Work underway for the historical mine tour across NE Minnesota

Work continues on the historical mine pit tour in northeast Minnesota. Organizers have identified 44 spots across four counties to feature.

Videography has been completed, and editing is underway.

Meg Christianson, from Visit Grand Rapids, told us, "Post-COVID, we want to make sure people know about off the beaten path locations and communities that we have. They have a lot of vibrancy. They have a rich culture and history. They have a lot of fun things to do and see. Old mine areas that have been reclaimed give us wonderful hiking, biking, paddling, and fishing areas."

For the interview, WDIO stopped by the Larue mine pit in Nashwauk. Many know about the Hawkins overlook, which is the first mine in Itasca County. Another popular one is the O’Brien reservoir.

Another next step is to collect information for the interpretive panels that will be at the spots.

"It’s a way for people to understand why a community even exists today, and then allows them to see what the community has to offer," explained Sarah Carling, regional director, Community and Economic Development Associates.

If you’d like to submit your Range history or story, contact Sarah Carling at: sarah.carling@cedausa.com or Meg Christianson at: megan@visitgrandrapids.com

The hope is to have the tour done next spring.