Lake Vermillion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park
Lake Vermillion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park
Lake Vermillion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park is a state park in Minnesota, distinguished by its approximately 10 miles of rugged Lake Vermilion shoreline and diverse forest habitats. Located south of the Superior National Forest, the park features old-growth pine stands, mixed forests, and unique geological formations like the Banded Iron Formation. This varied terrain provides opportunities for several sports like touring cycling and hiking. The park's landscape includes ancient lava flows and wetland complexes, contributing to its natural setting.
11
Routes
5
(3)
Average rating
109
People visited

19
riders
74.7km
03:48
500m
500m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.

19
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.

5
riders
40.5km
02:07
260m
260m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.

5
riders
40.5km
02:01
270m
270m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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19
hikers
6.56km
01:41
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

7
hikers
4.46km
01:13
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

3
hikers
2.78km
00:43
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(1)
11
riders
64.0km
03:54
400m
400m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

7
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(2)
6
riders
28.4km
01:44
200m
200m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

8
riders
92.9km
05:43
570m
570m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Lake Vermillion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking on over 5 miles (8 km) of trails, including the 2.5-mile (4 km) Hiking Club Trail Loop. Cycling is also popular, with connections to the paved Mesabi Bike Trail and 8 mountain biking trails within the park.
The park's main attractions include the historic Soudan Underground Mine, Minnesota's oldest and deepest iron mine. Natural features include approximately 10 miles (16 km) of rugged Lake Vermilion shoreline, old-growth pine stands, and unique geological formations like the Banded Iron Formation.
Yes, the park features over 5 miles (8 km) of hiking trails. Notable options include the 2.5-mile (4 km) Hiking Club Trail Loop, the West Tower Mine Trail, Cable Bay Loop, Wawa Trail, and Miner's Trail. Some trails may have uneven surfaces and wet conditions.
Cycling options include connections to the paved Mesabi Bike Trail, suitable for touring cyclists. For more rugged terrain, the park also features 8 mountain biking trails. These trails offer diverse experiences for different cycling preferences.
Yes, the park offers hiking routes suitable for families. Information on these trails can be found in guides such as Family-friendly hikes in Lake Vermillion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park. These routes often provide accessible terrain and scenic views.
The Soudan Underground Mine is Minnesota's oldest, deepest, and richest iron mine, and a U.S. National Historic Landmark. While underground tours were suspended due to a 2024 weather event, surface tours are available. Underground tours are projected to reopen Memorial Day weekend 2026.
The park is home to significant geological features, including the Banded Iron Formation, accessible via the Hiking Club Trail. The Soudan Iron Formation is another notable site. Ancient lava flows and wetland complexes created by beaver activity also contribute to the park's unique geology.
Routes in Lake Vermillion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park have received positive feedback on komoot. There are 3 routes listed with an average rating of 5.0 out of 5 stars. More than 70 visitors have shared their experiences in the area.
Yes, komoot offers guides to help plan visits to the park. These include Cycling in Lake Vermillion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park and Family-friendly hikes in Lake Vermillion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park.
The official website for Lake Vermillion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park is Minnesota DNR Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park website. The park's phone number is +1-218-300-7000 for inquiries.
The park provides opportunities for hike-in campsites, offering a more immersive wilderness experience. These sites allow visitors to stay overnight within the park's natural environment.

