Cities and Towns in Koochiching County, Minnesota

Founded in 1906, Koochiching County is one of 87 counties in the state of Minnesota. Historically, Koochiching County was formed from Itasca County. The city of International Falls is the county seat. With FIPS code of 71, Koochiching County has a population of 11,941 and area of 3,102.36 square miles (8,035 km²).

List of all cities in Koochiching County, MN alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Ardenhurst, MN	56661	218
Bergville, MN	56661	218
Big Falls, MN	56627	218
Birchdale, MN	56629	218
Black River, MN	56654	218
Dora Lake, MN	56661	218
Forest Grove, MN	56660	218
Gemmell, MN	56660	218
Grand Falls, MN	56627	218
Grattan, MN	56661	218
Happyland, MN	56653	218
Indus, MN	56629	218
International Falls, MN	56649	218
Intl Falls, MN	56649	218
Kabetogama, MN	56669	218
Kinghurst, MN	56661	218
Lindford, MN	56653	218
Littlefork, MN	56653	218
Loman, MN	56654	218
Manitou, MN	56629	218
Margie, MN	56658	218
Mizpah, MN	56660	218
Mozeppa, MN	56660	218
Nett River, MN	56627	218
Nore, MN	56661	218
Northome, MN	56661	218
Ranier, MN	56668	218
Ray, MN	56669	218
Shooks, MN	56661	218
South International Falls, MN	56679	218
Wildwood, MN	56661	218

Major Cities and Towns in Koochiching County, Minnesota

1. International Falls, Minnesota

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude & Longitude

• Area: 19.43 square miles
• Population: Approximately 6,300 (as of 2020)
• Zip Codes: 56649
• Latitude: 48.5745° N
• Longitude: 93.4022° W

City Location and History

International Falls is the county seat of Koochiching County and the largest city in the county. Located in the northernmost part of Minnesota, it lies on the border between the United States and Canada, right next to the Rainy River. The city earned the nickname “Icebox of the Nation” because of its extremely cold winters, which regularly see temperatures well below freezing. Originally settled in the late 19th century, International Falls grew rapidly with the development of the timber industry, particularly after the construction of the Great Northern Railway. The city was incorporated in 1909 and soon became a significant hub for the logging industry. Over the years, the timber industry has been a primary economic driver in the region, although tourism has also become an important part of the local economy due to the area’s natural beauty, with numerous lakes, forests, and access to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Today, International Falls remains a key gateway for travelers heading to Canada and to the Voyageurs National Park.

Major Schools and Landmarks

International Falls is served by the Independent School District 361, with Falls High School being the district’s main secondary school. The district is known for its strong academic programs, including an emphasis on vocational training, as well as athletic programs like hockey, which is particularly popular in this cold-climate town. One of the major landmarks in the city is the Voyageurs National Park, which is located just south of the city and offers a range of outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, hiking, and canoeing. Another key landmark is the Koochiching County Historical Museum, which showcases the area’s rich history, particularly its logging and Native American heritage. The International Falls City Park is also popular, featuring walking trails, sports fields, and access to the Rainy River. The Border Bowler is a local bowling alley, and the town’s annual Winterfest draws crowds for its cold-weather festivities and ice fishing events.

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2. Littlefork, Minnesota

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude & Longitude

• Area: 1.04 square miles
• Population: Approximately 600 (as of 2020)
• Zip Codes: 56653
• Latitude: 48.3450° N
• Longitude: 93.5328° W

City Location and History

Littlefork is a small city located in the northeastern corner of Koochiching County, situated along the Little Fork River, which flows into the Rainy River. The community was established in the early 20th century and incorporated in 1901, named after the river that runs through the area. Littlefork’s history is closely tied to the logging and milling industries, with early settlers using the river for transportation of timber. The construction of a railway line through the town further facilitated the transportation of wood products, making it a significant point for local trade and commerce. While logging and agriculture have long been staples of the economy, Littlefork has also become known for its natural beauty, with many residents and visitors attracted to the area’s abundance of forests, lakes, and rivers. The city remains small but has retained its rural charm, with a strong community spirit and an emphasis on outdoor recreation, particularly in the surrounding woodlands.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Littlefork is served by the Littlefork-Big Falls School District, with Littlefork-Big Falls High School being the central institution. The school district serves both Littlefork and the nearby community of Big Falls and is known for its small but engaged student body and strong extracurricular offerings, especially in sports and arts. One of the main landmarks in Littlefork is the Littlefork River, which offers opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. The Littlefork City Park provides residents and visitors with picnic areas, hiking trails, and access to the river. The nearby Big Falls in the nearby town of Big Falls is another scenic natural landmark that draws tourists, especially for hiking and photography. The Lost 40, a protected area of untouched forest located south of Littlefork, is also a popular place for nature enthusiasts. Littlefork’s local businesses are primarily family-owned and cater to the daily needs of residents, with a few seasonal spots catering to tourists.

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3. Big Falls, Minnesota

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude & Longitude

• Area: 0.85 square miles
• Population: Approximately 300 (as of 2020)
• Zip Codes: 56627
• Latitude: 48.3551° N
• Longitude: 93.4984° W

City Location and History

Big Falls is a small, rural town located in the northeastern portion of Koochiching County, situated along the Big Fork River. The town’s history dates back to the late 19th century when it was settled by homesteaders and loggers. It is named after the Big Falls, a series of waterfalls along the Big Fork River that were once used for log drives during the timber era. The town was established in 1901 and was incorporated shortly after. Like many communities in northern Minnesota, Big Falls grew up around the timber industry, with logging mills serving as the main economic drivers. Today, Big Falls is a quiet, small town with a population that fluctuates seasonally. The town remains close to the wilderness areas of Koochiching County, and it draws visitors who are interested in outdoor recreation, including fishing, hunting, and hiking, as well as those interested in the area’s history.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Big Falls is part of the Littlefork-Big Falls School District, with the Littlefork-Big Falls High School being the main educational institution serving both towns. The school is known for its tight-knit community and a focus on preparing students for both higher education and careers in local industries like forestry and agriculture. The Big Falls waterfall, located just outside of town, is the main natural landmark and a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The waterfall is part of the Big Fork River, which provides a backdrop for the area’s picturesque beauty. The town’s Big Falls City Park features a picnic area, walking trails, and a boat launch for those wishing to explore the river. Another notable landmark is the Lost 40, a tract of virgin forest that was never logged, providing visitors with a glimpse of the area’s natural, untouched beauty. Big Falls’ local businesses cater to the community’s basic needs, with a few seasonal businesses that provide services to tourists, especially in the summer months.

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4. Northome, Minnesota

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude & Longitude

• Area: 1.44 square miles
• Population: Approximately 250 (as of 2020)
• Zip Codes: 56661
• Latitude: 48.2893° N
• Longitude: 94.2113° W

City Location and History

Northome is a small town located in the central part of Koochiching County. It was established in the early 20th century and incorporated in 1914. Northome, like many towns in the region, owes its existence to the lumber industry and the expansion of the railroad, which brought settlers to the area. The town is surrounded by dense forests and is situated near the Big Fork River, making it a popular location for fishing, hunting, and other outdoor activities. In its early years, the town was a hub for logging and served as a central point for local trade. Today, Northome is known for its proximity to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and its role as a small gateway for visitors exploring this remote, pristine wilderness. Although small, Northome’s economy still reflects its rural roots, with agriculture, logging, and tourism playing important roles.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Northome is served by the Northome Public School District, with Northome High School being the primary educational institution. The school district offers a range of educational opportunities, with a focus on agriculture and natural resource management due to the region’s rural character. Major landmarks in Northome include its local parks and access to the Big Fork River, which offers numerous outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and canoeing. The town is also near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, a major national park that attracts outdoor enthusiasts from across the country. The Koochiching County Historical Society Museum, located nearby in International Falls, provides visitors with insight into the history of logging, the fur trade, and the indigenous peoples of the area. Northome’s economy continues to rely on small businesses, agriculture, and tourism, and the town’s rural charm makes it a peaceful retreat for those seeking solitude and outdoor adventure.