Minnesota is full of wonderful attractions. You can visit state parks, countless lakes, old-growth forests, beaches, and beyond. And that doesn’t even scratch the surface of fun activities in our state. Today, we’d like to share somewhere a little more offbeat, but still well worth the trip: Minnesota’s miniature Grand Canyon! It may not be quite as majestic as the real deal, but it is impressive. Read on below to learn about this special spot and the overlook where you can see it up close.
Hull-Rust-Mahoning Mine is an open-pit mine in northern Minnesota. It is in Hibbing, about 75 miles north of Duluth.
Scott Eggert/Google
The mine is the largest mine of its kind in Minnesota. It is an open pit iron mine that has been in operation since 1895. Its long history earned it a place on the National Register of Historic Places in 1966.
Scott Eggert/Google
The mine is still operating and growing. In 2019, the former viewing area was moved so that the pit could expand.
Pat Lealos/Google
The different tiers of the pit mine, along with its reddish color, really does bring the Grand Canyon to mind. It is not nearly as big, but it certainly is impressive.
Greg Hodgson/Google
But how big is Hull-Rust-Maoning? Today, the mine is around 8 miles long, 3 miles wide, and more than 500 feet deep. It stands out on the otherwise relatively flat northern Minnesota landscape.
Brittany Furgala/Google
Though the mine is still operating, it is possible to visit it. The city of Hibbing established the Hull Rust Mine View, a tourist center that offers plenty to see, including close-up looks at giant mining trucks.
Karen and Doug Elser/Google
And of course, there are amazing views of the mine.
Scott Eggert/Google
Some parts are filled in with water, and there is vegetation growing over the earth again in some areas. It is truly an interesting sight that shows how nature and industry interact.
Scott Eggert/Google
If you’re looking to do something out of the ordinary in Minnesota, head up north to this miniature Grand Canyon. The view from the overlook is nothing short of spectacular.
Dale Kittelson/Google
Have you been to Hull-Rust-Mahoning? What did you think? Let us know in the comments! And if you’re interested in other parts of Minnesota’s mining history, check out our past article about the mine tour at Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park.
Scott Eggert/Google
Pat Lealos/Google
Greg Hodgson/Google
Brittany Furgala/Google
Karen and Doug Elser/Google
Dale Kittelson/Google
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Address: Hull–Rust–Mahoning Open Pit Iron Mine, Penobscot Road, Hibbing, MN 55746, USA
