Minnesota is home to some pretty incredible state parks. From the most visited parks like Gooseberry Falls or Itasca to lesser-known spots, there are gorgeous nature areas in every corner of the state. They are all great, but there is a new one that you’ll want to move to the top of your state park bucket list. Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park is Minnesota’s first new state park since the early 1990s. Take a look:
Given the park’s name, it should come as no surprise that it is located right on the banks of Lake Vermilion. This scenic lake is one of the most beautiful in the country, and the new state park makes it easier than ever to visit.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Lake Vermilion is in northern Minnesota, about 225 miles north of the Twin Cities. Luckily, there are 33 campsites available for overnight stays.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Overnight visitors and day trippers alike will have access to 5 miles of trails through old-growth pines and other mixed forest.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Hikes will take you above for a bird’s-eye view of the 39,000-acre Lake Vermilion and its many islands.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Vermilion isn’t the only lake on the state park grounds, however. A few much smaller lakes, such as Lake Dewey and Lily Lake, are in the area. Picnic spots near these areas make them great places to rest.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Other trails will take you to spots that highlight the area’s mining history. The West Tower Mine Trail is only .2 miles, but it leads to the deepest mine pit in the area. It’s so deep that snow often sticks around into June.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
The iron formations are another fascinating thing to see at the park. They wavy lines are as interesting as they are beautiful.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Of course, you don’t want to leave without going below ground. The No. 8 shaft will take you down to where miners worked when Soudan was an active mine.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Beyond the mining carts and other below-ground facilities, you’ll get to see where miners actually drilled and removed rock.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Back at the surface, there are many mine buildings to explore, such as the drill shop. This is where equipment was repaired when damaged or dulled.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
All in all, Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park is a beautiful look back into Minnesota’s mining history. Find the park at 1302 McKinley Park Road in Soudan.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Do you have lans to visit this new state park? Let us know down below. For more amazing state parks to visit, check out our list of 11 of Minnesota’s most under-appreiated state parks.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
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