and motels or choose to stay at one of our famous lakes area resorts.
We have resorts and campgrounds that cater to RVs, and we have many motel, resort and camping options within easy driving distance.
So when you come to enjoy all Pine River has to offer — from our recreational trails and tall pines to our retail and dining options to our exceptional events — you’ll enjoy pleasant overnight accommodations to suit any need. Lodging
Pine River-Backus Schools are dedicated to students
Welcome to Tiger country!
Located in the beautiful lakes country of north central Minnesota and proudly serving families in Pine River, Backus, Chickamaw Beach and surrounding communities, the Pine River-Backus School District has a commitment to growing learners that our region can be proud of.
From early childhood to high school, PR-B is dedicated to nurturing students academically, socially and emotionally to prepare them for the future.
Pine River-Backus Schools prioritize innovative teaching methods and personalized learning. With 900 enrolled students, small class sizes and a broad curriculum, students receive an education that fosters confidence and achievement.
This success is driven by PR-B’s dedicated staff, who go above and beyond to inspire and support every student.
Beyond academics, PR-B provides diverse extracurricular activities, including athletics, arts and Community Education, fostering student growth and life skills.
Community and parent support shines through events like home coming games, seasonal concerts and productions, and volunteer involvement, creating a sense of pride and connection that extends beyond the school grounds.
To learn more about Pine River-Backus Schools, visit prbschools.org or find us on Facebook.
Go Tigers!
Restored railway depot is part of Pine River’s history
Pine River area history has been preserved with the historic Pine River Railway Depot located near the Chamber Information Center and along the Paul Bunyan State Trail.
Today, the former rail bed is the Paul Bunyan State Trail, which runs from Brainerd to Bemidji and right through the heart of Pine River.
Managed by the nonprofit Heritage Group North, the depot is the only property in Pine River to ever be listed on the U.S. Department of the Interior’s National Register of Historic Places. A plaque proclaiming this achievement hangs on the exterior of the depot.
With the Depot built in 1895, the railroad opened much of north central Minnesota to logging, provided access to the area and accounted for the development of many communities.
The original depot building underwent various additions and alterations between 1895-1913.
Since 1913, it remained essentially unchanged, except for the removal of the canopy over the open-air waiting area that extended off the building’s south end.
In 2009, a $362,000 restoration project completely restored its 1913 Northern Pacific Railroad appearance, including moving the building to the other side of the Paul Bunyan Trail, turning it 180 degrees and reconstructing the canopy.
In 2023, Heritage Group North contracted Northern Bedrock to scrape and repaint the depot.
Heritage Group North’s mission statement is: Here to preserve, protect and share Pine River area history for generations to come.
The depot is open on Friday afternoons May-September (or by appointment) where you can see displays, photos and local history.
Pine River’s history book, “Logsleds to Snowmobiles,” is now available for sale and a second edition is being worked on. Find more information about Heritage Group North at www.heritagegroupnorth. org, on Facebook or email heritagegroupnorth@gmail.com.
Pine River business growth continues
The sudden boom marking a resurgence of businesses throughout Pine River in 2023 continued through 2024 and into 2025.
The city’s longtime greenhouse and nursery, Sherwood Florist, found a new home in 2024, opening for the summer just south of the Pine River Chamber Information Center.
The former greenhouse property did not remain on the market long, and the
new owner has teased development of a restaurant, bar and entertainment center that would be open in the evenings.
The owner also announced the coming of a Subway franchise at 209 Barclay Ave. between the award-winning Pine River Bakery and the locally famous Gardiner Hardware.
After construction delays, the location is expected to open its doors in 2025. In preparation, the front of the building received a
makeover, removing wooden siding covering three upstairs windows once used as a boarding house.
Just outside of town, Bites Grill and Bar changed its name to Bites Pub & Grub after Daryn and Sierra Steinert bought it from Roger and Wendy Hoplin. The business has expanded some meals, adding breakfasts and new menu items on top of old favorites.
Pine River’s growth is not limited to restaurants. On the corner of Barclay Avenue and Second Street North at 303 Barclay is the new Family Fashion Thrift, a place for high quality clothing at a low, flat rate price.
Growth continues in Pine River with room for more, proving that the city is alive and well, with plenty of potential.
Four fish house manufacturers converge in Pine River
Manufacturing jobs abound at local companies
Pine River is a central hub for many anglers going north to Walker, Bemidji or other lakes, heading east to the Whitefish Chain or south to Gull Lake, Round Lake and the other Brainerd lakes.
It’s only right that Pine River has become a treasure trove of permanent ice shelters for winter anglers.
Ice Castle became the first Pine River area manufacturer in 2014, opening a manufacturing plant just south of the city limits on Highway 371, producing high-end steel frame fish houses with furniture and finished interiors.
In 2019, Blackline Conversions opened on the north end of town building lighter shacks with extruded aluminum frames with premium, furnished interiors and all the creature comforts one could want.
In 2022, yet another manufacturer entered the fray with the arrival of Polar Fox Outdoors. This manufacturer had a different take on a familiar product. While the other manufacturers built and outfitted trailer models, Polar Fox specializes in ultra-light skid houses featuring patented composite wall panels that make them easy to move around the lake by hand or ATV.
Finally, just 10 miles north of Pine River, in Backus, a longtime trailer producer chose to build an ice-fishing specific model.
The Eveland family’s 50-year old business, Scamp, added to their catalog of egg-shaped travel trailers with ice fishing specific trailers. The trailer model is not shaped like the classic Scamp trailers, but is built with their special fiberglass shells.
Having these manufacturers means that Pine River residents have several home-built options if they want to consider high-end campers and fish houses. It also means there are many well-paying manufacturing positions among the four companies.
Before anyone knew it, Pine River became the place to find high quality ice fishing shelters.
COMMUNITY SERVICES
All Area Codes are 218 Unless Listed Pine River Chamber Members are listed at the beginning of the listing with a ∆
CHURCHES
∆ Emmanuel Lutheran Church 947-4182
∆ New Life Community Church 587-2109
∆ Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church 587-4203
∆ Riverview Church 587-2021
∆ United Methodist Church 587-4091
First Lutheran Church 587-2316
Pine River Baptist Church 587-2684
CLUBS/ORGANIZATIONS
∆ Ada Lake Association www.lakeada.org
∆ Arts Off 84 ............................. www.ar tsoff84.com
∆ Backus Lions Club facebook/backuslions
∆ Cass Co. Faith In Action 675-5435
∆ Cass County EDC 547-7262
∆ Central Lakes Rotary centrallakesrotary.com
∆ Heritage Group North 251-3475
∆ Pine Ridge Cemetery Association 320-309-3700
∆ Pine River American Legion 587-9151
∆ Pine River Area Foundation ........................... www. lakesbluegrassfestival.com
∆ Pine River Lions 587-2564
∆ Pine River Market Square 838-1943
∆ Support Within Reach 547-4892
∆ The Warehouse 587-5404
Pine River Area Talent facebook/PRAT Pine River Area Talent
Pine River Game & Fish Club ...................... 587-2637
Pine River Library Building Foundation/Friends of the Library 587-4639
∆ Brenny - Kline Funeral Home ................. 587-2067
GARBAGE PICKUP
∆ Waste Partners 587-8727
Grinning Bear Rolloff 587-4990
HEATING/AIR CONDITIONING
∆ North Country Plumbing & Heating 692-3000
∆ Plumbing Etc. 587-4965
Al’s A/C & Heating, LLC 821-2814
LāKō Heating and Air 587-1087
HOUSING
∆ Good Samaritan Riverside Senior Living Apartments 524-9657
∆ Pine River Group Home 587-4888
∆ Pine River Housing & Redevelopment Authority 587-4929
INSURANCE
∆ Cass Company Insurance 587-2374
∆ Hanneken Insurance 587-2722
∆ Pine River Insurance 587-4777
LANDSCAPING/YARD/GARDEN
∆ Backyard Reflections 220-2785
∆ Lakeview Tree Company 838-7798
∆ New Age Tree Service 507-498-3650
∆ North Central Property Services 821-1419
∆ Pine River Property Maintenance 820-9043
∆ Schrupp Excavating 587-4038
∆ Sunshine Gardens 947-3154
LAWYER
∆ Hendricks Law Firm 587-4060
LIBRARY
Pine River Public Library 587-4060
MEDICAL
∆ Essentia Health - St Joseph’s Hospital 829-2861
∆ Essentia Health-Pine River Clinic 587-4416
∆ Select Therapy 587-5022
Central Minnesota Dermatology 454-3376
Nor th Memorial Ambulance 911
NATURAL GAS/ENERGY
∆ Xcel Energy 800-895-4999
OPTICIAN
Associates In Eyecare 587-2020
PAVING CONTRACTOR
∆ Anderson Brothers Construction 829-1768
Community Resources
PHONE NUMBERS
Emergency 911 (Fire, Police, Medical)
Cass County Sheriff
Cass County Sexual Violence Resource Center
Crisis Line and Referral Service
Pine River City Hall
218-547-1424
800-708-2727
800-462-5525
218-587-2440
Jefferson Lines pick up and drop off at City Hall www.jeffersonlines.com
Pine River Police non-emergency
218-587-3333
Pine River Post Office, 330 Barclay Ave W 218-587-4793
Pine River Library
Essentia Health - Pine River Clinic
Road Report (Brainerd)
Road Report (Minnesota)
218-587-4639
218-587-4416
218-828-2460
800-542-0220
PINE RIVER PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Pine River Public Library is located just a block off Barclay Avenue at the corner of Park Avenue and Second Street. Our library was established in 1965 and is one of nine branches in the Kitchigami System. Patrons can use their library card at any of the branches: Pine River, Walker, Wadena, Brainerd, Bemidji, Blackduck, Cass Lake, Longville, Park Rapids, as well as the Mobile Library.
Your card also gives you access to the library 24 hours a day online. Just visit www.krls.org and click on “Search the Catalog.” There are online resources such as ELM, links to the state catalog at MN Link, and many more. Access eBooks, eAudios, music and movies through the Cloud Library and Hoopla services.
LIBRARY INFORMATION
Phone: 218-587-4639 • Address: 212 Park Ave • Email: pineriver@krls.org
HOURS
Monday: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. • Tuesday: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. • Wednesday: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Thursday: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. • Friday: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. • Saturday: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. The library is closed most federal holidays.
PINE RIVER AREA PARKS
Forbes Park (campground) May-October
Over the Pine River bridge, left on Highway 84 (two blocks). Where the old rustic CCC log building sits amidst beautiful pines.
7 electrical camping sites (first come first serve - no reservations taken), free firewood available, bathrooms with running water, picnic shelter and fire rings
Forbes Log Building available for rent for events.
Dam Park
Children’s playground equipment with a kids zipline, pavilion with indoor kitchen and bathrooms (completed 2024), expanded parking, swimming beach with 2 floating water rafts, fishing pier, canoe/ kayak access, along with spectacular views and seating area.
Lion’s Park
Lion’s Picnic Shelter on Fifth Street “ over the bridge” is available to rent for events. Area for outdoor events along the river, quiet area with views of the lower dam. Bathrooms with running water, parking lot.
Shamp’s Softball Field
County Road 1, east of town. 2 fields with ample parking area, concessions building, picnic tables, bleachers and dugouts.
Pine River Ice Skating Rink
Full size outdoor skating rink with a warming house.
TO RESERVE ANY OF THE PARK AREAS: Call Pine River City Hall at 218-587-2440
DNR
LICENSES
Visit DNR licenses agents in Pine River
Gardiner’s Hardware 203 Barclay * 218-587-2585
Holiday Stationstore #164
300 Front St * 218-587-2821
Pine River Dept. of Motor Vehicle Licenses 239 Barclay Ave * 218-587-2400
218-587-2093 • 4 mi. W. of Pine River on #2, 5 mi. S. on #26
Mildred Bible Chapel
218-587-2562 • 4 mi. N. of Pine River on Hwy. 371
New Life Community Church
218-587-2109 • 510 First St. N., Pine River
Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church 218-587-4203 • 203 Second St. N., Pine River
Pine River Baptist Church
218-587-2684 • 380 Park Ave W., Pine River
Pleasant Hill Community Church
218-568-5289 • Southwest of Pine River on CR 1
Riverview Church
218-587-2021 • 310 Norway Ave., Pine River
United Methodist Church 218-587-4091 • 348 Barclay Ave., Pine River
ADDITIONAL BUSINESS RESOURCES
Cass County Economic Development Corporation is a nonprofit that provides confidential assistance to new or expanding businesses in Cass County. Contact CCEDC Executive Director Mike Paulus: 218-547-7262 or email cass.edc@co.cass.mn.us.
Central Lakes College Small Business Development Center assists small business start-ups or expansions. The SBDC features business training seminars and a number of services available to small businesses. Contact SBDC Director Greg Bergman at 218-855-8145 or email gbergman@clcmn.edu.
The Pine River Area Economic Development Group meets monthly in Pine River to support cooperative business relationships and advocate for businesses in the community. Call 218-587-4000.
The city of Pine River has a revolving loan fund for new and existing businesses located in the city of Pine River. For more information, contact Pine River City Hall at 218-587-2440.
Region 5 Development Commission in Staples assists communities and organizations with economic development, including research and business plan creation. For general inquiries, email info@regionfive.org or call 218-894-3233.
PINE RIVER AIRPORT
Pine River is home to a regional airport located just east of the city. The airpor t offers a 3,000 foot by 75-foot paved runway with 44 hangers and 24-hour/seven-days-a-week fuel pumps.
Since 2016, the airport has also been home to Pine River Aeromotor where pilots can come to have repairs made on airplanes and helicopters by mechanic Ron Sieling.
