Grand Rapids Area Paint-Out Schedule

2026 schedule

September 9 - Pokegama Dam 34385 Hwy 2 W, Grand Rapids, MN 55744

The Pokegama Dam Recreation Area sits on the Mississippi River just 2 miles west of Grand Rapids, surrounded by mixed hardwood and red pine forest. Paint the dam, the river flowing below, or the wooded riverbank. An Army Corps of Engineers site with sweeping river views — early fall foliage makes this a particularly beautiful September session.

Host: Ken Johnson

Directions: From Grand Rapids, take Highway 2 west for 2 miles. Turn left at the signs and follow to the recreation area.

Parking: Park in the main parking lot.

Restroom: Vault toilet access in campground.

September 16 - Forest History Center 2609 Co Rd 76, Grand Rapids, MN 55744

One of our favorites spots throughout the seasons, the Forest History Center features a recreated 1900s-era logging camp, a moored river wanigan (floating cook shack), a 1930s Forest Service patrolman's cabin, a 100-foot fire tower with views of the Mississippi River and the forest canopy, and self-guided nature trails. The wooded grounds, historic structures, bog walk, draft horses and riverside setting make for a rich variety of painting subjects. Note: While the logging camp is closed for interpretation for the season, we will have access to the buildings for drawing and fire tower access weather permitting. There is no fee to participate, however you are welcome to make a donation and you are welcome to bring a lunch and stay for the day. No oil or acrylic painting in the buildings.

Hosts: Mary Feser and Sandy Schildt

Directions: From Grand Rapids, take Hwy 169 to Golf Course Road, go west on Golf Course Road to County Road 76, follow about 1/4 mile to the entrance.

Parking: Park in the main parking lot.

Restroom: There is a Port-a-Potty in the logging camp and additional facilities in the museum.

September 23 - Private Residence

A private residence near Bello Lake Camp Road in Bigfork, offering a serene northwoods setting with lakes, forest, and the beauty of late September color. One of the more remote and scenic private locations of the season. Registration required for full directions and access.

Directions: Near Bigfork, MN — full directions provided upon registration.

Parking: On-site — details provided upon registration.

Restroom: On location.

September 30 - Jacobson Farm 11702 Co Rd 3, Grand Rapids, MN 55744

A late-September farm session with harvested fields, weathered outbuildings, and the golden hues of northern Minnesota's autumn. There will be pumpkins, gourds, and all the "fall vibes" of a farm.

Directions: From Grand Rapids, take River Road (County Road 3) approximately 15 miles to Jacobson Farm (on the right). Watch for signs on the south (right hand) side of the road.

Parking: Follow signs and directions.

Restroom: Available on location.

October 7 - Wilkus Cabin 36959 Wabana Road, Grand Rapids, MN 55744

Paint the Tamaracks on this wilderness oasis of private property near Wabana Lake. There is a pond view with tamarack trees and a pine forest as well as a short walk to a small dam. Painting will be followed by lunch at the Wilkus Residence.

Directions: From Grand Rapids, take Hwy 38 to Wabana Lake Road.  Turn right (east) on Wabana Lake Road approximately 8 miles and turn left (north) on Spider Lake Road/Wabana Road. The property is 1/3 of a mile on the left.

Parking: Near the cabin and along the driveway.

Restroom: Outhouse with composting toilet.

After the session: We will enjoy lunch at the Wilkus cabin (12 minutes down the road) after painting. Mike will provide soup and bread. You are welcome to bring something to share if you'd like.

October 14 - Tioga Recreation Area 6859 Tioga Beach Rd, Cohasset, MN 55721

A dramatic 500-acre former iron ore mining site transformed into a world-class recreation destination area. Rolling terrain, steep rock outcroppings, a crystal-clear mine pit lake, tall pines, and sweeping views from the bluffs. Limited access to bike trails for safety, but there is access to a pond and mine tailings a short walk from the parking area.

Directions: From Grand Rapids, head west on Hwy 2 toward Cohasset. Turn south on County Road 63 and follow signs to Tioga Recreation area (past the boat landing) on the right..

Parking: There are two parking options. To the right is the Tioga Pit and beach area, to the left is the mountain bike trailhead. We will meet at the Tioga Pit parking area.

Restroom: Port-a-Potties are available at the mountain bike parking lot.

October 21 - Crystal Lake 1010 N. Pokegama Ave, Grand Rapids, MN 55744

If the weather holds, plan to paint along the shores of Crystal Lake and/or the Itasca County Fairgrounds for our final paint-out of the year followed by a pot-luck lunch hosted by Nelia French. A short walk to the lake for cattails, water tower, and small park area, or drive a short distance to the fairgrounds for white pines and lake views. Bring one of your favorite art pieces from the year for a little "show and tell" at our pot-luck following the paint-out.

Directions: From the intersection of Hwy 2 and Hwy 169, take Pokegama Ave North to Crystal Lake.

Parking: Street parking along Pokegama Ave.

Restroom: On location.

Note from Nelia: “We meet from 9am-12noon. You are welcome to bring a lunch, or we may go out for lunch if we are in an urban area. As always, dress for the weather as paint-outs will occur rain or shine. Be prepared for sun, ticks, and mosquitoes. A couple of us really like the Thermacell brand for a non-deet option to keep some of the bugs away. Water and snacks are always a good idea. You are welcome to invite friends and spread the word. Although most of us paint, it can also be nice for folks to get out and draw too. A wide variety of mediums and all skill levels are welcome.”