Visit The Leonidas Overlook For Panoramic Views Of Minnesota's Iron Range
By Betsy Rathburn|Published March 28, 2020
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Betsy Rathburn
Author
Betsy is a Minneapolis-based writer who's lived in Minnesota for 20 years. If you know of any amazing Minnesota restaurants, nature areas, or other attractions, feel free to let her know about them at brathburn@onlyinyourstate.com or on Twitter @betsyrathburn.
Northern Minnesota gets a lot of attention thanks to the North Shore, the Boundary Waters, and the countless state parks that offer beauty and recreation to visitors. But there are still places in the northern half of the state that go overlooked. The Iron Range, and the small communities within it, are one example. But these towns have a lot to offer, from local restaurants to little-known landmarks. One such landmark is the gorgeous Leonidas Overlook. This place offers views of the surrounding landscape for miles around, including an old mine that is now a manmade lake. Here’s what you need to know about visiting Leonidas Overlook:
The Leonidas Overlook is outside of Eveleth, Minnesota. This small town of 3,600 is about 60 miles northwest of Duluth.
Turn into the parking area, and you'll immediately see an enormous canyon stretched before you. Once a working mine, it has since filled in with water as nature slowly regrows around the former industrial area.
Still, the view is absolutely spectacular. Visit on a sunny day for the sight of endless sky stretching out over the tops of trees. On a clear day, you can see for 15 miles!
Some buildings, water towers, and other structures are visible in the distance. Even with nature closing in, there is evidence of human activity everywhere.
Next time you're up north, consider taking a trip to Eveleth. This interesting spot combines the beauty of nature with the influence of people. It's a fascinating - and gorgeous - look at how humans have shaped the land in Minnesota.
Have you ever been to Eveleth? Did you visit the old mine? There are even more mines you can visit in the Iron Range. Check out our article about the grand canyon of Minnesota to read about the Hull-Rust-Mahoning Mine.
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