Redhead Mountain Bike Park: A Minnesota Mountain Bike Park Surrounded by History

Just one hour north of Duluth, MN, land that was mined for iron ore decades ago has been reclaimed for recreation. Surrounded by history, Redhead Mountain Bike Park makes use of the dramatic elevation in the former mine even as active mining takes place less than one mile away.

With 25 miles of incredible trails winding through forest and coursing along the edge of “the mine pit,” Redhead offers thrills for bikers and hikers alike. Gorgeous mine lakes hundreds of feet deep are filled with clear springwater. They’re perfect for a dip or paddle.

But when you’re here, don’t just ride and run. Be sure to explore the area and get to know this historic place. Here’s a few ideas to get you started:

Minnesota Discovery Center is the museum of Iron Range history

Located just steps from the Redhead Trailhead, Minnesota Discovery Center is the largest Minnesota museum outside of the Twin Cities. Through indoor and outdoor exhibits, MDC examines the history of mining and the people who worked the mines. Other exhibits explore Native American history in the region, geology, and the Civilian Conservation Corps. Ride a vintage trolley to a former mine town, too. This museum makes a great stop if you have any curiosity at all!

Visit Thursday evenings all summer long for free admission and to enjoy weekly Bands, Brews and BBQ. And stop by the museum gift store for Redhead swag.

Hull Rust Mine View is a Must-See

There is no better place to learn about the modern mining process than Hull Rust Mine View. This region has been mined for over 140 years, and the view from this point in Hibbing helps put that into perspective. Being super-close to Redhead, it’s also a great way to understand the region’s relationship between mining and reclamation. Free admission, not to be missed!

Hockey Fans, Unite at the US Hockey Hall of Fame Museum!

There’s a whole other kind of history here on The Range: hockey history. Visit the country’s shrine to the sport at the US Hockey Hall of Fame Museum in nearby Eveleth. Even people who aren’t fans of the sport can appreciate the long tradition of the game and the many great players produced in Minnesota.

The Sweetest Stop on The Range

Canelake’s Candies in Virginia, just 15 miles from Redhead, is the state’s oldest candy store. In our opinion, it’s also the best! Every kind of homemade chocolate and hard candy you can imagine can be found here. There’s an old-fashioned soda fountain and ice cream, too. Take a look at the wide selection of souvenirs. This is a bit of history you’ll want to bring home !