For people who want to breathe the outdoors, yet want access to big city amenities, Elk River is an emerging small city where the Elk and Mississippi Rivers flow together on the fringe of the Twin Cities and where the heart is powered by its nature so you are energized and inspired to make a difference. The City of Elk River is located just 35 miles northwest of Minneapolis - St. Paul on the Mississippi River and is the county seat of Sherburne County. The city covers an area of 44 square miles which makes it one of the largest land based cities in the state. Elk River is home to more than 23,000 residents and is comprised of residential, commercial, retail, and industrial businesses. The city continues to develop while at the same time retains its historical perspective and small town flavor. Highways 10, 169, 101 and nearby Interstate 94 provide fast and easy access to the greater metropolitan area of the twin cities. Elk River received the designation of “Energy City” by the Minnesota Environmental Initiative in October of 1997 and in 2008 was designated as a Minnesota Energy City by the State Legislature.