Nevis may have a population of less than 400, but what it lacks in people it makes up for in fish. Sitting at the eastern end of Lake Belle Taine, and with 90 lakes within a 10-mile radius, Nevis attracts anglers from all over the world. But this historic small city, which grew up around a railway station in the late 1800s and early 1900s, isn’t just about the inhabitants of the waters. It has plenty to offer lovers of more unusual animals, as well as hikers and music fans.
Find the Fish
- Nicknamed the Land of 10,000 Lakes, it’s no surprise that Minnesota is a big fishing destination. But Nevis has its own special draw -- the tiger muskellunge, or muskie. The carnivorous fish is one of the biggest and most elusive in Minnesota, and has been known to eat ducklings and small muskrats. A trip to Nevis isn’t complete without a photo next to the 30-foot, 6-inch sculpture proclaiming itself “The World’s Largest Tiger Muskie,” which sits in Muskie Park. Try catching the real thing by taking a charter with one of Nevis’s local guides, who include Jason Durham, Clarence Berndt and Josh Hagemeister.
Tour the Ranches
- Minnesota is one of the nation’s leading agricultural states, producing the most sugar beets, oats, sweet corn, green peas and turkeys in the country. But Nevis also has farms raising more unusual livestock, and they’re open to visitors. Hop on a bus tour of Northland Bison Ranch to see the majestic beasts wandering the fields and learn about the animal, its important place in Native American culture and how it fits into today’s world. Nevis is also home to the Emu Ranch that runs 90-minute, reservation-only walking tours from May until Labor Day. See some of the farm’s 400 birds, visit the chick and yearling barns and learn about the history of the emu in America.
Take the Trail
- The Heartland State Trail follows the track of a disused rail line that was once used by the logging industry. The 49-mile path, which runs between Park Rapids and Cass Lake, passes right through the heart of Nevis. Take a stroll or bike ride along the paved trail -- bikes can be rented at From the Farm Home Décor. Walk or ride through the forests, enjoy views of Lake Belle Taine and look out for whitetail deer, porcupines and bald eagles. The trail goes right through Muskie Park, which is one good place to stop for a picnic.
Step into Summer
- With thick snow and freezing temperatures for much of the winter, residents and visitors to Nevis make the most of the balmy summer weather by getting out for some fun in the sun. The Muskie Days music festival takes place over two days at the end of July, featuring more than 30 bands on multiple outdoor stages. On the last Friday and Saturday of August, Nevis celebrates its Scandinavian heritage with Uff Da! Days. The festivities kick off with a treasure hunt for a Norwegian coin, and other highlights include a parade, street dancing, games and food vendors with Swedish meatballs aplenty. Other summer events include the Pig Races in Muskie Park, where sponsors adopt pigs to run against each other, and the 1950s and '60s Baby Boomer Bop, with music, dancing and a retro car show.
