Minnesota today is full of fascinating animals in water, land, and air. We have plentiful walleye, mysterious Canada lynx, and majestic bald eagles – to name a few. But what about the creatures that once roamed this land long before humans? There is evidence that millions of years ago, when the state was covered by a long and ancient seaway, dinosaurs stomped the lands of northern Minnesota. Today, you can still visit the mystical place where the last Minnesotan dinosaur fragment was discovered.
Hill Annex Mine State Park is a fascinating look at Minnesota’s mining history. You’ll find it on the Iron Range of northern Minnesota, in the small town of Calumet.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
The mine first began operations in 1913.
Brett Whaley/Flickr
It produced millions of tons of iron ore until its eventual closure. In 1988, it became a state park.
stpaulgirl/Flickr
While the park contains no hiking trails, it is still located in a beautiful part of Minnesota. Forest spreads out in every direction, making you feel like you’re in the true wilderness.
stpaulgirl/Flickr
The enormous water-filled pit only adds to the magic of the experience. It’s amazing to see how mining changed Minnesota’s landscape.
momof2boys_7/TripAdvisor
And when you remember that dinosaurs likely roamed here, you’ll be awestruck.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
In 2015, a 1.5-inch claw bone was found in the mine. Scientists determined it was 90 million years old, and likely belonged to a creature similar to the Velociraptor.
Reigh LeBlanc/Flickr
More research - and more fossils - are needed to truly map Minnesota’s place in Earth’s ancient history, especially when it comes to dinosaurs. Only three dinosaur fossils have ever been found in Minnesota.
Mike Beauregard/Flickr
In the meantime, guests are welcome to visit Hill Annex Mine State Park. Besides an interesting museum and mine tour, guests have access to a fossil tour. Search for dinosaurs from the Cretaceous period - and keep what you find!
Roy Luck/Flickr
Hill Annex State Park is home to what remains of the dinosaurs that once roamed the Land of 10,000 Lakes. With opportunities to dig up some bones of your own, why not visit this fascinating park surrounded by beautiful landscape?
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Brett Whaley/Flickr
stpaulgirl/Flickr
momof2boys_7/TripAdvisor
Reigh LeBlanc/Flickr
Mike Beauregard/Flickr
Roy Luck/Flickr
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