Biwabik, Minnesota, is a small town located in the scenic Mesabi Range region of northeastern Minnesota. Known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and rich cultural heritage, Biwabik offers visitors a diverse range of activities and attractions to explore. Whether you're a nature lover, an outdoor enthusiast, or someone seeking cultural experiences, Biwabik has something for everyone. Here's an in-depth article about things to do in Biwabik, MN.
Outdoor Recreation
Biwabik is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes that offer ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. One of the main attractions in the area is Giants Ridge, a year-round outdoor recreation destination that boasts two championship golf courses, world-class skiing and snowboarding trails, and scenic hiking and biking trails. Giants Ridge is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as downhill and cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, fat biking, golfing, and fishing in the warmer months.
For those who enjoy hiking and exploring nature, the Mesabi Trail is a must-visit. This paved trail spans over 135 miles and winds through picturesque forests, lakes, and historic mining towns, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. The trail is perfect for hiking, biking, and even snowmobiling in the winter, providing a unique way to experience the beauty of the Mesabi Range.
Another popular outdoor destination in Biwabik is the Vermilion Gorge and the Vermilion River. This pristine area is perfect for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing, with opportunities to spot wildlife such as bald eagles, ospreys, and beavers. The Vermilion Gorge is a breathtaking spot with towering rock walls and scenic waterfalls, making it a perfect place for a serene nature retreat.
Cultural Experiences
Biwabik is also rich in cultural heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into the area's history and traditions. One of the main cultural attractions in Biwabik is the Ironworld Discovery Center, which showcases the history and heritage of the Mesabi Iron Range. This interactive museum features exhibits on the area's mining history, immigrant stories, and cultural traditions, providing an educational and immersive experience for visitors of all ages.
For those interested in the arts, Biwabik is home to the Lyric Center for the Arts, a vibrant arts organization that hosts exhibitions, performances, and workshops throughout the year. The Lyric Center is housed in a historic building and serves as a hub for local artists and art enthusiasts, promoting creativity and artistic expression in the community.
Biwabik is also known for its annual events and festivals that celebrate the local culture and traditions. The Biwabik Blueberry Arts Festival, held every July, is a popular event that features live music, arts and crafts vendors, and blueberry-themed treats. Another annual event is the Winter Frolic, which takes place in February and offers a variety of winter activities such as snowshoeing, ice fishing, and snowmobiling, along with fun events like snow sculpture contests and bonfires.
Dining and Shopping
Biwabik offers a range of dining and shopping options to cater to visitors' tastes and interests. The town has a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars that serve up delicious cuisine, ranging from classic American fare to ethnic specialties. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty meal after a day of outdoor adventures or looking for a cozy spot to grab a cup of coffee, Biwabik has something to satisfy your cravings.
When it comes to shopping, Biwabik is known for its unique boutiques, gift shops, and specialty stores. Visitors can find one-of-a-kind items, including locally made arts and crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs, that make for perfect souvenirs or gifts to take home. Some of the shops in Biwabik also offer outdoor gear and equipment for those who want to gear up for their adventures in the nearby wilderness.
Relaxation and Wellness
If relaxation and wellness are on your agenda, Biwabik has options to indulge in some self-care. The town is home to several spas and wellness centers that offer a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and other therapeutic services. After a day of outdoor activities, treating yourself to a spa experience can be a great way to unwind and rejuvenate.
Golfing
Biwabik is also known for its exceptional golf courses, making it a haven for golf enthusiasts. Giants Ridge, mentioned earlier, features two championship golf courses, The Quarry and The Legend, which are nestled in the picturesque landscapes of the Mesabi Range. Both courses offer challenging layouts, scenic views, and top-notch facilities, making them popular among golfers of all skill levels.
Fishing
With its numerous lakes and rivers, Biwabik is also a haven for fishing enthusiasts. Anglers can cast their lines in the nearby lakes and rivers to try their luck at catching a variety of fish species, including walleye, northern pike, bass, and panfish. There are also local fishing guides and outfitters available for those who want to explore the waters with expert guidance.
Seasonal Activities
Biwabik offers different activities depending on the season. In the winter, visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding at Giants Ridge, snowmobiling on the nearby trails, or simply soaking in the winter wonderland scenery. In the warmer months, hiking, biking, fishing, and boating are popular outdoor activities. Fall brings a stunning display of fall foliage in the surrounding forests, making it a great time for hiking and enjoying the autumn colors.
Accommodations
Biwabik offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. From cozy cabins and vacation rentals to hotels and resorts, there are plenty of places to stay in and around Biwabik. Many of these accommodations are located close to the outdoor recreation areas, making it convenient for visitors to access the nearby attractions and activities.
In conclusion, Biwabik, MN, offers a plethora of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. From outdoor adventures and cultural experiences to dining, shopping, and relaxation, Biwabik has something for everyone. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, Biwabik has it all. So, pack your bags and head to this charming town in northeastern Minnesota for an unforgettable experience filled with natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and warm hospitality.
In the heart of Northern Minnesota, nestled amid dense forests and tranquil waters in Biwabik, Minnesota, lies Embarrass Lake. For centuries, this pristine lake has been home to a legendary creature known as the Embarrass Lake mermaid, or as she was originally called by the French Canadian fur traders, the Lac Laurentian mermaid.
The legend began in the early 1800s, during the peak of the fur trade era. French Canadian trappers and traders ventured deep into the wilderness, seeking their fortunes. It was on the shores of Embarrass Lake that they first encountered her, a creature unlike any they had ever seen.
With long, flowing auburn hair that shimmered like liquid copper in the sunlight, and emerald-green eyes that sparkled like the lake itself, she was a vision of ethereal beauty. Her upper body was that of a graceful woman, but below her waist, she possessed a magnificent fish tail that glistened with iridescent scales.
The trappers watched in awe as she swam gracefully through the lake's dark waters, her melodious song echoing through the forest. Some believed she was a guardian spirit of the lake, while others thought she brought good fortune to those who encountered her.
As word of the mermaid's existence spread, more and more people sought her out. Fishermen and families living along the lake's shores claimed to have seen her, often during the tranquil hours of dawn and dusk when the world was hushed in reverence. She would surface briefly, her enchanting song drawing them closer, only to disappear into the depths before they could get too close.
Generations passed, and the legend of the Embarrass Lake mermaid endured. She became a symbol of the lake's mystique, a source of wonder and inspiration for the local community. Over the years, many attempted to capture her on film or record her songs, but the mermaid remained elusive, as if she were a part of the very soul of the lake itself.
Despite her elusive nature, the mermaid's presence continued to bless the people of Embarrass Lake with a sense of wonder and connection to the natural world. She reminded them of the beauty that could be found in the most unexpected places and the importance of preserving the pristine wilderness that she called home.
To this day, the legend of the Embarrass Lake mermaid lives on, captivating the hearts and imaginations of those who visit the tranquil waters of this enchanting lake in Northern Minnesota. Whether she is a guardian spirit, a symbol of the lake's beauty, or simply a figment of the imagination, the mermaid of Embarrass Lake remains an enduring mystery, a reminder that in the depths of nature, wonders beyond our wildest dreams can be found.
Tucked in the heart of northeastern Minnesota, a mere hour and twenty minutes from the Duluth/Superior region, lies the little known vacationing gem of Biwabik, Minnesota. Ideally situated between the Superior National Forest, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area, the Kabetogama State Forest and Koochiching State Forest, Biwabik is perfectly located for travelers seeking an opportunity to experience the beauty of the Minnesotan wilderness in a new and profound way. In addition to its ideal location, the community of Biwabik welcomes visitors with an abundance of Midwestern charm and grace. The Iron Range Interpretative Center, the Minnesota Museum of Mining, the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame and the Giants Ridge Ski and Golf Resort are all easily accessible from this quaint and historic community. If you and your family are looking for a new spot to vacation this year; a spot perfect no matter what the season, be sure to consider Biwabik. It will be a trip you will not soon forget.
Located in St. Louis County, Minnesota, Biwabik is home to approximately one thousand three hundred residents. While this number may sound small, its residents are extraordinarily welcoming to the travelers seeking respite from the pressures of the ordinary world and the numbers tend to swell in warmer summer months. Having been home to immigrants from countless home countries, the region is truly representative of America's melting pot; however, it was the Scandinavian and Finnish influences which had the greatest impact on the architecture of the Biwabik community. Quaint gift shops line the main street of this extraordinary town, beckoning visitors to come in and peruse various imported and handmade gift items. Small, local eateries such as Alden's restaurant feature good food at great prices. Best of all, out of towners will feel right at home amidst the boisterous and friendly locals of this community.
Biwabik is not only a present day vacationing paradise, it is also an integral part of the history of northeastern Minnesota. Located on the Mesabi Iron Range in the valley of the Embarrass River, Biwabik inherited its name from the Ojibwe Indian tribe who once roamed the surrounding lands hunting for meat and foraging for berries. Loosely translated, Biwabik means 'iron' or 'valuable' in the Ojibwe dialect and the town was likely named as a result of the rich iron ore mines of the surrounding region. Several Indian burial mounds have been discovered in the area which now encompasses Biwabik, indicating that this area may once have served as an Indian camping ground. European fur traders flocked to this region in the 19th century due to its wealth of furs, natural resources and the numerous waterways which helped make the terrain easy to traverse.
Around the time of the Civil War in 1865 and 1866, the area was inundated with gold hunters looking to cash in on the reputed gold fields of the Mesabi Iron Range and the Lake Vermilion district. The gold prospectors were succeeded by miners seeking the rich deposits of iron ore throughout the region, but Biwabik didn't emerge as true stronghold until 1891 when miners discovered a rich, high-grade blue ore in what was to become the Biwabik Mine. More ore was subsequently discovered in the Cincinnati, the Hale and the Kanawha mines, all located close to Biwabik, and plans for a town began to take shape. Biwabik itself was officially incorporated as a village in the fall of 1892. The village later re-incorporated, becoming an independent entity from the township of the same name later in 1893. Originally adjacent to the community of Merritt, Minnesota, Biwabik emerged as the center of civilization in the region when Merritt was nearly destroyed by fire. This fact, combined with the railroads' decision to run tracks through Biwabik instead of Merritt, ultimately served to ensure Biwabik's survival and Merritt's demise.
In the past, the community of Biwabik was largely supported by the mining industry. Miners moved to the region seeking jobs and the numerous mining facilities. Today, most of the mines have ceased operations, with the exception of the open pit Biwabik Mine. Farming has emerged as an economic powerhouse in the region and seed potatoes have become a staple crop here in northeastern Minnesota. The dairy industry has also moved to the Biwabik region as a result of the plentiful farmland and ideal climate conditions. Tourism has also provided an economic boost to the region, particularly in the warmer Minnesotan months of spring, summer and fall. With its rich historical heritage, the Mesabi Iron Range region boasts over thirty-five locations listed on the National Register of Historic Places, drawing visitors eager to experience the outstanding outdoor recreation and notable history of the Biwabik and the surrounding area.
Today, visitors can experience the unique culture and mining history of the Mesabi Iron Range through a variety of museums and interactive experiences. In nearby Tower, Minnesota, visitors can actually experience what it must have felt like to be a miner working in an underground mine as they take a half-mile trip below the surface of the Earth. While underground mines were more common during the early days of mining, most of the area's mines have been converted into 'open pit' mines. This difference can be experienced through a visit to the Hill Annex Mine State Park. Interpretative guides will help educate and entertain you throughout your visit. At the Minnesota Discovery Center located in Chisolm, Minnesota, your family can explore the rich history of this region brought to life by costumed interpreters and even a vintage trolley ride to a formerly operating mine. Interactive exhibits, spectacular mining views and even a miniature mining themed golf course complete the experience here. If you happen to be here in June, be sure to stop in for a visit to the Minnesota Discovery Center's annual Polkafest, celebrating the colorful culture which helped shape the Mesabi Iron Range region.
While mining is certainly important to the Mesabi Iron Range region, there are a variety of other historical aspects for your family to explore. The history and heritage of Native Americans should not be overlooked during a trip to the Biwabik area. The Bois Forte Heritage Center features the Atisokanigamig "Legend House," which offers a closer look at the Bois Forte Band of the Ojibwe Indians. Logging traditions and their importance to the development of northeastern Minnesota come to life at the Forest History Center in nearby Grand Rapids. Costumer interpreters and live animals demonstrate logging practices from yesteryear here at this extraordinary site which is sure to capture the imaginations and hearts of everyone in your traveling party.
For a glimpse into early Minnesotan domestic life, sites such as the Eli Wirtanen Farm bring the historic traditions of life on a Finnish farm to life. Featuring a self-guided tour, visitors to the 1904 Eli Wirtanen Farm can stroll through sixteen historic buildings including the main house, a shingle mill, a pig pen, hay shed and horse barn. The bath house of the Eli Wirtanen Farm is truly unique, featuring the only 'smoke hole' style of structure where smoke was released from the roof through holes rather than a more traditional chimney structure. The Eli Wiranen Farm is approximately twenty miles south of Biwabik. If the Eli Wiranen Farm peaks your interest, a fifteen mile guided audio tour through the Embarrass River Valley will offer you a unique perspective on the Finnish architecture of northern Minnesota in the early 20th century. The Nelimark Homestead Museum allows visitors to peruse through hand-crafted items including Finnish quilts, carvings and toys. On Kaleva Island, near Eveleth, Minnesota, be sure to check out the historic main lodge building and the traditional Finnish sauna dating back to 1929.
For aficionados of more modern history, musical legend Bob Dylan was raised in nearby Hibbing, Minnesota from the age of seven until his graduation from the historic Hibbing High School in 1959. He was born Robert Allen Zimmerman and while his childhood home located at 2425 'Dylan Drive' is not open for public tours, visitors can check out a copy of his senior yearbook at the Hibbing Public Library along with a small display dedicated to his life and work. Tours of his high school are also available where the piano he once played on is still used today. Every year in May, 'Dylan Days, a celebration of Bob Dylan's birthday and life's accomplishments is held in Hibbing, complete with a Mystery Bur Tour, live poetry readings and open microphone nights at area establishments.
Festivals and events are also a highlight of the Biwabik and Mesabi Iron Range experience. The annual Fourth of July festival in Biwabik features the area's largest parade and a breath-taking fireworks display. The Land of the Loon Arts and Crafts festival in nearby Virginia celebrates the diverse heritage of northeastern Minnesota every year in June, featuring delectable ethnic cuisine, artisan crafts, dancing and entertainment. In September, Biwabik itself hosts the Wirtanen Farm Days Fall Festival where visitors and locals alike can celebrate Finnish culture with dancers, performers, artisans and food. Giant Jam, an annual two day music festival, draws big crowds with some wonderful country and rock bands. Held annually around the third weekend in August, Giant Jam has hosted some terrific artists in its time. For the past eighteen year, Biwabik's Weihnachtsfest has been an annual Christmas tradition of the region. Held on the first Saturday in December, Weihnachtsfest celebrates the annual Christmas lighting, crowned by a magnificent fireworks display, live music and dancing. Craft tables featuring local artisans and handcrafted items of the Bavarian tradition are set up in the local church and the Bavarian-style City Hall building. The local youth present a children's musical beginning at 11:00 a.m. Horse drawn trolleys, tempting sweets from the Weihnachtsfest Candy House and polka complete the Weihnachtsfest experience. For traditional ethnic foods, be sure to try the hot meat pies commonly referred to as pasties, the Slavik potica, a walnutty sweet roll, and the sarmas, similar to the cabbage roll.
If you happen to be in the Biwabik area during a time when no festivals or events are scheduled, never fear. There are still countless ways to relax in and around the Biwabik area. Just one minute out of town, Embarrass Lake is home to a lovely beach and campground area. Fishermen will love the plentiful walleye, bass and perch to be found beneath the waters of Embarrass Lake. If fishing on a boat isn't your cup of tea, the fishing dock offers a great shoreline alternative. In the summer, the beach is patrolled by a lifeguard, making it a terrific spot for swimming and sun-bathing. Water-skiing and sand volleyball are also great activities along the shores of Embarrass Lake. Esquagama Lake is also nearby, also offering an array of aquatic sports and outdoor recreational opportunities. Thousands of miles of trails through the Minnesotan forests are easily accessible from the Biwabik region, making it a great spot for wildlife viewing and for teaching your children about the plants and fauna to be found in the old world forests of northeastern Minnesota. Relax on the lakes with water-skiing or inner-tubing. In winter, don't let the freezing temperatures deter you. The Biwabik region is home to some of the most outstanding skiing and snow-mobiling terrain of northeastern Minnesota. Be sure to plan an hour or two of the quintessential Minnesotan pastime of ice-fishing. The outdoor recreation is outstanding here in the Biwabik region.
No visit to Biwabik would be complete without a relaxing trip to the nearby Giants Ridge Golf and Ski Resort, home of world class skiing and championship golf. Each year, the Giants Ridge Golf and Ski Resort attracts leisure visitors from near and far with its outstanding golf and a wide array of luxurious accommodation options. Golfing in the summer, skiing and snowmobiling in the winter, this resort property is truly the ideal spot to experience the beauty that is northeastern Minnesota. The U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame is a short drive from Biwabik. Young hockey players and fans will be delighted by the gigantic 107 foot tall, three ton hockey stick towering over nearby Eveleth, complete with a huge rubber puck. For a bit of culture, be sure to plan a visit to the Lyric Center for the Arts in downtown Virginia, a historic 1912 opera house providing artistic opportunities for the people of the Mesabi Iron Range region. For a true change of pace, plan a trip to the Olcott Park Greenhouse of Virginia, Minnesota. This gorgeous, tropical garden stands in defiance of the cold Minnesotan weather and provides local and visitors alike a chance to experience new and amazing forms of fauna and plant life.
Not only is Biwabik the ideal getaway destination, it is also a great spot for families looking to relocate to Minnesota. Home to great schools, a multitude of community parks and wide open land perfect for families looking to carve out their own utopic vision, Biwabik is small-town America, at its finest. The Biwabik community is the official home of the "Honk the Moose" statue, a statute dedicated to the iconic storybook character of the same name. People can stroll along the city's lighted walking trail or allow their children to play in the beautiful city park with a wonderful array of wildflowers and plants. In cooler winter months, the sliding hill and skating rink are the pride and joy of the Biwabik community, allowing folks to experience the joys of winter sports here in the Northwoods. Whether folks are looking for the perfect spot to experience their retirement, or just looking for a drastic and wonderful change of pace in their everyday lives, Biwabik is a great choice. With countless outdoor recreational opportunities and an extremely reasonable cost of living, Biwabik is also particularly attractive to young families looking for a great spot to raise their kids.
Whether you are looking for a unique and new vacation destination for a week or two next summer or a place to establish more permanent roots in northeastern Minnesota, Biwabik and the surrounding Mesabi Iron Range region is a truly amazing choice. Beautiful, but remote enough not to be overrun with countless tourists, this region offers so much to visitors and residents alike. Why wait? Experience the inspiration that is northeastern Minnesota. Plan your visit to this incredible region today!
Nestled in the heart of the Mesabi Iron Range in northeastern Minnesota, Biwabik is a small town that packs a big punch. With a population of just under 1,000 people, Biwabik is a charming community that offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures, rich history, and small-town hospitality.
Biwabik's history is closely tied to the iron ore industry. In the late 1800s, iron ore was discovered in the area, leading to a rush of miners and the development of several mines. The town was officially incorporated in 1902, and it continued to thrive as an industrial hub for many years.
Today, Biwabik has transitioned from a mining town to a tourist destination. Visitors come from all over the country to enjoy the area's natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. Giants Ridge Golf and Ski Resort is a popular attraction, offering two championship golf courses and ski slopes with 35 downhill runs and 60 kilometers of cross-country skiing trails.
The Mesabi Trail, a paved bike trail that spans over 130 miles across northeastern Minnesota, passes through Biwabik. This trail is a great way to explore the area's natural beauty, from rolling hills to pristine lakes and forests. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, fishing, hunting, and snowmobiling in the surrounding wilderness.
In addition to its outdoor adventures, Biwabik has a rich history that is worth exploring. The Biwabik City Hall and Fire Hall was built in 1922 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The building features a stunning brick exterior and unique architectural details, and it serves as a reminder of the town's industrial past.
Visitors can also learn more about Biwabik's history at the Biwabik Heritage Center, a museum that showcases the town's mining heritage and the lives of the people who lived and worked in the area. The museum features exhibits on mining equipment, photographs, and artifacts from the town's past.
Despite its small size, Biwabik is a community that is dedicated to preserving its heritage and promoting its natural beauty. The town hosts several events throughout the year, including the annual Biwabik Summerfest and the Winter Frolic, which celebrates the area's winter sports culture.
In conclusion, Biwabik, Minnesota is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of history and outdoor adventure. Whether you're looking to explore the area's mining heritage or enjoy its natural beauty, Biwabik has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and head to this charming town for an unforgettable experience.
Copyright © Biwabik MN. All rights reserved.