Edge of the Wilderness Scenic Byway - Visit Grand Rapids Skip to content
Edge of the Wilderness Scenic Byway
Scenic Byway 805 x 537
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Scenic Byway 805 x 537
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Area Attractions Couples Getaway History & Education Parks & Forests Scenic Drives

Hwy 38 is a 47 mile scenic byway and the oldest in the state. This is a wonderful off the beaten path winter wonderland scenic drive. A great way to get out of the house and enjoy lots of scenic snow outdoor trail access. The EOW Scenic Byway runs from Grand Rapids to Effie, Minnesota.


Travel this spectacular, winding byway by many pristine lakes, forests, swamps, rolling hills, and other unique features. Outdoor recreation, interpretive sites, and other exciting opportunities await the traveler. During the winter it is a winter wonderland, the Northwoods is adorned with the brilliant colors of red sugar maples, bronze oak trees, and glowing.

Hwy 38 Grand Rapids to Effie, Grand Rapids, MN 55744

Wildfire Alerts

At this time there are no wildfires in the Grand Rapids, and Itasca County, Minnesota area. The wildfire smoke from the Cook, Lake, and northern St Louis County fires has moved into the greater Grand Rapids, and Itasca County, Minnesota area today. Predictions with wind and weather conditions that it will clear up significantly this weekend (July 17-19, 2026). Below are some resources and updated information regarding the air quality and wildfires in Cook, Lake, and northern St Louis County:

MN DNR Wildfire Updates/Alerts:
 https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/forestry/fire/index.html

US Forest Department, Superior National Forest Updates/Alerts: 
https://www.fs.usda.gov/r09/superior/alerts

MPCA Information:
 https://www.pca.state.mn.us/news-and-stories/air-quality-alert-issued-due-to-wildfire-smoke-for-wednesday-july-15-through-friday-july-17-for-east-0

INCI Information : 
https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-publication/mnsuf-july-2026-superior-nf-wildfires/superior-national-forest-and-july-lightning-event-combined-daily-update-07-14-2026