The first 50 miles of the 100 mile, multi-use, recreational trail was paved with asphalt and opened in October 1992, from Brainerd/Baxter to Hackensack, MN. Creation of the Paul Bunyan Trail, named after the legendary logger, required a Bunyan-sized effort. Construction and paving of the trail is the longest paving project undertaken by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources under one contract.

The trail pathway follows the original railroad line built in 1893 by Burlington Northern and abandoned in 1983. It is now among the longest paved "Rails to Trails" in the nation. This new Trail will ultimately link 16 communities between it's source in Brainerd/ Baxter and Lake Bemidji State Park on the north. It is non-motorized, except for snowmobiles. Uses of the Paul Bunyan Trail will include bicycling, hiking, in-line skating, and it is fully accessible for persons with disabilities. The Trail showcases area pine forests, sparkling lakes, colorful wildflowers and wildlife. The user will pass along the shorelines of 21 lakes, through scenic wetlands, and cross bridges over streams and rivers. Trail users will find lodging, dining and support services available at convenient locations and in all price ranges. Vehicle parking is available in each community along the trail. In Baxter, where the Paul Bunyan Trail begins, a temporary parking lot is located at the trailhead. Other lots are located in Merrifield, Pequot Lakes, Pine River and Backus.

The remaining phases of construction, from Hackensack to Bemidji, are being completed as funding from the legislature is secured. When completed, the Paul Bunyan Trail will intersect at Walker, MN with the 47 mile Heartland State Trail. At Bemidji, the Paul Bunyan Trail continues on as the Blue Ox Trail, for another 110 miles to the Canadian border. With the Paul Bunyan Trails connection to the Heartland State Trail, the Blue Ox Trail and other planned extensions, this system of trails in Minnesota will become one of Americas Longest Rails to Trails.

Numerous projects along the trail are on-going and improvements are being made every day.

_{Thank you to Terry McGaughey for all photographs}