CR 16 / FFH 11 serves as a direct east–west route in northeast Minnesota between U.S. Highway 53 and Silver Bay.

The boundary line between Saint Louis and Lake counties is near Fairbanks.

The communities of Bassett, Petrel, Brimson, Rollins, Toimi, and Wales are all located near Fairbanks.

A post office called Fairbanks was established in 1905, and remained in operation until 1953.

[2] The community was named for Charles W. Fairbanks, 26th Vice President of the United States.