Don’t miss the fun of this spectacular season!

How do you make the most of this short and glorious season on the Minnesota’s Mesabi Iron Range? Here are some tips!

#1 Take a hike! The Mesabi Iron Range has a surprising number of trail systems to explore, all close enough to civilization that you’ll feel safe, but far enough removed that it’s still an adventure! Try these: Lookout Mountain-Laurentian Divide, Carey Lake Recreation Area or the Bird Lake Trails.

#2 Gas up and go! Get on over to the Off Highway Vehicle Recreation Area in Gilbert and take in some great views. Cross over to the Virginia expansion of the OHVRA and cross that big beautiful bridge into Virginia, where you can grab a bite and head back. The Ranger Trails in the Aurora, Biwabik and Hoyt Lakes area are something to see as well. New to riding? Get great info here.

#3 Put some miles on your bike! Explore the Mesabi Trail and take in some amazing views, like Rouchleau Mine beneath the Tom Rukavina Memorial Bridge, the rock-cut near Gilbert, or the floating dock in the Darwin Myers Wildlife Management Area near Embarrass. Request trail maps and plan your fall adventure!

#4 Make room for dessert! After all this activity, you’ve earned a treat! Drop into The Hive in Aurora, Canelakes Candies or The Sugar Shack in Virginia, Black Bear Bakery in Chisholm, or Sunrise Bakery in Hibbing to name a few for homemade deliciousness in the form of sweet snacks, sandwiches and much more.

#5 Dig Deeper As long as you’re here, take time to learn about our history and history-makers. The Hibbing Historical Society Museum, Minnesota Discovery Center, and the US Hockey Hall of Fame Museum are great places to start!

#6 Mark your calendar There are many fall events to choose from! From the Wirtanen Farm Fall Festival to First Thursdays Art Walk, and Honktoberfest to a Pumpkin Trolley, there’s a lot happening on the Range.