🪓🐾 Paul Bunyan Road Trip with Simba the Adventure Pup: Legendary Stops Across Minnesota! 🌲🚐

On this mini series of Northwoods adventures, Simba the Adventure Pup and I set out to follow the larger-than-life footsteps of Paul Bunyan and his loyal sidekick Babe the Blue Ox — and what a journey it was! From towering statues to legendary gravesites, this dog-friendly folklore trail was packed with quirky Americana, scenic detours, and plenty of paws-on fun.

📍 Stop 1: Paul Bunyan Park – Bemidji, MN

Our legendary quest began in Bemidji, home to the iconic lakeside statues of Paul and Babe. These 1937 statues are one of the most photographed roadside attractions in the U.S. and an absolute must-visit!

We also explored:

• Niiemii (“Dancing Indian”) sculpture

• The majestic statue of Chief Shaynowishkung (Chief Bemidji), adding cultural depth to this lakeside park

🐶 Simba’s Take: Loved the lake breeze and the wide-open green space — tail wags all around!

📍 Stop 2: Paul Bunyan’s Grave – Kelliher, MN

From Bemidji, we ventured deeper into the forest to visit Paul Bunyan Memorial Park in Kelliher, where legend says Paul Bunyan was laid to rest. The monument is HUGE — fitting for a man of Paul’s stature — and surrounded by pine trees and peaceful trails.

🌲 A truly fun and offbeat stop with a touch of mythical mystery.

🐶 Simba’s Take: Quiet, woodsy, and perfect for a curious golden retriever to sniff around.

📍 Stop 3: World’s Largest Paul Bunyan Statue – Akeley, MN

We wrapped up our tall tale trek in Akeley, where a massive kneeling Paul Bunyan statue makes for one of the best selfie ops in Minnesota. This Paul is nearly 30 feet tall and built so you can sit in the palm of his hand — no lie!

📸 Tip: Visit early to beat the crowds and get the best light for photos!

🐶 Simba’s Take: Big Paul, bigger smells — and a great spot to stretch our legs!

🎥 Watch the Video


We captured every roadside wonder, trail pawprint, and myth-filled moment in a fun travel vlog. From quirky statues to peaceful trails, this journey brought American folklore to life in the best way.

🪓 Whether you're chasing history, roadside oddities, or just looking for an epic road trip with your pup, the Paul Bunyan Trail delivers.

🚐 Life on Paws and Wheels

This adventure is part of our full-time RV journey across the U.S., where Simba and I explore the country’s most scenic, offbeat, and dog-friendly places — one paw at a time.

👉 LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit the 🔔 to follow more travels, tails, and tales with Ash & Simba!

Location: Minnesota, USA

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