Parks
With
access to millions of acres of public waters and wilderness, it might not seem
likely that locals would support an extensive municipal park system, But that's
just what has occurred in the Central Iron Range, despite its location near the
southeastern border of the 3.9 million-acre Superior National Forest and
proximity to several state forests, McCarthy Beach State Park and dozens of
well-known wildlife viewing and recreational areas. CIRI communities are home
to thousands of acres of thriving city parks and recreation areas, all of which
play a significant role in the long-term success of the region.
To promote
healthy lifestyles and green transit, a hiking/biking trail system will eventually link sites within each community,
including schools, community centers and parks, to the already-established
Mesabi Trail and recreational areas including