Welcome to Mountain Iron – the taconite capital of the world!
As its name suggests, the City of Mountain Iron was literally built on a mountain of iron.
It was here, in 1890, that Leonidas Merritt first discovered iron ore, launching the mining era. Historic downtown Mountain Iron proudly displays a statue of Merritt and a 1910 Baldwin locomotive. From here, you can see where Merritt first discovered ore. Numerous historic buildings like the city library highlight this community’s rich mining past.
The continued success and expansion of mining operations today has benefited Mountain Iron. A new community center, YMCA and retail expansion highlight recent development here.
Capture a birds-eye view of U.S. Steel’s Minntac mining operations at the Wacootah Overlook or relax at the West Two Rivers Campground or numerous reclaimed mine pits, where you’ll find canoeing, fishing, swimming, and more. Or, hop on the Mesabi Trail, and bike (or hike) your way across the Iron Range.
Every August, the city hosts the annual “Merritt Days Festival” to celebrate the region’s mining tradition.
Visit tour.ironrange.org for more information on lodging, dining, events and more in Mountain Iron.
