Laurentian Divide Driving Tour

On this beautiful scenic drive, you'll actually cross over the Laurentian Divide twice. The Laurentian Divide Lookout Mountain Recreation Area is a greta stop for a family picnic or a leisurely hike to the top of the summit of "Lookout Mountain". From there, you'll be able to see more than 20 miles. The view is especially spectacular during fall.

The Pike River Dam is located just a quarter-mile north of Hwy 169 on Hwy 77 and offers a breathtaking backdrop to the cascading Pike River.

Children will enjoy climbing aboard an early iron ore train and locomotive at the Tower Train museum.

Giants Ridge Golf & Ski Resort in Biwabik offers more than 60 km of hiking and mountain biking trails bordering the Laurentian Divide. Rated among the best golf courses in the world, The Legend and The Quarry at Giants Ridge are "must-play" courses for any golf enthusiast. Equipment rentals are available for mountain bikes, inline skates, canoes, kayaks and much more!

In nearby Biwabik, families always stop for a picture opportunity with "Honk the Moose."

Minutes away, in Gilbert, you can learn about the Iron Range's history at the Iron Range Historical Museum or ride your ATV/OHV at the state's premier ATV/OHV park -- the Iron Range Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Area.

In Eveleth, you'll enjoy hockey's greatest Olympic highlights at the United States Hockey Hall of Fame.

Mineview in the Sky, near Virginia, provides breathtaking views of the area for miles and miles.

Approximate mileage: 70 miles
Drive time: 1.5 hours (for maximum enjoyment, allow 3.5 hours)
Route time: Virginia to Tower: 35 minutes; Tower to Aurora: 30 minutes; Aurora to Virginia: 20 minutes
Cities on route: Virginia, Tower, Aurora, Biwabik, Gilbert and Eveleth.