Finland & Isabella
Rugged wilderness & a captivating history
Finland
From MN-61, just over eight miles north on Highway 1, you’ll find the community of Finland, Minnesota, nestled in the Baptism River Valley and surrounded by rugged hills and cliffs known as the Sawtooth Mountains. Its rugged isolation made it one of the last areas of Minnesota to be settled. It wasn’t until the late 1890’s that the first Finns and other Scandinavians began to file for homesteads in this remote section of Lake County.
The Finland MN Historical Society, founded in 1986, has preserved the John Pine Homestead, creating the Finland Heritage Site.
Many area locals remember stories of grandparents and great-grandparents living in houses much like the John Pine House, bathing in a sauna, and living on small farms and homesteads that probably looked like the Finland Heritage Site does now.
Isabella
As you drive 20 miles along Highway 1 from Finland, you’ll reach Isabella’s small, unincorporated community. Surrounded by the Superior National Forest with scattered lakes and streams, Isabella provides a large wildlife population to photograph or hunt.
In addition, its many lakes and streams offer excellent fishing, and the great snowmobile and cross-country ski trails, coupled with the US Forest Service campgrounds and resort businesses, attract many outdoor enthusiasts.
Explore Finland & Isabella
C.J. Ramstad North Shore State Snowmobile Trail
The C.J. Ramstad North Shore State Snowmobile Trail is a 146-mile groomed trail system that tames northern Minnesota’s wild, rugged terrain. Leaving Duluth, the C.J. …
Superior Hiking Trail
The Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) spans 300+ miles from Jay Cooke State Park to the Canadian border. It recently joined the North Country Trail system’s …
Wild Country Trail
The Wild Country Trail’s 30-mile ride starts at the Lake Country Demonstration Forest in Two Harbors and then travels along forest roads and trails, including …
Wintermoon Summersun Adventures
Wintermoon Summersun is an environmentally friendly dog sledding and sea kayaking retreat lodge. We have a beautiful and peaceful 400-acre Finnish homestead located 50 miles …
Moose Run Trail
Located north of Finland, the 12-mile Moose Run Trail takes riders through the Sawtooth Mountains along Minnesota’s scenic North Shore. The Moose Run Trail is …
Moose Walk Trail
The Moose Walk Trail is a family-friendly, 1.5-mile ATV & Snowmobile trail that travels through the Sawtooth Mountains along Minnesota’s scenic North Shore. Access the …
Ninemile Lake
Ninemile Lake, surrounded by the Superior National Forest, is 12 miles west of Schroeder, MN. Nine Mile lake also features a state campground and provides …
Kiwatchi Adventures
Located in the backcountry of Isabella, Minnesota, Kiwatchi Adventures will take you on a once-in-a-lifetime dog-sledding adventure for an affordable price. They offer customizable dog …
Crooked Lake
Crooked Lake in Finland, MN, is approximately 12 miles from the BWCAW. Aside from the Crooked Lake Resort and a few private lots, Crooked Lake …
Our Place
Our Place bar and restaurant in Finland, MN, serves traditional breakfast dishes. It’s known for its huge, fluffy pancakes, great prices, and generous portions. Additionally, …
Trestle Inn
The infamous Trestle Inn, tucked in the Superior National Forest and near Lake County snowmobile trails, is a must-stop tradition when riding the trails. You’ll …
Four Seasons Supper Club
Four Seasons Super Club is a full-service restaurant and bar with great drinks and burgers, daily specials including Wed. Shrimp and Fri. Fish Fry. They …
George Crosby Manitou State Park
George Crosby Manitou State Park in Finland is a favored place by locals for its rich wilderness and serene beauty. Hiking this rugged state park …
St Urho Statue
St. Urho was a Finn with a big voice who chased away the grasshoppers to save the grape crop by shouting, “Heinäsirkka, heinäsirkka, mene täältä …
Finland MN Historical Society Heritage Site
The Finland MN Historical Society, founded in 1986, has preserved the John Pine Homestead, creating the Finland Heritage Site. Many area locals remember stories of …
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