The best road cycling routes in Lake Vermillion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park

There are four dedicated road cycling routes within Lake Vermillion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park, all classified as moderate difficulty. These routes offer a range of distances and elevations, providing diverse experiences for cyclists.

The road cycling routes in Lake Vermillion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park traverse a landscape characterized by glacially-fed lakes, lush forests, and expansive wetlands. You'll encounter varied scenery, including views of Lake Vermilion, old-growth pine stands, and rocky formations along the shoreline. While primarily paved, some routes may feature rolling hills and varied surfaces.

While all routes listed in the park are rated as moderate, the longer options provide a good challenge with significant elevation gains. For instance, the Lake Vermilion State Park – Ely loop from Hoist Bay covers nearly 75 km with almost 500 meters of elevation gain, offering a substantial ride for experienced cyclists.

Road cycling routes in the park offer numerous scenic views. You can enjoy stunning blue and green vistas of Lake Vermilion and its islands, cycle through old-growth pine stands, and observe diverse forest habitats. Keep an eye out for the unique geological features like the Banded Iron Formation. The View of Armstrong Lake – Ely loop from Lake Vermillion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park specifically highlights views of Armstrong Lake.

Yes, all the road cycling routes available in Lake Vermillion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park are designed as loops. Examples include the Lake Vermilion State Park – Tower loop from Armstrong Bay and the Jasper Peak – Lake Vermilion State Park loop from Whisky Island, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.

The best time for road cycling in Lake Vermillion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park is typically from late spring through early autumn. During these months, the weather is generally mild, and the natural scenery, including lush forests and lake views, is at its most vibrant. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

While specific parking areas for each route start are not detailed, the Armstrong Bay Day Use Area within the park offers facilities including picnic shelters and a boat dock, which could serve as a convenient starting point with parking. Additionally, areas around Tower, MN, which is a common start/end point for some loops, may offer parking options.

The town of Tower, Minnesota, which is often part of or near several cycling routes, offers various amenities including restaurants and pubs where you can refuel after your ride. For instance, the Lake Vermilion State Park – Tower loop from Armstrong Bay passes through or near Tower.

The diverse forest habitats and wetland complexes in Lake Vermillion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park are home to a variety of wildlife. Cyclists might spot deer, various bird species, and potentially even wolves or bears, especially in quieter sections of the routes. Always maintain a respectful distance and be aware of your surroundings.

The park provides direct connections to the paved Mesabi Bike Trail, which is a significant asset for touring cyclists. This allows for access to longer routes that extend beyond the immediate park boundaries, offering further exploration through scenic landscapes of the region.

As Lake Vermillion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park is a Minnesota State Park, a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is typically required for entry. This permit covers parking and access to the park's facilities, including its cycling routes. It's advisable to check the official Minnesota DNR website for the most current permit requirements and fees.