Anyone who knows a little about Minnesota history is aware of the many mines that mark northern Minnesota. Some of these Iron Range mines are still operating, but others are long abandoned. One of those abandoned mines is Hill Annex, a century-old mine north of Calumet in Itasca County, Minnesota. Read on to learn about this mine-turned-natural-oasis and its fascinating history.

Hill Annex Mine State Park is a uniquely beautiful place that preserves the abandoned open-pit Hill-Annex Mine. You'll find it at 880 Gary St., Calumet, MN 55716.
Aaron Engelsrud/Flickr
In the park's museum, visitors can about the history of the old mine. It first opened in 1913 and produced 63 million tons of ore until operatinos ended in 1978.
Minnesota DNR
Once the sixth-largest iron mine in Minnesota, today much of the century-old equipment still stands on the park's grounds.
Minnesota DNR
Visitors can visit the old laboratory, maintenance shop, community club, and more.
Minnesota DNR

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After you're done exploring the mine's history, it's time to see the mine itself. After it closed in the late '70s, the mines that once pumped out water stopped working.
Brett Whaley/Flickr
Water flooded back in, creating a large manmade lake. As operations ceased, the landscape began to heal.
stpaulgirl/Flickr
Today, the abandoned mine plays host to visiting birds such as loons and gulls. Trees and other greenery sprouted back up.
Minnesota DNR
A visit to this abandoned mine is a wonderful way to explore Minnesota history and enjoy the park's uniquely beautiful manmade landscape.
Minnesota DNR

Have you ever visited the Hill-Annex mine? Share what you thought about this abandoned mine in the comments below!

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880 Gary St., Calumet, MN 55716