Canoeing and Kayaking in Minnesota: Iron Range, A Paddler’s Paradise
What happens when you mix 140 years of mining history with Mother Nature’s restorative touch? Well, you get some of the most unique destinations for canoeing and kayaking in Minnesota!
Welcome to the Iron Range, where former mine pits have evolved into a network of pristine lakes, some plunging hundreds of feet deep. Filled with pure glacial spring water, these reclaimed wonders offer kayakers and canoeists a chance to dip their paddles into living testaments of industrial rebirth. But if a more traditional lake is what you’re looking for, we have plenty of good options for you, too.
Let’s explore some of the best paddle destinations in Minnesota’s Iron Range.
P.S. You can request a boat access guide from Iron Range Tourism to make your plans easier!
Top Mine Pit Lakes for Paddling
Redhead Mountain Bike Park (Chisholm)
The former Godfrey Mine is now a paddler’s paradise encircled by mountain bike trails. With depths reaching over 200 feet, you’ll feel like you’re floating above an underwater canyon.
- Location: 1005 Discovery Drive, Chisholm, MN (Google). The Redhead Pit Lake is only accessible by the Minnesota Discovery Center Shuttle, on foot, bicycle, or ATV. Personal vehicles are prohibited on the ATV trail.
- Features:
- Crystal-clear water with visibility up to 40 feet
- Surrounded by red iron ore cliffs, creating stunning photo opportunities
- Connected to the extensive Redhead Mountain Bike Trail system
- Amenities:
- Canoe and kayak rentals available at the Minnesota Discovery Center
- Parking and easy water access
- Nearby picnic areas and restrooms
Buhl and Judson Pits (Buhl)
These smaller, tree-lined pits offer a more intimate paddling experience. It’s like having your own private oasis in the heart of the Iron Range.
- Location: In and around the city of Buhl
- Features:
- Multiple small lakes to explore
- Quiet, secluded atmosphere
- Great for bird watching and wildlife spotting
- Amenities:
- Public access points
- Some shore fishing opportunities
Lake Ore-Be-Gone (Gilbert)
Lake Ore-Be-Gone in Gilbert is a well-developed recreation area on the Mesabi Trail and ATV trails. A nearby campground serves visitors, as does the beach and pavilion. This lake is deep and clear and holds a few surprises at the bottom that scuba divers love to explore. An inflatable water park known as Splash Town is also located on this lake.
- Location: Southeastern side of Gilbert on Wisconsin Ave (Google)
- Features:
- Large lake with varied shoreline
- Clear water with interesting underwater features for snorkeling
- Connected to both the Mesabi Trail and ATV trails
- Amenities:
- Beach and swimming area
- Pavilion for picnics
- Campground nearby
- Splash Town inflatable water park (seasonal)
Mine Lake (Biwabik)
Enjoy the tranquility of this reclaimed pit while taking in the unique landscape shaped by decades of mining activity.
- Location: Near Biwabik, Sabin/Embarrass Mine Pit (trout) Lake, Hwy 138 and Mine Lake Road (Google)
- Features:
- Scenic views of surrounding hillsides
- Good fishing opportunities
- Close to golfing at Giants Ridge
- Amenities:
- Public boat launch
- Nearby lodging and dining options in Biwabik
St. James Pit (Aurora)
Rimmed by a paved trail, this pit offers great views of a former mining town.
- Location: St. James Mine Pit Public Water Access (Google)
- Features:
- Paved trail around the lake for combined biking and paddling trips
- Great for sunset paddles
- Amenities:
- Easy access points for launching kayaks and canoes
- Lake-side parking
Beyond the Pits: Natural Lakes to Explore
If you’re looking for a more traditional lake experience (as opposed to a reclaimed iron mine lake), the Iron Range doesn’t disappoint. Here are some lakes to check out.
Carey Lake (Hibbing)
Carey Lake, just south of Hibbing, is perfect for a leisurely paddle and picnic.
- Location: 5 miles from Hibbing (Google)
- Features:
- 38-acre lake surrounded by a 250-acre recreation area
- 1.7-mile paved trail around the lake
- Great for bird watching and wildlife viewing
- Amenities:
- Trails for biking and hiking in the adjacent park
- Swimming beach
- Boat access and a fishing pier
West Two Rivers Reservoir (Mountain Iron)
Combine paddling with camping for a full outdoor adventure.
- Location: Near Mountain Iron, about 9 miles southwest of Virginia (Google)
- Features:
- Large reservoir with numerous bays and inlets to explore
- Good fishing for walleye, northern pike, and panfish
- Scenic shoreline with a mix of forests and rocky outcrops
- Amenities:
- Nearby campground with full hookups
- Boat ramp and fishing pier
- Picnic areas and playground
Ely Lake (Eveleth)
Enjoy lakeside camping at Veteran’s Campground after a day on the water.
- Location: Just outside Eveleth (Google)
- Features:
- Clear waters ideal for paddling and fishing
- Relatively small lake, perfect for leisurely exploration
- Historic Eveleth mines nearby for additional sightseeing
- Amenities:
- Veteran’s Campground offers lakeside camping
- Public boat launch
- Nearby access to the Mesabi Trail
Whitewater and Colby Lakes (Hoyt Lakes)
Paddle by day, camp at Fisherman’s Point Campground by night.
- Location: In and near Hoyt Lakes, about 20 minutes south of Aurora (Google)
- Features:
- Two connected lakes offering varied paddling experiences
- Whitewater Lake is larger and more open, while Colby Lake is smaller and more sheltered
- Great fishing opportunities
- Amenities:
- Fisherman’s Point Campground on Colby Lake
- Boat ramps on both lakes
- Picnic areas and swimming beach on Whitewater Lake
These municipal lakes offer the best of both worlds – serene paddling experiences with nearby amenities and services.
Safety First: Paddle Smart
Before you dip your paddle, remember these essential tips:
- Register your watercraft: Visit the Minnesota DNR website for information on licensing and fees if you are bringing your own kayak or canoe.
- Know the rules: Familiarize yourself with Minnesota’s watercraft rules and regulations.
- Wear a life jacket: Safety should always be your top priority on the water.
- Check water conditions: Mine pit lakes can be very deep and cold. Be aware of sudden drop-offs and temperature changes when you paddle.
- Tell someone your plan: Always let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to return. A simple trick for a safer trip!
