The Lake Country Scenic Byway Association is now seeking national designation as a "gateway to adventure."
The application process is underway. If approved, the 88-mile byway would join seven national designees in the state, the Paul Bunyan Trail near Brainerd most recently earning the distinction. Minnesota is home to more national scenic byways than any other state.
The Lake Country Scenic Byway, running from Walker to Detroit Lakes, with a spur to Itasca State Park, is one of 22 state routes.
Mark Anderson, Minnesota Department of Transportation scenic byways coordinator, said the proposal is "well positioned to be successful, considering the strong organization coordinating the effort," referring to the Lake Country Scenic Byway Association, which met this week at Itasca State Park.
The group, he noted, has developed "effective marketing strategies" since the byway's designation as a state corridor.
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Deadline for applications is October 2007 with a decision by the national review board tentatively expected in April 2008.
"Determine your primary intrinsic quality," advised Linda Ulland, of the University of Minnesota Central Region Partnership in Staples. She contributed to the Paul Bunyan designation process.
Identify your "national story," she counseled. The Headwaters of the Mississippi and its rich history, is likely to be the focal point in the designation proposal.
The Paul Bunyan Trail's intrinsic quality had initially been identified as recreation, but the folklore of the legendary lumberjack was also interjected, adding a new dimension.
Determine points of interest, she said, noting these may include up to 15 sites, two events supporting the "primary intrinsic quality."
Gather photos, Ulland advised, with one that embodies the Lake Country Scenic Byway. For the Paul Bunyan, that was bike riders, she said.
Drive the byway, she also suggested, to know the length of time required and develop a map, with graphic support.
"How does your byway add to the collection?" Ulland asked the association to consider. "Start building your case."
