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A longstanding symbol of strength and vitality, Bunyan and his trusty sidekick, Babe the Blue Ox, are said to be responsible for Minnesota's 10,000 lakes, the Great Lakes, the Grand Canyon and other natural wonders. 


Several cities claim to be the birthplace of American folklore's largest lumberjack, including 

claims his "birth certificate" hangs in the city clerk's office

A look at Bunyan territory in 1939


Among other things, festivalgoers can snap a selfie with the towering Bunyan statue in town. 


It's just one of the many Bunyan and Babe statues that dot the United States. In honor of the big guy's big day, here are a few places you can spot the larger-than-life icon and Babe around the country this summer. 

8 Minnesota historical road trips to take this summer

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Today, several statues of the larger-than-life lumberjack dot the United States. Celebrate National Paul Bunyan Day by planning a road trip to visit as many as you can.

John Enger | MPR News

Paul Bunyan statue, Brainerd Welcome Center

Meg Martin | MPR News

Courtesy Paul Bunyan Land

Courtesy Mall of America/Screen shot via YouTube

Courtesy Paul Bunyan Logging Camp Museum

Courtesy Jimmy Emerson | Creative Commons via Flickr

Courtesy Cross Insurance Center

Paul Bunyan and Babe statue at Castle Rock

Courtesy Troy B. Thompson | Creative Commons via Flick

Courtesy Jimmy Emerson | Creative Commons via Flickr 2014

Courtesy Jamie | Creative Commons via Flickr 2009

Courtesy marquams.mama.jl | Creative Commons via Flickr 2008

Lucette Kensack statue in Hackensack, Minn.

13 places you can see Paul Bunyan this summer

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