Cuyuna Lakes Visitor Guide 2023

CROSBY | IRONTON | DEERWOOD | CUYUNA | RIVERTON | TROMMALD | EMILY | BAY LAKE VISITOR GUIDE 2023 MINNESOTA

Trail Expansion and Trail Maps

Cuyuna Country State Recreational Area

Welcome to the Cuyuna Lakes

We invite you to join us in the Cuyuna Lakes — home to the cities of Bay Lake, Crosby, Cuyuna, Deerwood, Emily, Ironton, Riverton and Trommald. Our unique communities o er small town charm nestled in the heart of lake country. We are excited to welcome you as our guest.

What makes the Cuyuna Lakes so unique? Born from a once burgeoning ore and taconite mining operation, the Cuyuna Iron Range produced over a 100 million tons of high-manganese ore during WWI and WWII. The range was also home to the Scorpion Snowmobile company, which produced and sold its famous sleds in the Crosby area. When both industries stopped production in the 1980s, the area became unsure of what the future would bring. Enter the Cuyuna Country State Recreational Area. The abandoned mining pits were reclaimed by nature, forming miles of crystal-clear lakes. Perfect for kayaking, paddle boarding, swimming and fishing, these pristine bodies of water are something special, and became a favorite destination for the local crowd. Then, with the foresight of several area residents, the mountainous landscape that was created from mining was transformed into globally recognized mountain biking and hiking trail systems that are utilized year-round, making the Cuyuna Lakes a perfect destination for outdoor adventure.

As the recreational area has grown, so have our business communities. The Cuyuna Lakes has a vibrant entertainment scene, with several award-winning restaurants, co ee shops, a brewery, specialty gift shops and boutiques lining our main streets. There is truly something for everyone to enjoy in the Cuyuna Lakes.

New (and improved) in the Area

FOOD AND DRINK

The

Hudson

New to the Ironton area, The Hudson, located just two blocks off the Cuyuna Trail, is a new restaurant concept bringing a restful refueling moment to outdoor adventurers. They offer convenient takeaway quick bites along with linger-worthy sitdown meals. Whether you are looking for breakfast, comfort foods, soups, salads, sandwiches, The Hudson has you covered. With both indoor and outdoor dining spaces, they also offer custom craft cocktails and barista-created specialty coffee.

The Cuyuna Lakes area is full of opportunity for growth. The following is a sneak peak of new places visitors will want to explore.

that can host everything from business meetings to weddings. There is also a large patio that offers seasonal dining outside.

Iron Range Eatery

A culinary mainstay in the Cuyuna Lakes, Iron Range Eatery offers an American fusion styled menu, with everything from burgers and street tacos to fine dining options like braised short ribs and housemade pastas. Coupled with hand crafted cocktails and 12 craft beers on tap, it’s a can’t miss stop.

North Country Cafe

Located in downtown Crosby, North Country Cafe doubled their space in the last year, after purchasing and renovating the business next door, opening more space for groups large and small to enjoy a delicious meal. They offer breakfast (all day) and lunch options.

Taconite Canteen

The Taconite Canteen & Event Center opened this past fall in Ironton. Offering a varietal menu and full bar, they have ample dining space alongside a large event center

Every Thursday 6:30 PM GUARANTEED $250

Meat Raffles

Fridays & Tuesdays 5:30

Charitable Gambling

Premises: #00148-002

Trailside Tavern & Patio

Trailside Tavern & Patio opened in October of 2020 on Mainstreet Crosby in the former Crosby Bar building. It continues to grow with the addition of an adjacent, indoor pickleball court. With an extensive, scratch menu and full bar, 12 beers on draft, and a fun and attentive staff, Trailside Tavern is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Cuyuna Brewing

They have two goals at Cuyuna Brewing, located on Main Street Crosby, quality, and experience. Owners Nick and Laura Huisinga, along with their amazing staff, promise to pursue those goals, ensuring that every person walking through their door has the highest quality beer in their hand and has an authentic Cuyuna experience. Not only do they want their patrons to enjoy their beer, they want them to love and learn more about

Cuyuna. Offering a large variety of beer, a lively and inviting atmosphere that is family and dog friendly and a large patio area that is the perfect space to relax on a warm summer day or night. Cuyuna Brewing is truly a can’t miss experience in the Cuyuna Lakes.

ATTRACTIONS

Bike Trails

The 50-mile-long mountain bike trail system covers nearly 800 acres inside the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area (CCSRA) and has been ranked as a silver level ride center by the International Mountain Bicycling Association. With over 30 purpose-built routes to choose from, everyone from beginner to pro can enjoy exciting rides and overlooks. Check out the Yawkey Mine Lake, or for a great view, go west through the Miner’s Mountain Rally Center to see the Miner’s Mountain Overlook and the Huntington Mine Lake. The trails are enhanced by the deep-red soil, turquoise mine lakes, and white bark of the aspen and birch trees. Watch for bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, beavers and other wildlife.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Crosby Lofts

double kings and adjoining rooms, opening up to a family suite opportunity. Also featured in the new building, built-in desks in each room, more lighting options and full-sized mirrors for guests. The new building is opening in the early summer season and reservations are available now. For the best rates and availability, please visit crosbyloftsmn.com.

kayak, and paddle board. Offering unique stilt cabins, RV and tent sites, owners Vern and Teff Lewis have worked hard to preserve the natural setting, making for a true experience in nature with each stay. All cabins are equipped with a fire ring with a cooking grate, a park style charcoal grill, picnic table, mini-fridge and chairs to enjoy around the campfire. Firewood is also available at the campground. You can also bike the short distance to the access trail of the Cuyuna Recreational Trail system.

The Crosby Lofts, located at 30 W. Main Street Crosby, has quickly become a go-to place to stay in the Cuyuna Lakes. The current building has eight unique hotel rooms, with double queen options, along with rooms featuring a single queen-sized bed and twin XL bunk beds, making it the perfect space to stay during your biking adventure, family vacation or business trip. They also feature a large rooftop lounge that offers beautiful views of Serpent Lake, where you can enjoy drinks and dining from Rafferty’s Pizza, located below. Crosby Lofts is currently expanding their space to the building located next door at 102 W. Main, and will have another eight hotel rooms, which will offer single kings,

Red Rider Resort

Located on the far east side of the Cuyuna Recreation trails on Manuel Mine Lake, Red Rider Resort is situated on a 35-foot bluff above the water, offering amazing views of the lake year-round. Manuel Mine is stocked full of trout, with fishing available in a non-motorized boat or off the dock that is located on property. Manuel Mine is also a scenic space to swim,

Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area

Offers numerous camping and lodging options. Three seven-person yurts, insulated canvas tents with wood floors and wood stoves, are available along the west side of Yawkey Mine Lake. Reservations may be made at mndnr.gov/ reservations or 866-857-2757. A nonrefundable fee is charged for each advance reservation but there is no reservation fee to reserve a campsite the same day. A total of 29 shaded and open, grassy camping sites are available at the Portsmouth Campground located on the northwest shore of Portsmouth Mine Lake. There are 18 electric and 15 non-electric

sites available during the regular season. Four walk-in sites are a short distance of restrooms, showers, swimming beach and mountain bike trails. Reservations are required at dnr.state. mn.us/state_parks/self_service.html.

Cuyuna Lakes Stay

Located on Main Street Deerwood, only blocks away from the trailhead of the Cuyuna Lakes trail system, Cuyuna Lakes Stay opened in fall of 2022. Whether you’re here for a long stay or just a quick weekend getaway, Cuyuna Lakes Stay has everything you need to make your trip unforgettable. Their cozy and stylish rooms are fully equipped with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay. With their central location, you’ll be close to all the best attractions, dining and shopping the area has to offer.

quality service to keep your bikes in working order. Inspired by the Swedish word for bike, Cykel has become a must stop for bikers and outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. They just so happen to be located a block away from The Hudson as well, making it a perfect location for you to have all you need for your ride.

Victual and Rave Creamworks

You don’t often find a shop as diverse and special as this. Victual, located on Main Street in Crosby, offers a shopping experience like no other, with unique gifts, a varied and impressive cheese selection coupled with an expansive cured meat section that will make you a master of charcuterie. Also available are pastas, sauces,

RETAIL

Cykel

Located in Ironton just blocks from the Cuyuna mountain bike trails, Cykel bike shop offers a fun retail atmosphere, custom bike builds, bike rentals for hours of fun, and high-

SOO LINE DEPOT

Explore the rich history of the Cuyuna Range through pictures and artifacts. Located at 101 St. NE, Crosby MN. Open Memorial Day weekend thru Labor Day weekend Tuesday thru Saturday. 10 AM - 4PM

View the life sized replica of the space capsule that was launched from Portsmouth Open Pit Mine and which carried Dr. David Simons into space in 1957.

Learn about the worst mining disaster in Minnesota history. 41 lives were lost when water flooded the Milford Mine.

soups, pickled vegetables, marinades, jams, syrups, olive oil, vinegar, coffee, tea, drinking chocolates, bean-to-bar chocolates and even a wide assortment of snacks and beverages. But we’ve saved the best for last, located inside is Rave Creamworks, an ice cream experience like no other. Made on-site, Rave Creamworks is a full dairy recipe that just so happens to be lactose free, making it available for all to enjoy. With a rotating roster of unique flavors, it truly can’t be missed. Victual is also currently undergoing an expansion into the adjacent building, making their retail space 2 1/2 times larger for shoppers to enjoy.

Cuyuna Outfitters

A premier outdoor gear and apparel retail store in the heart of downtown Crosby, MN, opened Memorial weekend of 2022. Cuyuna Outfitters’ retail store provides high quality outdoor gear and apparel for both outdoor enthusiasts and more “indoorsy” types alike. They carry a variety of well-known gear names with a nod to up and coming brands and those who work hard to make sustainable and eco-conscious goods. They are proud to carry a number of Minnesota made products and many brands that are attached to a social effort or benefit outdoor programs and military veterans. Cuyuna Outfitters also offers daily rentals of kayaks, glass-bottomed kayaks, paddleboards and snowshoes.

Hanson’s Sports

Hanson’s Marine and Powersports business has been proudly serving the residents and guests of Bay Lake, Minnesota, for more than 70 years. Their family owned store is a one-stop shop for summer and winter fun in the Brainerd lakes area. They offer sales and service for Polaris snowmobiles, Evinrude outboard motors and ShoreMaster docks and lifts and are authorized dealers for Montego Bay pontoons and Triton Trailers. But they are more than just a powersports dealer. Services also included pontoon rentals on Bay Lake, parts and accessories, gas docks, winterization and storage services, groceries, off-sale liquor and live bait. Rely on Hanson’s to make your living and vacationing on Bay Lake enjoyable year-round.

INFRASTRUCTURE

Heartwood Senior Living

Cuyuna Regional Medical Center is building a state-of-the-art, multimillion-dollar nursing home on the Heartwood Senior Living Community campus in Crosby to continue providing high quality care and services

to meet the needs of residents of greater Minnesota. Ground will be broken for the 45,000-square-foot nursing home as an additional wing on the Heartwood campus across Highway 210 from CRMC’s main campus in May 2023, and construction is expected to take about one year. The main purpose of the project is to enhance the living experience of the residents and to create a more efficient work environment for staff. Designed by BKV Architecture of Minneapolis, the new nursing home will have more of a neighborhood feel where residents have privacy and dignity, yet short distances to meet and connect with other residents. There will be lounge areas, a therapy room, central dining room, touch down nursing stations, outdoor living spaces and views, and mainly private rooms. The wing will also have a centralized nursing station for better staff efficiency and training space for staff. There will be 54 licensed beds, 48 of which are private rooms and three double rooms. The Care Center’s current average daily census is 40 residents.

Super One

Miner’s Inc., the parent company of Super One Foods in Crosby, opened a brand-new facility in the Cuyuna Lakes area in spring of 2022. This expansive building, set just outside of Crosby on Highway 210, is also home to Super One Liquor and has a Cuyuna Regional Medical Center clinic and pharmacy on property. Offering a large selection storewide, including an expanded deli, fresh produce section and meats department, and a knowledgeable staff to help you find whatever you need, the Crosby Super One has it all.

Essentia Health Deerwood

Construction on Essentia Health’s Deerwood clinic is currently underway. The clinic will be 6,500-square-foot with an additional 700-square-foot of space that will serve as a drive-through pharmacy. It’s located at the intersection of Highways 210 and 6. Essentia broke ground in September 2022, with completion slated for spring of this year. The clinic will offer some specialty care like orthopedics and cardiology as well as lab and imaging services.

Wing Wellness Medical Spa was founded by Sheila Wing, Certified Family and Emergency Nurse Practitioner, with the pure passion and vision of helping people. We offer high quality services in a comfortable, safe environment.

Wing Wellness Medical Spa is here to help you look and feel your best so you can reach your true potential. We are located 6 miles outside Brainerd in a quiet, rural community.

About Our Waters

The best kept secret in Minnesota is Cuyuna Country. Our pristine lakes provide excellent fishing for a large variety of species, as well as unique angling opportunities for trout and trophy pike.

SERPENT LAKE

Serpent Lake is a beautiful body of clear, fresh water covering 1,116 acres and is approximately 65 feet deep at its deepest point. Around 9-plus miles of shoreline amid birch, pine, oak, and other towering trees. More than 250 homes and cabins hug its meandering shoreline. Located between the cities of Crosby (on its western end) and Deerwood (on the east), Serpent is home to walleye, northern pike, smallmouth and largemouth bass, crappies, and other fish which attract anglers year-round. At the lake’s largest public access point, Crosby Memorial Park, is a large, colorful serpent statue named Kahnah’bek (the Ojibwa name for Serpent). It measures 20 feet high and 25 feet long and weighs 2,500 pounds. There are rumors that the lake’s namesake is because the waters are inhabited by a mythical sea serpent, but a more likely explanation is the shape of the lake.

MINE LAKES

The mine lakes are famous for trout. But, if they are not cooperating, try fishing for northern pike. Submerged stands

August 11-12, 2023

March 2-3, 2024

of timber shelter trophy pike, some pushing 30 pounds. The sunken trees also provide cover for hungry small and largemouth bass. Spinner baits are a great choice because the water does not have a lot of weeds and the bait can be worked through the stands of trees and stumps. A panfish supper awaits if you stay near the underwater trees during low light. Vertically jig in depths under 30 feet around flooded timber and pull up quickly to keep the fish out of trouble.

NATURAL LAKES

Tired of fishing amidst jet skiers and power boats? Experience the solitude on our natural lakes where walleye, northern and largemouth bass are the main targets. Don’t be surprised if you stumble upon slab crappies or big bluegills. Venture to larger waters for that trophy muskie. Launch your boat at the many public access points. If you are looking for peace and quiet, bring a canoe or kayak and relax on one of the many small lakes with limited access. Grab a map, locate a back road, and find your own “honey hole” on one of our tranquil lakes.

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER

The nearby Mississippi River, with excellent populations of walleye and smallmouth bass, is navigable under normal conditions with a motorized boat, but some prefer to float it in a canoe or kayak. The stretch from Aitkin to Merrifield is both beautiful and rewarding.

Catfish populations are booming, and muskies are present here with trophycaliber fish available. Whether boating, floating or fly fishing, check with OarsN-Mine bait and tackle shop in Crosby for lake and river conditions and the local fishing secrets.

AREA ATTRACTIONS Arts & Culture

MUSIC ON MAIN PROJECT

Historic Main Street Crosby has seen a huge transformation in the last several years. Along with the reconstruction of Highway 210, the Cuyuna Lakes Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with The Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Board, was able to successfully complete the Music On Main project in late 2021. With a generous grant from IRRRB of $16,500 to the Cuyuna Lakes Chamber along with matching funds raised by the Chamber’s Downtown Committee, a total investment of $33,000 was used to purchase and install a state-of-the-art speaker system in Crosby’s main business district. Visitors to Main Street can enjoy music year-round that provides a lively soundtrack as they shop, eat, drink and enjoy all Crosby has to offer. It also provides seasonal fun, with carols played throughout the Christmas season, which adds to Crosby’s renowned hometown feel.

MUSIC IN THE PARK

Another great event hosted in the CrosbyIronton area, Music in the Park is hosted every second and fourth Thursday in the months of June, July and August in Crosby’s Memorial Park. A free community event made possible through a generous grant from the Five Wings Art Council and donations from area businesses through the Cuyuna Lakes Chamber, Music in the Park hosts local music artists as they perform a three-hour concert for everyone to attend.

Nestled on the shores of Serpent Lake, Crosby Memorial Park’s concert stage offers a perfect atmosphere for adults and families alike to bring along a chair and relax on a summer night. With local vendors in attendance each week, you can treat yourself to a delish food truck fair, a sweet treat or even a massage while in attendance.

SOO LINE MUSEUM

The Soo Line Depot was built in 1910. It was part of a 1908-1910 project to build a rail line from Superior, Wisconsin, to Thief River Falls, Minnesota, with a branch (Crosby) to the Cuyuna Iron Range. It is now the home of the Soo Line Depot Museum which is filled with artifacts, photos and documents telling the stories of everyday life and historical events on the Cuyuna Iron Range. The museum features information and pictures pertaining to

the Mining History in the Cuyuna Range, including the Milford Mine disaster, Minnesota’s largest mining disaster. There is also a life-sized replica of the capsule that Dr. David Simons rode to the stratosphere. There is also 100-year-old tools from logging and mining and photos of the miners and mines that were so plentiful in this region, and built what has now become the Cuyuna Lakes area. Named in “Ripley’s Believe It or Not” as the only depot in the world where the trains came in but never went past.

Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area boasts 25 miles of forested shoreline providing peaceful relaxation for those who desire a rustic experience. Embrace the sun dancing on quiet, crystal blue waters, the crackling warmth of a campfire and the haunting call of loons. Start the day by mountain biking over 30 miles of groomed trails. Spend a lazy afternoon paddling

in a canoe or kayak. Slip over the side in scuba gear and explore the remnants of an iron mine hundreds of feet below the still surface. Plan a day or a week to camp, bike, hike, and fish. Motorized off-road vehicles are not allowed in the park. Get a great overview of the area atop Miner’s Mountain, from Pennington Lake near Ironton, bike, hike or drive up the outlook trails’ winding

switchbacks to the highest point in the area. There you will have a beautiful vista of numerous lakes and forests. Thirtythree primitive campsites are available at the Portsmouth Campground off County Road 30 north of Ironton. Reservations are required. For the latest information and trail maps, call 218-772-3690 or visit 307 Third St., Ironton.

CUYUNA COUNTRY STATE RECREATION AREA

AREA ATTRACTIONS Outdoor Recreation

DIVE CUYUNA

Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area is home to some of the best diving in the Midwest. Located near Crosby and Ironton, the beautiful park features crystalclear water filled mines with submerged mine shafts, building foundations, vehicles, roadbeds, forests, shear walls, and depths of up to 530 feet. The mines have been stocked with trout, bass, and northern pike. Loons frequently swim by, and there is visibility ranging from 30 to 60 feet. The Minnesota School of Diving has created over 50 unique dive sites in the area that are appropriate for all levels of experience. Group fun dives are held in the area up to three times a week in the summer. Dive masters are also available to lead people on individual dives. While you’re down there, stop to visit Jason Vorhees, who happens to “haunt” the Louise Mine Lake for the last ten years thanks to Doug Klein, a local scuba diver who placed him there in 2013. Visit mndiving.com for details. Dive maps of the area are available at The Minnesota School of Diving in Brainerd. Call 218829-5953 or send a message to brdinfor@ mndiving.com.

KAYAK, CANOE, SNORKEL AND PADDLEBOARD

Whether it’s just a day away from the kids or a weekend family expedition, paddling excursions are always a great break. The lakes and rivers of the Cuyuna Range offer a wide variety for both the beginner and the experienced kayaker, canoeist and paddleboarder. The scenic Mississippi and Pine Rivers offer opportunities to paddle for just a few hours or a few days. The premier paddling experience is on the deep, turquoise blue lakes of Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area. A chain of mine lakes, starting at the Pennington access, provides hours of bliss in pristine, peaceful surroundings. Deer, bald eagles,

and osprey are often spotted. Loons may surface nearby. Beach areas provide a place to stretch or enjoy a picnic. Maps showing parking, boat, and carry-in access points, campsites and scenic views are available at trailheads and the Cuyuna Lakes Chamber office in Deerwood. Don’t have a paddle

board or kayak to enjoy one of the area lakes, stop by Cuyuna Outfitters in Crosby. They offer rentals on outdoor equipment for adventures of all sizes! They even offer a glass bottom kayak option, which offers a unique experience as you glide across the crystal clear mine lakes.

JACK’S 18 AT RUTTGER’S BAY LAKE RESORT

Jack’s 18 is one of the most scenic northern Minnesota golf courses in the area winding through forests of maple, oak, birch, aspen, and the majestic Norway pines. The par 72 rolls gently alongside the placid waters of natural lakes Goose and Bass. Quite simply a must-play Brainerd lakes area golf course. Located adjacent to Jack’s 18 is Alec’s 9, the original course at Ruttger’s. Holding the distinction of being the first resort course in Minnesota, this par 33 has undergone a redesign and is slated to re-open in the summer of 2023.

CUYUNA ROLLING HILLS

Located just outside of Deerwood on Hwy 210, this composite course carved out of the Northern Minnesota woods, requires an accurate driver, skill in handling the uneven uphill, downhill, and side hill lies, and a first class game to master the challenging putting surfaces here at Cuyuna. Offering resort quality golf without the resort prices, Cuyuna Rolling Hills offers an outstanding golfing experience with affordable greens and cart fees. They are celebrating their 100 year anniversary this year!

The Cuyuna Lakes is known for mountain biking and watersports, but not to be discounted in our area is the opportunities to play a round of golf on the premier courses that call us home.

Family Fun

CROSBY MEMORIAL PARK

Located in the center of Crosby on the shores of Serpent Lake, Crosby Memorial Park is a hub for community fun in the Cuyuna Lakes. Amenities include: Serpent Lake swimming beach, Crosby Memorial Playground, a full RV and tent campsite with hook-up and a public bathroom, picnic shelters and public grills, a full baseball field and a skatepark. The park is also host to the yearly Fourth of July celebration, which features live music, beer gardens, food trucks, kids entertainment and an area renowned fireworks display at dusk. Crosby Memorial Park also hosts the Cuyuna Lakes Chamber’s Music in the Park program and Ice Fishing Contest.

TRADITIONS MINI GOLF

Located in Deerwood, Traditions Mini Golf is an 18-hole, premier course, featuring a waterfall, fountain ponds, bridges and breathtaking landscaping. Holes average 40 feet in length, with many holes bordering water hazards, and music playing throughout the entire course. The course is open until after dark, so you can play under the lights and stars, making it a magical experience. They don’t want to brag, but they are known as one of the finest mini-golf courses in Minnesota.

DEERWOOD PARK/ SKONE PARK

The Deerwood Park, tucked nicely off main street Deerwood at 23726 Serpent Road East, is a community passion project meant to give kids in the area a safe and adventure-filled space to enjoy. Featuring new playground equipment, a picnic shelter, an expansive splash pad to play away the hot summer days, and

Family Fun

a brand-new bathroom facility. The splash pad has features such as non-slip concrete, mushroom shaped showers, and movable nozzles to allow users to spray others. Call 218-534-3252 or visit www. cityofdeerwood.com for more information.

OUTDOOR PICKLEBALL COURTS-IRONTON

The Cuyuna Pickleball Association had a vision to turn available property in Ironton into a space that would promote healthy living, exercise, social interaction, sportsmanship, and fun. They achieved that vision through community fundraising when they opened the new courts in summer of 2022. The Cuyuna Pickleball Association promotes the game of pickleball in the Cuyuna Lakes area for all ages and abilities and provides education, training, and special events to enhance recreational and competitive play in a dedicated and safe environment.

Cuyuna Lakes Offers Something Fun For Everyone!

ATTRACTIONS Family Fun

THE HALLETT CENTER

Located in Crosby, The Hallett Center is the hub of the community. Featuring a full fitness gym, a 75-foot swimming pool, a kiddie pool, a hockey rink that has skate rental and doubles as a pickleball court in the spring and summer season. They also offer group fitness courses, personal trainers and an indoor walking track. After your workout you can enjoy a sauna or shower in their private locker rooms. They also host many community events, including the Cuyuna Lakes Chamber’s Trunk or Treat event on Halloween.

Drive Along America’s Scenic Byway

SCENIC BYWAY

The Cuyuna Range is along The Great River Road National Scenic Byway that follows the course of the Mississippi River for 3,000 miles from northern Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. The Great River Road is a well-marked series of different roads and highways that roughly follow the winding course of the Mississippi River. Travelers will find white signs displaying a green pilot’s wheel logo. The symbol denotes which roads are part of the designated route that was selected for its natural, cultural, historical, recreational and scenic properties. All along the Great River Road, visitors find interesting things to see and do, including many river-related attractions and designated interpretive centers. The Cuyuna Range is no exception. Travelers can drive a short portion of the byway to experience some of the numerous amenities the area must offer. Learn more at www. mnmississippiriver.com.

Photo courtesy of Lowlight

Bike Trail Maps

NOTE: Hikingisallowedon the mountain bike trails, unlesspostedrestricted.

ABOUTCUYUNA COUNTRYSTATERECREATIONAREA

Abandoned by mining companiesmorethan30 yearsago, thisareanow boasts5,000acresof regenerated vegeta�on. Theareaoffersavarietyof recrea�onopportuni�esincluding biking(paved and mountainbiketrails),snowmobiling, fishing, boa�ng,hiking,wildlife-watching,scubadiving, camping andmore.

The59-milelongmountainbiketrail system covers nearly800 acres. Checkoutthe Yawkey MineLake,or fora greatview, go west throughtheMiner ’s MountainRallyCentertoseethe Miner ’s MountainOverlookandtheHun�ngtonMineLake.

Whenit rains,thesingletrack trailswillbeimmediately closed to allusers(foot orbike)un�ltrail condi�onsdry out orimprove.Please contact thepark office forup-to-date informa�onorvisit theCCSRA website.

Inaddi�on to 27 milesofnaturalshoreline,sixminelakes connect to create 267acresof con�nuouswater; perfectfor exploring by boat or canoe.Anglerscan cast aline fortrout (with atrout stamp),northern,bass,crappieorsunfish.

Diverswillfindclear waterwithsheer walls andflat terraces, characteris�cofthemine roads, railroadsandother remnantsofthemining industry

Winter Adventures

CUYUNA COUNTRY STATE RECREATION AREA

The area features more than 5,000 acres of forests and lakes. Opportunities abound for biking, hiking, ice fishing, snowshoeing, skiing, and snowmobiling. Access the area from several places in Crosby or Ironton. Check with the DNR for maps and the latest updates, 218-772-3690 or www.dnr. state.mn.us

Cuyuna Country has miles of fat tire biking, cross country skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling trails waiting for you.

Photo courtesy of Chuck Carlson

Deerwood Furniture is located in the heart of downtown Deerwood, MN. We have the largest selection of furniture and mattresses in the area. We guarantee quality products at competitive rates.

LARSON LAKES

Cross country skiing and snowshoeing for all skill levels, south of Deerwood. Travel a half mile south of the Highways 6 and 210 junctions, then east on County Road 10 for about 4 miles. Larson Lake parking area is on the east side of the road. Watch for signs. Larson Lakes has miles of trails through thick forests, a shelter, and holds snow later in the season than any other groomed course in the area. Ski trails are being groomed by the Brainerd Nordic Ski Club.

WOLF LAKE TRAILS

This trail system offers 9 km of beginner through expert trails with good signage for each. Skate ski through old-growth pine or classic ski along a ridge overlooking marshland or glacial kettles. Some trails are single tracked while others are double. Located south and west of Crosby/Ironton on Nelson Road, these trails are maintained and groomed as part of the Crow Wing County Park System.

SNOWMOBILING

Winter outdoor enthusiasts will find miles of snowmobile trails which connect to

miles of trails in northern Minnesota. In addition to the superb snowmobile trail system, some trails double as non-winter ATV trails. The Sno-Serpents Snowmobile Club takes great pride in making sure riders have the best-groomed trails in the state. Their volunteers groom 83 miles through beautiful, scenic Crow Wing County.

COMMUNITY

MILFORD MINE MEMORIAL PARK

Milford Mine Memorial Park features natural and man-made habitat that was transformed into a recreation area to be enjoyed by area residents and visitors. It is a humble attempt to preserve the memory of the 41 miners killed on Feb. 5, 1924, in underground tunnels after a nearby lake flooded the mine. Located in Crosby, west of Highway 6 and south of County Highway 30, between Island and Milford lakes. Visit http://crowwing.us/ DocumentCenter/View/6468 for more information

CUYUNA IRON RANGE HERITAGE NETWORK

Research the history of the Cuyuna Range or trace your family heritage with the assistance of knowledgeable staff. Historical books are available for purchase. Located in the basement of Crosby’s Unity Bank on Main Street. Call 218-545-1166 or visit www.cuyunahistory.org for more information.

MAN HIGH

The first small step of manned space exploration was launched from the Portsmouth Mine in Crosby on Aug. 19, 1957. Near the trail parking area overlooking the lake is signage depicting the adventure. Air Force Major Dr. David Simons rose above the earth 101,516 feet to become the first successful manned space flight in history. Dr. Simons provided the scientific research that would one day enable Neil Armstrong to step onto the surface of the moon and declare, “One small step for man; one giant leap for mankind.”

TRAIL-A-SLED AND SCORPION SNOWMOBILES

In 1959, the communities of Crosby and Ironton were in decline, still reeling after losing hundreds of iron ore mining jobs. Three men had come together, not to build

Garrison

a snowmobile powerhouse, but to simply survive. Incorporated in 1959, Trail-ASled, Inc. quickly grew to elite status among snowmobile manufacturers during the 1960s when rising public demand for these machines was creating an entirely new industry. Along the way, Trail-A-Sled,

Bay Lake Area Lions

Inc. and its subsequent firm Scorpion, Inc. built an industry-leading reputation for quality, dependability, and design, becoming the second largest domestic manufacturer of snowmobiles and a leading employer in central Minnesota’s beautiful Cuyuna Lakes region. By March of 1978 the firm was sold to long-time rival Arctic Enterprises. The CrosbyIronton facility was closed in March 1980. Nowadays, Scorpion snowmobiles continue to capture the imagination of vintage hobbyists throughout the world, and the annual Scorpion Homecoming gathering attracts hundreds of enthusiasts to Crosby, the birthplace of Trail-A-Sled, Inc. and Scorpion snowmobiles.

RUTTGER’S BAY LAKE RESORT

Joseph Ruttger began a century-plus tradition when he opened the resort on the shores of Bay Lake in 1898. The resort began humbly when Joseph and his wife Josephine opened their Bay Lake home to weary travelers and fishermen and shared a home-cooked meal. Enough people enjoyed Josephine’s food that word spread, and soon people were coming from far and wide to enjoy the beauty and relaxation of Minnesota’s Lake Country, a nice meal and Ruttger’s legendary hospitality. This foundation has grown to be what is now known as Ruttger’s Bay Lake Resort, which has become a mainstay for families to enjoy for over a century. Ruttger’s now includes a full lodge with indoor and outdoor pools, two renowned dining experiences, Jack’s 18, a championship 18-hole golf course, tennis and pickleball courts, retail shops and a full service salon, all on the gorgeous shores of Bay Lake. Visit www.ruttgers.com for booking and rates information.

Greens Golf Course

THE SANCTUARY

The Sanctuary is a 1950’s Lutheran Church in Crosby, MN that has been converted into a unique, eight-room boutique hotel. Owners Edgar and Stephanie Morales have worked hard to preserve the architectural interest of the building by exposing beautiful wood rafters, featuring large gothic windows, and incorporating beautiful, salvaged pieces of stained glass to capture the streaming sunlight. The hotel features a Gathering Room equipped with 30-foot ceilings, hardwood floors and a 42” fireplace, an above floor with a mezzanine, window seating, a kitchenette/ bar, and a large family-style dining table. Their eight en-suite rooms are individually designed and have large windows that allow beautiful natural light.

THE DEERSTAND

The Deerstand, located in Deerwood, is the perfect family space to dine. Featuring a wide variety of menu items, a full salad bar and from scratch specials known for miles around, you can’t go wrong! Built

in a refurbished church, they also have a lounge area downstairs and a full offsale selection. Situated on the corner of Hwy 210 and 6, The Deerstand is also a perfect stop on your way back from a long weekend up north!

Red Rider Resort encompasses 8 cabins, 10 tent sites, and 4 RV sites. Shared Bath House & Kitchen. 2 Cabins have 3/4 bath all located on beautiful Manuel Mine Pit Lake in Crosby, MN.

Come enjoy some quiet time fishing trout, kayaking, biking and paddle boarding.

We are directly connected to the Cuyuna Mountain Bike Trails.

COMMUNITY Relocation Information

The Cuyuna Country is home to nearly 6,000 year-round residents and thousands more seasonal residents and visitors. Nestled among more than 500 pristine lakes, outdoor activities abound in the Cuyuna and Brainerd lakes areas. The Twin Cities are only a two-hour drive. The Brainerd Regional Airport provides flights and offers free parking with no TSA lines.

Many residents live on the surrounding lakes. No traffic jams on the drive home — spend that time outdoors or with family and friends. Live where others come to vacation — it’s a bit like living at a resort that you never have to leave.

Crosby is home to Cuyuna Regional Medical Center, a growing campus offering full medical services, including a 25-bed critical access hospital, a stateof-the-art surgery center, physician clinic with numerous specialists, pharmacy, transitional and extended care. The hospital is a regional center for advanced general, orthopedic and gynecologic surgery.

The area is also home to Graphic Packaging, a leading provider of packaging solutions from cartons to machinery, for food, beverage, and other consumer products companies around the world. Magnum Machinery, which has offered world-class CNC machining since 1994, is another large employer.

The Crosby-Ironton Independent School District offers first-rate academics, cutting-edge technology, and outstanding extracurricular activities. Its faculty and staff are dedicated to preparing students for life-long success and work hard to cultivate schools where students embrace growth. A safe and caring environment, Crosby-Ironton offers a small setting where students can get the individual attention they deserve.

Cuyuna Regional Medical Center

There are several houses of worship in the area. Catholic, Lutheran, Baptist, Methodist as well as non-ecumenical churches are available. Grocery and liquor stores, fuel stations, antique and retail shops, as well as restaurants, coffee shops, breweries, cocktail lounges and gift shops offer everything families need.

My kids had made the decision to move to the Cuyuna Lakes Area for a change of pace from the big city. Seeing my children and grandchildren absolutely enjoying all the beautiful lakes and amenities the area has to offer I made the decision to also make the move and now we get to enjoy them as a family.

FREE PARK DAYS AT MINNESOTA STATE PARKS

SATURDAY, APRIL 22

SATURDAY, JUNE 10

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24

No permits needed at any of Minnesota’s 75 State Parks & Rec Areas.

And a fourth free park day that is yet to be scheduled - stay tuned!

www.dnr.state.mn.us

CUYUNA GEM & MINERAL SHOW

SATURDAY, MAY 13 9 AM TO 5 PM & SUNDAY, MAY 14 10 AM TO 4 PM

Crow Wing County Fairgrounds

Cuyunarockgemclub@gmail.com

www.cuyunarockclub.org

CUYUNA OFF ROAD TRIATHLON

SUNDAY, JUNE 11, 2023

Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area

www.Cuyunaoffroadtri.com

FIFTY LAKES DAY

SATURDAY, JUNE 24, 2023

Fifty Lakes, MN

CELEBRATE EMILY DAY

SATURDAY, JULY 15, 2023

7 am to 10:30 pm

CROW WING COUNTY FAIR

AUGUST 1-5, 2023

www.CrowWingCountyFair.com

DEERWOOD SUMMERFEST

AUGUST 11 & 12, 2023

www.deerwoodcommerce.org

C-I HERITAGE DAYS

AUGUST 17-20, 2023

CUYUNA CRUSHER

SUNDAY, AUGUST 27, 2023

Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area

www.cuyunalakes.com

OCTOBER 20-23, 2023 Ruttger’s Bay Lake Resort www.ruttgers.com

CUYUNA CHRISTMAS

NOVEMBER 30-DECEMBER 2, 2023 www.cuyunachristmas.com

CUYUNA LAKES PARTS CITY

201 1st Street SW • Crosby, MN 56441

Phone: (218) 546-5133

Website: www.Partscityauto.com

Facebook: CuyunaLakesPartsCity Crosby-Ironton Transportation, Inc 829 8th Street NE, Crosby, MN, (218) 545-6156

Since 1989, Crosby-Ironton Transportation has provided the Crosby-Ironton School District with safe, reliable student transportation.

T & J Services LLC is a locally family owned and operated business with seven years of experience in the industry. We focus on lawn care services, spring & fall lawn clean ups, aeration and overseeding. Call us today for more information.

We turn the shrubbiest of lawns into beautiful and green works of art. When it comes to lawn care, we are the best at what we do. Our full-service lawn care business can do it all.

Board

Jennifer Podsiadly

Madelyn

Julie

Dean Hansen | Hansen’s Sports

Robert Oswaldson | Grand Casino Mille Lacs

Tom Martin | R&J Broadcasting

Shane Holmin | Heartwood Senior Living

Laura Huisinga | Cuyuna Brewing

Sherri Leonard | Rice Lake Construction

Dan Goshey | Hubbard Radio

Trisha

Kelcie Quiel

COMMUNITY

3 Dogs Wash & Services

Advantage Seamless Gutters

Aitkin Area Chamber of Commerce

Aitkin Body Shop Inc

Aitkin Independent Age

AJ Metalworks, Inc

Allegra Marketing-Print-Mail

American Legion Post #443 - Ironton

American Legion Post #557 - Deerwood

American Peat Technology LLC

Anderson Brothers Construction

Angell’s Hideaway Resort

Antonsen Excavating

Atwater Chevrolet Buick GMC

AutoSmith Service Group

Barstock Liquors LLC

Bathtub Refinishing USA

Bay Lake Marine

Bernicks Vending & Beverages

Bill Wolfson Commercial Real Estate

Blue Collar Sound

Blue Collar Sound

Bolton & Menk

Brainerd Dispatch

Brainerd Lakes Area Economic Development

Bridge Tavern

C & L Distributing

Camp Holiday Resort

Care Vet Clinic

Christenson Agency

CinnieSmiths

City of Crosby

City of Cuyuna

City of Deerwood

City of Emily

City Of Ironton

City of Riverton

sherry.chisholm@jmksproperties.com

218-270-2663

218-927-2316

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218-927-3761

763-772-7065

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AP@andersonbrothers.com

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City of Trommald

Clearwater Forest Camp & Retreat Center

Coach’s

Coldwell Banker Crown Realtors

Common Goods - Crosby

Country Inn - Deerwood

Croft Pub & Grub

Crosby Ace Hardware

Crosby Ironton Courier

Crosby Lofts

Crosby SuperOne

Crosby-Ironton School District

Crow Wing County Snowmobile Trail Assn

Crow Wing Energized

Crow Wing Power

CTC

Cub Foods

Culligan Water Conditioning

Cuyuna Adventure Town USA

Cuyuna Brewing Company

Cuyuna Country Auto Center, Inc

Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area

Cuyuna Iron Range Heritage Network

Cuyuna Iron Range Riders ATV/OHV Club

Cuyuna Lakes Education Foundation

Cuyuna Lakes Mt Bike Crew

Cuyuna Lakes Parts City

Cuyuna Lakes Pickleball Association

Cuyuna Lakes Stay

Cuyuna Outfitters

Cuyuna Range Campground

Cuyuna Range Lions

Cuyuna Range Youth Center

Cuyuna Regional Medical Center

Cuyuna Rolling Hills Golf

Cuyuna Sauna

Cykel

218-546-6543

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2016retiredchief@gmail.com

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Deerstand

Deerwood Bank

Deerwood Civic & Commerce

Deerwood Furniture

Deerwood Rice & Grain Processing

Deerwood Technologies

Easy Street Video Productions, LLC

Edward Jones Seth

Emily Coop Telephone Company

Emily Meats Ol’ Fashioned Meat Market

Essentia Health - St. Joseph’s

Faster Solutions, Inc.

First Impression Printing

Fools Lake Campground & RV Park

Frank’s Resort

Frontier Cabinetry

Fun At The Lakes Resort

Fyle’s Satellites INC

Garrison Bay Lake Area Lions Charities

Garrison Commercial Club

Garrison Inn & Suites AHL Holdings

Ginger Up Boutique

Grand Casino Mille Lacs

Graphic Packaging International

Great River Eye Clinic

GuidePoint Pharmacy

Hallett Community Center Foundation

Hansen Sports

Hard Water Lounge

Heartwood Sr. Living

Holmvig Excavating

Howard Olson Custom Laser Engraving

Hubbard Radio Brainerd

Hudrlik Carpet

Hudson

Immanuel Lutheran Church

Iron Range Eatery

218-534-9253

218-534-3111

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612-810-5825

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320-693-4050

gingerupboutique@gmail.com

320-532-7777

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Member Directory

Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation Boa

Jamie Koop Insurance

Jim Christensen Lakeshore Marketing Group

K & M Signs

Kinship Partners

KK Advertising

Knieff’s Shore Acres

Koop Funeral Home

Koops Dock & Lift (KDL)

Lakes Area Habitat for Humanity

Lakes Area Music Festival

Lakes Area Unlimited Learning

Lakes Printing

Lawyers Title Service, LLC

Legacy Chorale of Greater Minnesota

Life Link III

M+P Fence LLC

Maddie’s Macarons

Magnum Machining

Maucieri’s Italian Bistro, Bar & Deli

Merchant Partner

Mid-Minnesota Federal Credit Union

Midwest Machinery Co

Mille Lacs Energy Cooperative

Minnesota Energy Resources

Minnesota Power

Minnesota Trails Magazine

Minnesota T’s Inc

Mission Beach Resort

MN School of Diving

Nelson Inc

NewsHopper

Nor-Son Construction

North Central Medical Supply & Equipment

North Country Cafe

Northern Air Plumbing & Heating LLC

Northern Lakes Youth Hockey Association

218-735-3000

218-546-8304

218-820-2147

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Northern Pacific Center

Northland Kart Kountry

Oars-N-Mines

Oberg Fence

Optimal Yardscapes LLC

Party World

Paul Bunyan Land

Pequot Lakes Supervalu

Perfection Dock & Lift Service, LLC

Phase II Aspen Ridge

Pine Cone Antiques

Planting Seeds Learning, LLC

Primerica

R&J Broadcasting

Rafferty’s Pizza

Range Disposal

Rasinski Construction

Raymond James Financial

RE/MAX Advantage Plus - Lance & Stephanie Nelson

Recreational Power Sports RPM of Emily

Red Rider Resort

Red Threads Apparel & Custom Design

Restoration Books & Gifts

RG Insurance

Rice Lake Construction Group

River Oaks Dental, PLC

Rods by Russ

Roth RV & Marine

Ruttger’s Bay Lake Resort

Ruttger’s Lakefront Villa Association

Salem Lutheran Church

Salem West

Security State Insurance

Security Storage

Serpent Lake Association

Severson Porter Law

Shift Integrative Medicine

218-833-2357

218-454-1602

218-820-5463

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218-534-3309

robertc@ssimn.com

612-366-2160

651-260-0145

218-692-6970

218-851-9626

SISU Massage & Apothecary LLC

Smokey Jake’s BBQ

Sno Serpents, Inc

Sugarwood Homeowners Association

Superior Balancing

SuperOne Liquor

T&J Services, LLC

Taconite Canteen & Event Center

Team Ascension Martial Arts

The Backyard Greenhouse

The Bigger Picture

The Bike Vault

The Lodge at Sugar Lake, LLC

The Office Shop

The Sanctuary LLC

The Smokestack BBQ Supply Store

Timber Building Supply Inc Ace Hardware

Toby’s Concessions

Traditions at Cuyuna Falls

Trailside Tavern & Patio

TRAX NORTH LLC

Trinity Business Partners

True North Basecamp

Unbound Adventures

Unity Bank

Uplifted Wellness Studio

Victual

Weekend Extensions

Whistling Pete

Whole Person Counseling

Widseth

Wing Wellness Medical Spa

Within Range MN

Woodland Beach Resort

218-772-8041

760-440-5475

218-839-7581

218-327-1462

218-546-9988

218-622-0802

612-245-6579

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608-212-2129

218-327-1462

800-450-9000

612-710-0921

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218-838-4995

847-354-2070

218-772-0131

218-829-5117

218-839-9463

319-899-9372

218-866-0711

OPENING2023

Essentia Health St. Joseph’s DeerwoodClinic & Pharmacy

Inthisplace,wefacechallengesheadon,believingthatwithcommunity andcommitment,wecanbuildsomethingbetter.Livehealthier.

Takecareofeachother.Thisisourroleinthestory.Withtopphysiciansand providers,world-classtechnologyandpersonalizedcare,EssentiaHealth helpsyourealizeyourbesthealth whereyoulive.