Soudan Underground Mine Tour — Soudan, Minnesota

Discover the Soudan Underground Mine Tour in Minnesota

Located in Soudan, Minnesota, the Soudan Underground Mine Tour takes visitors deep underground into Minnesota’s oldest and one of its most significant iron ore mines. This guided experience descends half a mile below the surface, allowing guests to explore preserved mining tunnels and learn how iron ore was extracted in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Why it’s special:
This is not a factory tour—it’s a true underground industrial heritage experience. Visitors ride a mine cage elevator into authentic mining levels, walk original tunnels, and see drilling, blasting, and ore removal methods exactly where miners once worked.

History/Story of the Soudan Underground Mine

The Soudan Mine opened in 1884 and played a critical role in Minnesota’s Iron Range, producing high-grade iron ore for nearly 80 years. After closing in 1962, the site was preserved as a state historic site and later gained scientific importance as the home of underground physics experiments. Today, it is operated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources as part of Lake Vermilion–Soudan Underground Mine State Park.

What You’ll See & Do on the Soudan Underground Mine Tour

• Descend 2,341 feet underground in a mine cage elevator

• Walk original mine tunnels and drifts

• Learn how miners drilled, blasted, and removed iron ore

• See preserved equipment and geological features

• Hear stories of daily life, safety challenges, and labor history

Hands-On Elements: Guided interpretation and underground exploration
Photo/Video Policy: Photography allowed underground; flash restrictions may apply
Souvenirs & Extras: Visitor center exhibits and gift shop above ground

Pricing of the Soudan Underground Mine Tour

Tours require paid admission in addition to park entry fees.
Pricing varies by age group.

Visiting information

Duration: Approximately 75–90 minutes
Format: Guided underground mine tour
Schedule & Seasonality: Tours offered seasonally, typically mid-May through mid-October
Audience: Families, history enthusiasts, geology fans, industrial heritage travelers
Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible; stairs and uneven surfaces underground
Safety & Restrictions: Hard hats provided; minimum age and height requirements apply
Languages: English
Group & School Visits: Group tours available with advance reservation
What to Bring/Wear: Closed-toe shoes; warm clothing (mine temperature ~51°F year-round)
Facilities: Visitor center, restrooms, parking
Closures & Downtime: Tours may be canceled due to weather or maintenance
Working hours:

• Seasonal (May–October): Tours run daily at scheduled times, typically between 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Nearby

• Lake Vermilion recreation areas

• Iron Range scenic overlooks

• Minnesota Northwoods trails

FAQs About Visiting the Soudan Underground Mine

Is this a working mine?
No. The mine is no longer active and is preserved as a historic site.

How deep does the tour go?
Visitors descend approximately 2,341 feet underground.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, but age and height restrictions apply for safety reasons.

How cold is it underground?
The temperature remains around 51°F (11°C) year-round.

Do I need to reserve tickets in advance?
Yes. Advance reservations are strongly recommended, especially during peak season.