Underground Mine Tour
In mid-March 2011, the 2,300 foot deep mine shaft was damaged by fire and by the thousands of gallons of foam and water that were sprayed into it to extinguish the fire. The repair process that began this summer is still underway. Underground tours of the mine or lab are not available at this time, but are expected to resume in the future.
The tour will take you 1/2 mile down into the earth on a cage similar to the one the miners used in earlier days. Once underground, you will take a 3/4 mile train ride to the last and deepest area mined.
Plan 1.5 hours for the tour. Bring a warm coat or sweater. Closed-toed shoes are recommended. Close space for the three-minute ride down into the mine and two narrow spiral staircases.
When offered
Daily: Memorial weekend thru Labor Day (10a.m. to 4p.m., on the hour).
Also offered: September 8 thru end of September 30 (weekdays at 10a.m., 12p.m., 2p.m., and 4p.m. and hourly on weekends from 10a.m. to 4p.m). First three weekends in October (10a.m. to 4p.m., on the hour on weekends, every two hours on weekdays).
Tour rates
- $10/adult
- $6/child 5-12
- no charge/child under 5 (ticket required)
NOTICE! The Minnesota state parks online reservation system is being upgraded and will become available again March 1. More...