Lake Vermilion State Park
The Newest Minnesota State Park
For additional information: Minnesota DNR Lake Vermilion State Park information
Funding for a new State Park on Lake Vermilion was included in the budget agreement reached by the State Legislature and signed by Governor Pawlenty on May 18, 2008.
On June 8, 2010, the State of Minnesota closed a 3,000-acre land transaction with U.S. Steel, establishing Minnesota's newest state park.
Together with the existing Soudan Underground Mine State Park, the new park will include almost 10 shoreline miles on Lake Vermilion.
Tours are now being offered. Boat tours are on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday at 10 AM and 3 PM. Hiking/Driving tours are on Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday at 11 AM and 2 PM. Allow 2 hours for either tour. Call 218-753-2245 for reservations.
The following information is current as of July, 2011:
By Land
The Alaska Shaft trail (originating from Soudan Underground Mine State Park) is now open for hiking into the new Lake Vermilion State Park site. The 2.4 mile hiking loop includes a spur on the northeast corner that ends in a beautiful overlook into the rolling terrain of Minnesota's newest state park. Visit the Soudan Underground Mine SP headquarters or visitor center for a map.
By Water
A boat-up picnic area is now open in the northeast corner of the park in Armstrong Bay. By water, look for an old boathouse and the classic brown-and-gold Lake Vermilion State Park sign. The area has a fire ring, picnic tables and portable toilet.
Coming Soon
Hunting Opportunities
Lake Vermilion State Park was open for firearm deer hunting by permit in 2010. Fifty (50) permits were available (Area 900) for a special hunt between Nov. 6 and Nov. 14. Information for 2011 has not yet been released.
Winter Trail Opportunities
DNR Parks and Trails staff maintained temporary snowmobile for the 2010-2011 winter season. More information for this winter will be released this fall.
