Once you’ve explored the loop of on-site trails at Pehrson Lodge, there are several great hiking trails in the area to visit. Trails range from short boardwalks to longer, more natural routes. They all give you a glimpse of the beauty of northern Minnesota. From rushing waterfalls and gorges to natural bogs and forests, Lake Vermilion area hiking trails are sure to please.
The Black Bay Hiking Trail is a local favorite. This water access only hiking trail system is located on the northern shore of Lake Vermilion. Walk for a mile or two and turn around, or continue walking and try the six-mile loop. Within the first mile, you will see a beaver pond, undisturbed forests, hilly terrain, wild berries and beautiful views.
This trailhead offers a convenient dock for parking and picnic area with campfire pit and picnic table for day use. Pack a shore-lunch and enjoy an outdoor meal after your hike. The Black Bay trailhead is on the West End of the lake, just a short boat ride from Pehrson Lodge.
Please stop by the Main Office if you would like help planning your trip to the Black Bay Trail. Please not: Conditions of six-mile loop can make it difficult to see the trail in places.
The Vermilion Gorge is a stunning hike that leads you along the Vermilion River to a breathtaking overlook of the gorge. The gravel trail covers a landscape of granite cliffs and rock outcrops. There are some significant uphill sections toward the end of the trail, so be sure to preserve some energy. This hike is 1.5 miles each way, and makes for a nice half-day trip.
The trailhead is located in Crane Lake, an hour’s drive north of Pehrson Lodge. Learn more here.
Take a drive about 45 minutes north towards Crane Lake to the Vermilion Falls. This is a short hike of .25 miles, and it follows along the Vermilion River to a cascading waterfall. This low-output hike is extremely picturesque and great for all ages.
Learn more here.
The Laurentian Divide Recreation Area serves as a trailhead for Lookout Mountain hiking and ski trails. This includes a .5-mile fitness trail with exercise stations. Hiking trails lead to the top of Lookout Mountain for a beautiful vista. This lookout is especially nice for viewing fall colors. Head south on Highway 53, and you will see the trailhead four miles south of Virginia.
Learn more here.
The Astrid Lake Trail offers seven miles of hiking trail connecting four small lakes. Soak in the wonders of northern Minnesota as you hike. This trail is located an hour north of Pehrson Lodge.
Learn more here.
Learn about Minnesota mining history and enjoy nature. This trail takes you through a northern conifer forest and along the rim of the historic open mine pits. The Soudan Mine is a former iron ore mine. Obtain a map at the park office to see the five miles of hiking trails.
Learn more here.
Visit our Area Attractions page to learn about underground mine tours at the park.
This .5-mile boardwalk surface provides nature enthusiasts of all ages and abilities easy access to a wide variety of wetlands. View the wetland types that are native to northern Minnesota: spruce bog, ash swamp, tamarack swamp and cattail march.
Learn more here.
Bike the numerous rural roads that wander through scenic Northern Minnesota. Explore the Mesabi Trail, accessed in Virginia. The Holm Logging road, which is to the North on Highway 24, is a mountain bike adventure. The Alvina Road, just to the north of the Pehrson Lodge driveway and across the street, is another mountain bike option.
Please stop in the Main Office if you’d like more information on where to ride.