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.

LegitLegend/Google

If you enter Eveleth from the east on Highway 37, continue through town. After just a few miles, you’ll eventually see a sign for the overlook.

Kim Y/TripAdvisor

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.

Robdro/TripAdvisor

The sloping hills leading up from the water - unlike anything that occurs naturally in Minnesota - are a clear sign that this was once an active mine.

RE M/TripAdvisor

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!

LegitLegend/Google

Some buildings, water towers, and other structures are visible in the distance. Even with nature closing in, there is evidence of human activity everywhere.

Kim Y/TripAdvisor

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.

Scott Onnen/Google

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.

LegitLegend/Google

Kim Y/TripAdvisor

Robdro/TripAdvisor

RE M/TripAdvisor

Scott Onnen/Google

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Address: Eveleth, MN 55734, USA