Finntown Overlook and Park

Walk through a 50-foot caged safety bridge out into the midst of the historic Rouchleau group of mines. The mining canyon expands nearly three miles long, a half-mile wide and 450 feet deep. Experience towering rock-cropped walls with various red hues stretching across the entire open pit mine.

The Rouchleau Group of mines began as underground shafts, when other mines honey-combed the earth a few hundred feet below the surface, eventually joining underground. This group of mines produced more than 300 million gross tons of iron ore within the Virginia district. Ten mining companies were involved in the Rouchleau in open pit mining at one time or another, with the last shipments being made in 1977.

The panoramic view comes alive with autumn’s colors and provides various bird watching opportunities.

The Finntown Overlook Park is also a gateway to recreation with an entrance to a paved biking trail, The Mesabi TrailSM and direct access to more than 2,000 miles of scenic groomed snowmobile trails.
 
Directions: Located at the east end of 3rd Street North in Virginia past historic Kaleva Hall; three blocks north of Chestnut Street.
 
Admission: Free admission. The overlook is open year-round.
 
Finntown Overlook & Park
Laurentian Chamber of Commerce
403 North First Street
Virginia, MN 55792
218-749-2717