Paul Bunyan statue & Headwaters

About

In the northern Minnesota town of Bemidji, a larger-than-life Paul Bunyan stands alongside Babe the Blue Ox on the shores of Lake Bemidji. These beloved statues have greeted visitors since 1937, making them one of the oldest Paul Bunyan monuments in the country. They're a quintessential roadside Americana stop, and the lakefront setting makes the visit feel like more than just a photo op.

But the real magic of this region lies about 30 miles south at Itasca State Park, where you can walk across the Mississippi River at its headwaters. Yes, walk across it. The mighty Mississippi begins as a modest stream flowing out of Lake Itasca, shallow enough to wade through or step across on rocks. It's one of those bucket-list moments that surprises people with how simple and powerful it feels.

The Paul Bunyan statue area in Bemidji sits along the lakefront near a visitor center and downtown shops. It's a quick stop, but the surrounding area offers plenty to fill a day. The nearby Paul Bunyan Historical Museum provides local logging-era history and artifacts.

At Itasca State Park, you'll find over 32,000 acres of old-growth pine forest, wildlife, and more than 100 lakes. The headwaters site draws visitors year-round, though summer and early fall are the most popular seasons. A gift shop and interpretive center sit near the headwaters crossing.

For families, both spots work beautifully together as a day trip. Start at the headwaters in the morning, then drive north to Bemidji for lunch and a photo with Paul and Babe. The drive between them passes through classic Minnesota northwoods scenery, with pine trees lining the highway and lakes appearing around every bend.

Whether you're a road-trip enthusiast, a geography buff, or just someone who wants to stand where America's greatest river begins, this corner of Minnesota delivers a genuinely memorable experience.

Accessibility

The Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox statues in Bemidji sit on a paved lakefront area that is generally level and approachable for wheelchair users and those with mobility aids. The viewing area and photo spots are on flat ground near the parking area, making access straightforward.

At Itasca State Park's headwaters, accessibility is more variable. The park has made improvements over the years, including a paved path leading toward the headwaters area. However, the iconic rock crossing at the Mississippi's origin point involves uneven, natural terrain with wet stones, which presents challenges for visitors with mobility limitations. There is a viewing area near the crossing where visitors can see the headwaters without crossing the rocks.

Itasca State Park offers accessible restrooms at the Mary Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Center near the headwaters site. Designated accessible parking spaces are available at major stops throughout the park. The Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center includes accessible facilities and interpretive displays.

For visitors with sensory sensitivities, both locations are primarily outdoor experiences. The Bemidji lakefront can get busy during summer weekends but is generally a calm environment. Itasca State Park's headwaters area draws steady crowds in peak season, so early morning visits tend to be quieter.

Contact Itasca State Park directly at (218) 699-7251 for the most current details on accessible trails, available mobility equipment, and any seasonal changes to path conditions. For the Bemidji lakefront area, contact Visit Bemidji at (877) 250-5959 for current accessibility information.

More accessible places in Minnesota

• Science Museum of Minnesota (St. Paul)
• Walker Art Center and Minneapolis Sculpture Garden (Minneapolis)
• Minnesota Zoo (Apple Valley)
• Mall of America (Bloomington)
• Minneapolis Institute of Art (Minneapolis)
• Voyageurs National Park (International Falls)