Hull Rust Mahoning Mine - Hibbing, Minnesota

In addition to several thousand gorgeous lakes, Minnesota is home to a "natural wonder" that's actually human engineered. Sometimes called the "Grand Canyon of the North," the Hull Rust Mine is the biggest open pit iron ore mine in operation in the world. At the present time, it is more than three miles long, two miles wide, and nearly 600 feet deep. It's operated by the Hibbing Taconite Company. Nearly two billion tons of ore and waste have been removed, equivalent to a 24-foot diameter tunnel dug all the way through the earth! Its production was crucial to the war effort during WWII. As you gaze down into the vast hole, buildings and equipment are tiny dots of color. Up at the observation area, wander among giant tires and pieces of equipment used in the excavation. As you drive up to the mine overlook, you'll pass the Greyhound Museum. That's worth a stop. Greyhound, as well as the bus industry, developed here in Hibbing because of the need to transport miners.

If you go:
It used to be possible to tour this facility, but for some reason that's been stopped. North Hibbing, where the overlook and pit are, was where the town of Hibbing was once located. It had to be moved after iron ore was discovered under the town. The observation area and gift shop are open 7 days/week from 9 to 5. Slide presentation on history. Free. The Greyhound Bus Museum is located at 1201 Greyhound Blvd. Open Mid-May through September. Admission. .

Phone Numbers:

Hull Rust Mahoning Mine
+1 (218) 4166

Greyhound Bus Museum
(218) 263-5814