St. Louis County (2006 pop. est. 196,067) in northeastern Minnesota stretches from the international port city of Duluth to the Canadian border. It encompasses much of the eastern Iron Range, including Hibbing and the Quad Cities (Eveleth, Gilbert, Mountain Iron, Virginia) plus Ely—a popular gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

Major industries include mining, wood and paper products, shipping/transportation, health care and tourism. The region offers convenient access to air, rail, seaway and highway transportation. It features excellent K-12 and higher education, a thriving medical community and outstanding recreational opportunities.