CSAH #66
CSAH #66 forms the north-eastern part of the Scenic Byway from
the intersection with CSAH #3 to the
intersection with CSAH #1 and includes
downtown Crosslake and passes through part of Manhattan Beach.
Click For Byway Map
Photos by Rod Nelson or JM Plein Consulting unless otherwise noted.
Click on the images to open a larger view window.
#66 - Mile 0.0
Corps of Engineers Dam and Recreational Park
The Corps of Engineers dam, located at the site of the Campground,
controls the level of the entire Chain. The dam, originally built
out of wood in 1886, was upgraded to concrete between 1904-07. In
1920 the operating system for the dam was modified to reflect the
lock system installed on the Mississippi River in and near the Twin
Cities. No longer was the main purpose of the Cross Lake dam to
help supply enough water for shipping on the Mississippi, but rather
to handle the ever increasing recreational use of the Chain.
Crosslake’s oldest historical site, this area was surveyed by Joseph
N. Nicollet in 1836 as a part of his Survey of the Upper Mississippi
Territory. In 1880 Congress appropriated money, made the necessary
settlements with the Indians, and work was begun on the Pine River
Dam. The dam was completed in 1886. Some of the original wooden
timbers are now covered with concrete and remain a part of the dam
you see today. Just north of the dam itself is the Recreational
Park and Campground. There are two swimming beaches, a playground,
many scenic campsites and boat access to Crosslake. As you drive or walk into the campground, look to your right for an interpretive panel that tells the story of the dam tender and read how Babe the Blue Ox helped create the dam. The Crosslake dam is also featured in the first series of Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway playing cards.
Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway office
Located in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers building, come in and see memorabilia and artifacts on display. Byway information is always available.
Open hours are Monday through Friday 8:30am to 4:00pm (subject to change) so please call in advance 1-218-692-2025. #66 - Mile 0.0
Andy’s Restaurant and Bar
Originally called The Crosslake Store, this structure was the town’s
first grocery store and a well-known landmark. It is one of Crosslake’s
oldest standing buildings, and although it has undergone many changes,
parts of the original store have been incorporated into the present
structure.
#66 - Mile 0.0
Crosslake Historical Society
Museum Grounds and HistoricVillage
Located on the east side of CSAH 66 and showcasing the surroundings of the Lakes Area’s first residents,
these buildings include: 1) The Ideal Schoolhouse, erected in 1897
on the site of the present day Ideal Fire Station and Community
Center. 2) The First Crosslake Town Hall, built in 1923. 3) Several
log homesteads, restored and furnished by Society volunteers. Open to visitors weekends 11:00am-4:00pm Memorial Day through Labor Day. See
it featured on the first series of Paul Bunyan playing cards. Photo credits: Rod Nelson; Paul Stafford, Explore Minnesota Tourism
#66 - Mile 0.4
Whistling Wolf Mini Golf Course
In addition to the improved and expanded Golf Course, this miniature
golf course was added to a 9-hole course begun in 1985. The 9 holes
expanded to 18 holes in July, 1997. Today the 18 hole Crosswoods
course has relocated to a site east of Crosslake. The miniature
course is now newly remodeled for your enjoyment.
#66 - Mile 1.0
Daggett Brook Villas
On the lake, but yet in town, this lodging facility has a location
that attracts many visitors throughout the year. The playground
and lighted dock system can be easily seen by travelers coming from
either direction.
#66 - Mile 1.4
Old Log Landing
The Northern Pacific Railroad carried logs from points north down
what has become known as ‘the Old Grade Road’ and over parts of
CSAH 66. The area from CSAH 16 to the Crosslake City Hall
was the dumping ground for the logs. Later they were rolled into
Crosslake to be floated down the Pine River to the Mississippi.
The ‘Old Headquarters’ of the Crosslake Logging Company was on the
site of the present day City Hall and Fire Department building.
#66 - Mile 2.0
Moonlight Bay
Opened in the early 1930’s, the original Moonlight Bay was a much
larger building which featured fine dining, two bars, big bands
and dancing. In the 1960’s, in line with the times, this hot night
spot featured go-go dancers on the bar! It ‘s been rumored that
big city gangsters, on a holiday in the area, would often visit
Moonlight Bay. Following a devasting fire on May 31, 1984, the site
remained closed until 1989 when the new building you see today was
built. Now a relaxed, casual dining spot, the owners invite travelers
to stop by for lunch, dinner or just a beverage and a snack.
As you drive into the parking lot, look for an interpretive panel which tells the story of 'Ike the Pike', the meanest, nastiest fish that ever swum these waters - and how Paul Bunyan nearly landed him with his legendary tackle.
#66 - Mile 2.6
Ox Lake
This beautiful 258 acre lake was once the summer playground of
actor brothers, Peter Graves and James Arness. They spent their
childhood vacations in a small cabin on the island that can be seen
as one travels down CSAH 66. Some time was also spent at Oscawana
Resort, which was on the west shore of Ox Lake near Birch Hill Inne.
And did you know Babe the Blue Ox loved to snorkel in Ox
Lake? To find out what compelled Babe to submerge his big blue bulk, get yourself a deck of the third series of Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway Playing Cards.
#66 - Mile 3.1
Birch Hill Inne
In 1924 the land was purchased and in 1926 the Oscawana Resort
was built. Over the years Oscawana was divided into several small
resorts and private homes. Birch Hill Inne is the original carriage
house which was remodelled in 1947 as an eating establishment. It
is currently a Bed and Breakfast, still associated with Oscawana
Cabins.
#66 - Mile 3.4
Loon Lake
Only 50 acres, Loon Lake connects to Island Lake and then flows
into Lower Whitefish. A well-known spot for panfish, it has the
most fishing activity during the spring prior to the opening of
walleye and northern seasons.
#66 - Mile 3.6
Manhattan Beach Lodge
Built in 1929 using ‘Spanish Mission’ architecture, this building
features the original white stucco exterior with extensive native
cedar log trim. Throughout its history, the Lodge has been a regional
destination for the famous and the infamous with ties to the gangster
set of the 1930’s and Hollywood’s elite of later generations. The
building was completely renovated in 1995. Travelers are invited
to stop in for lunch or dinner and see the original stone fireplace
in the main dining and sitting rooms.
#66 - Mile 3.9
Trout Lake
One of the larger lakes of the Chain at 1496 acres, Trout Lake
is widely known for its water clarity and amazing depths; some reports
citing depths as much as 120 ft. This is a spring-fed lake with
one upflow so strong that it will support a twenty pound weight!
The public access is on the west side of CSAH 66 just north
of Manhattan Beach.
#66 - Mile 4.3
Northgate Lane
Originally part of the Old Grade Road which was used to haul logs,
it is now a residential street about 3/4 mile long. It still connects
to the northbound arm of the Old Grade, but that portion is generally
traveled only by snowmobiles and ATV’s.
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