Avenue of Pines is 15 miles northwest of Grand Rapids in north-central Minnesota. The byway begins near Deer River and follows MN 46 northwest to the junction with US 71 in Northome. Minnesota Highway 46 is a two-lane paved road suitable for all vehicles and usually remains open year-round. Avenue of Pines is 46 miles long.
The Avenue of Pines scenic byway travels through Leech Lake Indian Reservation and Chippewa National Forest, crossing low rolling hills covered with red and white pines and numerous lakes. The scenic byway passes Lake Winnibigoshish, Minnesota’s fifth largest lake that offers excellent fishing and boating opportunities. Bald eagles may also be seen circling around the lake. Other wildlife inhabiting the region include osprey, white-tailed deer, black bear, gray wolf, and numerous waterfowl.
Cut Foot Sioux Visitor Center is located midway along the byway and offers information and displays on the natural resources of the area. Films and presentations are given throughout the summer months. The Cut Foot Sioux National Recreation Trail is located near here. This trail follows the approximate location of the early fur trade routes and overland portages used by Indians. Also near the visitor center is the Cut Foot Sioux Ranger Station, which was constructed in 1904. The original log cabin is listed as a National Historic Site.
Chippewa National Forest was the first national forest established east of the Mississippi. It offers over 600,000 acres of land for a variety of recreational uses. Several national forest campgrounds have been developed along the byway, with more available throughout the forest. A large number of lakes and rivers provide excellent canoeing opportunities. Fishermen will find excellent fishing for muskie, walleye, northern pike, bass, and sunfish. Numerous trails cross the national forest providing opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and bicycling.