The Mesabi Trail is a paved walking and biking trail through the Iron Range in Northeast Minnesota that goes from Ely to Grand Rapids, a distance of about 132 miles. The trail goes through more than 25 communities. One morning we drove up Highway 169 out of Virginia that more or less parallels the trail and stopped at several interesting sites you could see as you follow the trail.
In Virginia, the Rochleau Mine overlook overlooks not only the pit for the mine but the town of Virginia (left photo). George spotted the building where his father worked (at the top of the hill in the right photo).
In Chisholm, you are greeted by a giant iron statute. It is the third-largest freestanding statute in the nation and commemorates the iron ore miners of the Mesaba, Cuyuna and Vermilion Iron Ranges of northeastern Minnesota. It is 81 feet high. Right across the road is the Discovery Center that explores Iron Range mining history and a short distance in town is the Minnesota Mining Museum. Jaimie is standing in one of the giant scoops, one of the many pieces of giant mining equipment on the grounds.
Hibbing was our third stop. The Greyhound Bus Line started in Hibbing to transport miners. Now you can visit the Greyhound Bus Museum and see vintage buses plus learn more about this American icon.
Up the road is the Hull Rust Mahoning Mine View overlooking what is the biggest operating open pit iron ore mine in the world. Since 1895 more than 1.4 billion tons of earth have been removed, and more than 800 million gross tons of iron ore have been shipped from the mine. Iron ore production on the Range was at its peak during World War II.
In the relocated town of Hibbing (the town was moved in order to expand the pit), is the house where Bob Dylan, (Bob Zimmerman), grew up. You can obtain a copy of the Bob Dylan walking tour as well as a walking tour of other historic buildings in Hibbing. Downtown, Zimmy's Restaurant has a collection of Dylan memorabilia and copies of the walking tour.
Each of the towns along the Mesaabi Trail has something of interest. The trail takes you through pretty woods between towns. Some of the trail is still planned, most complete. A permit is required - $15 for an annual permit, $5 for a three-day permit. You can view or download the map. Click on it for a larger version. Shuttle service is also available for a fee so you can park the RV at one spot and get a ride back from your destination. It's a great way to see the countryside plus the neat things that each town has to offer. Jaimie Hall Bruzenak






