Visitors

Visitors
Location & Access
Pine County is located in the east central part of Minnesota covering 1411 square miles with a population of approximately 30,000.  Less than an hour from MSP International Airport, and only 90 minutes south of the Port of Duluth on Lake Superior, Pine County straddles Interstate 35 providing easy access to east-west highways including MN 61, MN 23, MN 48 and MN 70, the latter two highways which provide entrance into western Wisconsin.

Best of Both Worlds
Pine County offers the best of both worlds. Its location on the I-35 corridor makes for ease of access to all the attractions and markets of the Twin Cities and Duluth. At the same time, its attractive small towns and rolling, wooded countryside speckled with many recreational amenities represent the best of rural living. It is a splendid place to work and live.

There is an abundance of scenic and recreational activities attracts and keeps residents satisfied with many lakes and rivers which make up over 23 square miles of water. 

The Chengwatana State Forest, General CC Andrews State Forest, Banning State Park, St. Croix State Park and the Nemadji State Forest boast miles of hiking, ATV, canoeing, kayaking, rock climbing, cross-country skiing and snowmobile trails. 

Communities are vibrant and full of year-round activities and events promoted by organizations like the Pine City Area Chamber of CommerceHinckley Convention & Visitors Bureau, Hinckley Area Chamber of Commerce or Sandstone Area Chamber of Commerce.

The largest employer in the County is the Grand Casino Hinckley, located in the city of the same name. GCH is owned by the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe and is a popular destination for fun-seekers from the Twin Cities. 

Four major healthcare systems serve the county – Essentia, Fairview, Gateway Clinics, and Welia. 

Pine Technical & Community College is one of the fastest growing technical & community colleges in the state and not only provides valuable workforce training opportunities, but also provides 10% of the job base along with the four local school districts - Willow River, Hinckley-Finlayson, East Central & Pine City.

Whether you are visiting or planning to spend more time here, you will find Pine County full of enjoyable activities for everyone. Pine County enjoys easy access to big city amenities while maintaining a charming, small town atmosphere. It is a splendid place to work, live or visit.