Gunflint Trail Scenic Byways Committee Organizes

Officers for the new Gunflint Trail Scenic Byway committee were chosen at the interim committee’s last meeting on Tuesday, June 7, 2005. Selected were Nancy Seaton, Hungry Jack Outfitters, Chairperson; Fred Smith, Gunflint Lake, Vice Chairperson; Linda Hendrickson, Hungry Jack Lake, Project subcommittee Chairperson and Barbara Young, Poplar Creek Guesthouse Bed &Breakfast, Marketing subcommittee Chairperson. Other active committee members meeting since March, 2005, are Sue Prom, President, Gunflint Trail Association; Carol Miller, Gunflint Lake; Eleanor Lease, Road Lake; Bob Maki, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources; Bruce Kerfoot, Gunflint Lake; Chris Hegg, Hedstrom Lumber company; Chuck Schmit, Cook County Highway Department; Jim Johnson, Cook County Commissioner; Judie Johnson, Gunflint Trail Association; Terry Eggum, U.S. Forest Service and Tim Campbell, Minnesota Office of Tourism. The Interim Committee was assisted by Bryan Anderson of the Arrowhead Regional Development Commission.

The Project Subcommittee has identified a number of Gunflint Trail projects. Some of these projects may include enhancing pullout areas with picnic table, latrine and signage. A five year plan will be available to the public within one month. In addition the Cook County Historical Society is researching ideas concerning the Old Gunflint Trail entrance sign in Grand Marais. And painting the water tower has been discussed by the city council.

Working on getting the word out about the Gunflint Trail Scenic Byway, the Marketing Subcommittee’s future plans may include an interpretive CD and brochure that will point out scenic and historic points of interest along the Trail plus a mile on each side of the Trail. Scenic Byway signs have already been placed by the Cook County Highway Department at Highway 61 and the new Gunflint Trail entrance and also at 5th Avenue and the Gunflint Trail.In addition a history subcommittee is being formed that will gather information about historic sites, cabins and resorts. Ted Young, who has agreed to work on this subcommittee is currently seeking representatives from various areas and lakes along the Trail.The mission of the Gunflint Trail Scenic Byway Committee is to use the scenic byway to enhance the experience of travelers along the Gunflint Trail.