8 Unique Things to do in Minnesota’s Iron Range
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Minnesota’s Iron Range is a unique and beautiful part of the state that still flies under the radar. With stunning blue lakes that were former mines (i.e. pits), activities including mountain biking, paved trail biking, kayaking, riding ice bumper cars, ATV rides and more, the region should be on everyone’s travel lists. Below are my favorite unique things to do in Minnesota’s Iron Range. Which would you do first?!
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Where to Stay
Before getting into the activities in the area, you may be wondering where to stay. My favorite spot in the region is the Villas at Giant’s Ridge. They have great views of the lake, are beautifully furnished and have access to fun spots on site including pools (indoor and outdoor), a sauna, bike trails and great restaurants including The Wacootah Grille and The Burnt Onion.
Kayak crystal clear blue waters of Glen Mine Pit
Quite possibly the most beautiful place to kayak in Minnesota is at the Glen Mine pit. Canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards are available to rent, as are lifejackets and paddles. There is a shuttle service down to the Glen Mine Pit Lake launch included with your rental. Kayaking on shimmering blue water next to beautiful red rocks and towering trees is a unique experience you have to try!
Bike the Trails
If you’re up for a challenging adventure, check out the mountain bike trails at Redhead Mountain Bike park. The red dirt trails are stunning with green trees and beautiful blue water in the background. Make sure to wear darker colors so your clothes don’t stain! While the course was intermediate, we found it doable as beginners by going slower or walking parts that were more technical. Bikes can be rented through The Discovery Center if you don’t have your own.
Another great biking option in the region is the paved Mesabi Trail which is a 165-mile-long bike trail. The trail winds through stunning wooded areas, past historic mining operations and alongside beautiful lakes. We hopped on the trail right from Giant’s Ridge where is also where we rented bikes from.
Visit Lake Ore-be-gone
One of the most beautiful former mine pits you can visit for day by the water is Lake Ore-be-gone. There is a dock with great views you can fish from and a water inflatable park that is fun for all ages. Pack a picnic and make an afternoon of it.
Dine at Kunnaris Kitchen & Coffee House
For delicious farm-to-table style dining, Kunnaris has to be on your list. Everything we ordered tasted so fresh. I also loved the greenhouse and market on site you can purchase flowers and gifts from.
Visit Canelake’s Candies, Minnesota’s Oldest Candy Store
Canelake’s is a fun place to visit and transport back in time. As Minnesota’s oldest candy store, the Canelake’s store opened in 1917 with many of the candies having been handmade since 1905. This is a must stop for delicious treats and to experience history. My favorites are the turtles, mint candies and their classic hot air treats. Don’t forget to get an ice cream sundae at the counter!
Ride Ice Bumper Cars
One of only 27 locations worldwide, Virginia Minnesota is home to Ice Bumper Cars at the Iron Trails Motor Event Center. We had a blast trying out the electric cars that glide on ice. Check out the rental information here.
Have Brunch or Dinner on the patio at The Wacootah Grill
One of the best patio views in Minnesota is at The Wacootah Grill at Giant’s Ridge. Brunch provides a great view as the sun is rising higher in the sky over the lake while dinner time has great views as the sky turns colors with the suns setting behind you. The food is classic grill fare – my favorite was the walleye sandwich at dinner time.
Enjoy Coffee + Breakfast at The Hive
The Hive is one of my favorite coffee shops in the state because of their attention to detail in creating a whimsical setting and a wonderful menu. The food and drinks are delicious with baked goods made from scratch onsite. They have a wonderful kids play corner my sons stayed busy at while we waited for our food.
Attend a seasonal event
We were lucky to be visiting over the Land of the Loon festival and enjoyed meeting both vendors who were selling incredible arts and crafts and locals who were so friendly. There are various events throughout the year you can check out here.
Is Minnesota’s Iron Range on your travel list?
