Finland Cooperative

Jacob H.

This is a century-old business, but it provides the essentials you need to live in the area. They not only sell groceries, but gardening supplies, electrical supplies, plumbing supplies, automotive parts, gasoline, maps, rubber boots, etc. Think of it as an old-time general store (in fact, the current building has that as its sign), and you get the right idea.

The only down sides are the cramped aisles and small variety -- they have a lot of products, but not many different brands, as fits their patrons' needs. The staff are friendly and helpful, though, so I strongly encourage a stop.

If you are in the area, I recommend buying a Superior Forest map at the co-op. They cost around $10 (I got a waterproof one), but they will show the trails and dirt roads that will help you figure out where things are. On-line maps are not reliable at placing things in this part of Minnesota; for example, this co-op is actually a mile or two south of the bridge over the Baptism river.