You can stay busy right at Pehrson Lodge, or strike out and explore what the North Woods has to offer away from the resort. Here are some ideas...
Attractions
Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary 218-757-0172
A unique opportunity to observe wild black bears in their natural habitat. This is the best place to see North American black bears in their natural habitat. A viewing deck gives you outstanding views of the bears. Biologists are on hand to offer loads of information and answer questions. Hours are 5pm-8pm with viewing until dusk. Closed Mondays and during adverse weather. Located near Orr.
Soudan Underground Mine State Park 218-753-2245
This was Minnesota’s first iron ore mine which opened in 1882. Experience the life of a miner and learn why this mine was called the “Cadillac” of mines. Travel a half-mile underground and to learn about the first and richest iron mine. Everyone learns something from the experience! Located near Tower.
International Wolf Center 218-365-4695
Features wolves in their north woods habitat and a variety of exciting programs to help you learn and understand about the North American wolf. Located near Ely.
North American Bear Center 218-365-7879
Watch and learn about bears in their natural habitat both inside and outside viewing areas. Video exhibits and documentaries teach you all about bear behavior. Gift shop. Located near Ely
Bois forte Heritage and Cultural Museum 218-753-6017
Visit Atisokanigamig “Legend House” and experience the culture and heritage of the Bois Forte Band of Ojibwe. Located near Tower.
Dorothy Molter Museum 218-365-4451
Visit the cabins and museum of one of the north woods most colorful individuals, Dorothy Molter the “Root Beer Lady”. Dorothy carved out her legacy in the north woods by paddling, hiking, fishing and snow shoeing the area until her death.
Minnesota Discovery Center 218-254-7959/ 800-372-6437
Located in Chisholm, Minnesota this center showcases Minnesota’s Iron Range stories through artifacts, exhibits, oral histories, interpretive demonstrations and educational programs. Board the trolley for a 2.5-mile ride on the Mesabi Railway to the site of a former mining community.
United States Hockey Hall of Fame Museum 218-744-5167
A perfect place for the whole family. You will see a tribute to the great hockey coach Herb Brooks, try your skills on the replica rink, see a Zamboni and watch the 1980 Olympic Team take home the gold!
Fortune Bay Casino 218-753-8917
Features a wide selection of slots, blackjack tables and high stakes bingo. 25 minutes by car.
Activities
Hiking
Vermilion Falls
Take a drive about 45 minutes north towards Crane Lake to the Vermilion Falls for a short ½ mile hike along river to a cascading waterfall, very picturesque.
Vermilion Gorge
Hike the Vermillion Gorge for a 1-½ mile gravel trail of rugged landscape of granite cliffs and rock outcrops.
Astrid Lake
Astrid Lake has 7 miles of hiking trail connecting 4 small lakes.
Soudan Underground Mine State Park
Hike the trails in the park through a northern hardwood conifer forest and along the rim of the old open mine pits. Obtain a map at the park office for the 5 miles of hiking trails.
Orr Bog Walk
The Orr Bog Walk's half-mile long boardwalk surface provides nature enthusiasts of all ages and abilities with easy access to a wide variety of wetlands,
Black Bay Peninsula
Water access only hiking trail system on the northern shores of Lake Vermilion. An easy 2-mile interpretive trail, 3 plus mile advanced trail and connecting trails between the two loops. 3 dock sites and two-day use picnic areas. Total trail distance is 8 miles and includes beaver ponds, undisturbed forests and hilly terrain with beautiful views.
Biking
Bike the numerous rural roads that wander through scenic Northern Minnesota. Explore the Mesabi Trail, accessed in Virginia. The Holm Logging road, which is to the north on Hwy 24, is a mountain bike adventure. The Alvina Road, just to the north of the Pehrson Lodge driveway and across the street, is another mountain bike option.
Birding
Birding with Dee Kuder 218-750-0047 or 218-993-2445
dkuder@citlink.net Dee Kuder is authorized to operate in the Superior National Forest and Boundary Waters under a U.S. Forest Service Special Uses Outfitter Guide Permit: LAC6701.
Mini Golf
Pier 77 is about a 25-minute drive toward Tower on County Road 77.
Enjoy North Woods themed miniature golf and ice cream!
http://www.pier77minigolf.com/
Movie Theatres
Cook ‘s Comet Theatre: 218-666-5814
The longest continuous running movie theatre in the state of Minnesota. Stop in for a Carmel Latte as you browse the new fashions, accessories and home décor items. The Comet Coffee shop has the finest quality coffees, cappuccinos and teas that you can find. Movies are shown nightly at 7:00 pm, with 1PM matinees on rainy days by special request for groups of six or more.
Cinema 6/Mountain Iron Theatre: 218-741-2008
http://www.moviefone.com/theater/cec-cinema-6-mountain-iron/3159/showtimes
Take Hwy 53 south to Virginia, Take US-169 ramp toward Hibbing, turn right onto Hwy 169. Turn left onto CR-7/23rd Ave. W. Turn right onto Unity Dr. Turn right onto Enterprise Dr. S. 8426 Enterprise Dr. S. is on the right.
Take a look at our Area Activities Map for other recreation locations.
As you can see the Lake Vermilion area is full of wonderful vacation opportunities. We are a favorite among Minnesota Resorts in the midwest. If there is anything we can do to make your vacation more of what you want it to be, please call, we can arrange just about anything.