Northern Tier Section 5

Almost without exception, the route passes through this section follows quiet, rural roads. The route through Itasca State Park, the headwaters of the Mississippi River. During the summer it gets heavy use from recreational vehicles. East of Bemidji the route flattens out and opens up, although the countryside is timbered. Along U.S. 2 the land becomes somewhat marshy, with more frequent river crossings. There is heavy truck traffic on the portions of U.S. 2 used by the route. Unfortunately, it is the only way through the area. Traffic increases as you reach Grand Rapids. An alternate to Dalbo, which shortens the route by 125 miles, has many of the same characteristics as the main route.