2019 Map of Balsam

About this map

Balsam and the surrounding wetland-rich terrain of Aitkin County are defined by a complex network of waterways and glacial lakes. The convergence of the W Savanna River and E Savanna River into the main Savanna River channel illustrates the hydrographic importance of this region. To the south, the Prairie River and Tamarack River wind through low-lying areas, eventually connecting toward the northern reaches of Big Sandy Lake. This landscape is marked by numerous named bodies of water including Wolf Lake, Wakefield Lake, and the curiously named Rat House Lake. Transportation is facilitated by a grid of rural routes such as Savannah Rd and Co Hwy 14, providing access to remote locations like Loon Lake and Little Savanna Lake. The map reveals a high density of marshes and swamps, characteristic of this part of Minnesota before reaching the more developed areas to the south.