Deer River is at the gateway to the Chippewa National Forest. Within minutes of the community are the largest white pine forests in northern Minnesota offering a retreat for hunters, hikers, campers, snowmobilers, and cross-country and downhill enthusiasts. The crystal clear water of glacial lakes and thousands of streams provides a pristine setting for swimming, boating, fishing, and other water activities. Visit the Cutfoot Sioux Visitor Center located north of Deer River on Hwy 46 to see more of what the Chippewa National Forest has to offer.

Each season brings its own particular beauty to the Deer River area. Rivers, lakes, and streams abound with walleye, northern pike, muskies, Crappie, Jumbo Perch and other species of fish. Moose, whitetailed deer, timber wolves, black bear, fox, ruffed grouse and waterfowl thrive in this natural paradise. The Chippewa is also home to the largest breeding population of Bald Eagles in the lower 48 states and has an estimated Loon population of 5000.

Make sure you take a drive up the Avenue of Pines Scenic Byway on Hwy 46. See how huge some of the few remaining virgin pine trees that once covered northern Minnesota are by going to Dora Lake and see The Lost Forty. Take a ride from Grand Rapids to Effie along the Edge of the Wilderness Scenic Byway.

Other recreational attractions include a nearby golf course, tennis courts, bowling alley, snowmobile trails, parks, and camping sites. The Deer River Bushwackers snowmobile club proudly maintains a trail which connects Deer River with the Ave. of Pines trail in the Chippewa National Forest. They will keep up-to-date trail information in our Guest Book.

The Judy Garland Birthplace, Judy Garland Children's Museum and Forest History Center are located in Grand Rapids. You can also take a tour of the Hill Annex Iron Mine and visit Ironworld Discovery Center, where the heritage of northeastern Minnesota is preserved, celebrated and showcased for visitors of all ages.

A dozen state parks are nearby, including Itasca State Park, where the Mississippi River begins its 2,500-mile journey to the Gulf of Mexico.

For the children, we have the King's Courtyard, a wonderland of fantasy and imagination for all children. This playground, constructed in 1993 by area volunteers using money raised by local fund raisers and donations, is a dream come true for our young people. It is located at King Elementary School. From Highway 2, turn south at Rajala Lumber, (4th St.) to the end of the street. Turn left to the school and veer left through the parking lot to the playground. It is open to the public.