1982 Map of Silver Bay SW

About this map

Superior National Forest and Finland State Forest dominate this section of the Minnesota North Shore backcountry, where the landscape is defined by the complex drainage systems of the Beaver River and Split Rock River. In the early 1980s, industrial infrastructure began to leave a significant mark on this wooded terrain, most notably through the construction of the Milepost Seven Tailings Pond and its associated Mining Railroad Grade. These features illustrate the intersection of the region's taconite industry with the wilder stretches of the Arrowhead. Smaller scale landmarks like the Silver Bay Municipal Airport and a designated Snowmobile Trail highlight the transition between the working forest and local recreation. The map meticulously tracks the winding courses of Silver Creek and Thirtynine Creek, providing a detailed record of the hydrological network before subsequent land-use changes.