Nashua MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Nashua, Minnesota.
1. Hill Annex Mine State Park
HISTORIC MINING EXPERIENCE
Hill Annex Mine State Park offers visitors a glimpse into Minnesota's rich mining history through guided tours of the former open pit mine. Visitors can explore the historic site and learn about the iron ore mining operations that were once vital to the region's economy. The park showcases mining equipment, geological specimens, and provides panoramic views of the transformed landscape.
2. Hawkins Mine Observation Platform
SPECTACULAR MINING VIEWPOINT
The Hawkins Mine Observation Platform, located at the western end of Central Avenue, provides one of the best mine views on the Iron Range. Visitors can gaze into the vast inactive open pit mine that helped shape Nashwauk's history and economy. The observation platform offers excellent photo opportunities and educational insights into the region's mining heritage.
3. LaRue Pit Lake
FISHING AND KAYAKING PARADISE
LaRue Pit Lake is a 2.5-mile long, 200-foot deep lake formed from four inactive mines east of Nashwauk. The lake features remarkable sheer cliff walls best appreciated while kayaking its crystal-clear waters. Anglers can enjoy fishing for various species including Bluegill, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Rainbow Trout, Walleye, and Yellow Perch.
4. Mesabi Trail
SCENIC RECREATIONAL PATH
The Mesabi Trail passes through Nashwauk, offering outdoor enthusiasts a scenic pathway for biking, hiking, and enjoying nature. The trail features a distinctive yellow entry archway and kiosk in Nashwauk, marking the town's connection to this important recreational resource. Visitors can park near the trail entry point and explore the beautiful Iron Range landscape on this well-maintained path.
5. Nashwauk Recreation Center
YEAR-ROUND SPORTS VENUE
The Nashwauk Recreation Center provides winter ice skating and various recreational facilities for residents and visitors. The center serves as a community hub for sports activities and social gatherings throughout the year. During winter months, the facility's ice skating rink offers a perfect opportunity for cold-weather fun.
6. Nashwauk RV Park
CONVENIENT CAMPING DESTINATION
Nashwauk RV Park welcomes campers with full-service amenities including water, sewer, and garbage disposal. The park is conveniently located near a picnic area and pavilion that can be rented for special events. Visitors also have access to shower facilities, making this an ideal base camp for exploring the Nashwauk area.
7. Nashwauk Baseball Fields
COMMUNITY SPORTS COMPLEX
Nashwauk Baseball Fields offer two well-maintained diamonds for America's favorite pastime in the heart of the city. The fields host local games and provide recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. The facility contributes to Nashwauk's vibrant community sports scene and offers a place for families to enjoy outdoor activities.
8. Nashwauk Football Field
LOCAL ATHLETIC VENUE
The Nashwauk Football Field serves as a gathering place for community sporting events and local competitions. The field provides a venue for both organized games and casual recreation in the heart of Nashwauk. Visitors can experience small-town sports culture while watching local teams compete on this community field.
9. Nashwauk Basketball Court
URBAN RECREATION SPOT
The Nashwauk Basketball Court offers a place for basketball enthusiasts to shoot hoops and enjoy friendly competition. The court is part of Nashwauk's commitment to providing diverse recreational opportunities for residents and visitors. Its central location makes it easily accessible for spontaneous games and community gatherings.
10. Nashwauk Playground
FAMILY-FRIENDLY PLAY AREA
The large playground in Nashwauk provides children with a fun and safe environment to play and explore. The playground features various equipment designed to encourage physical activity and imaginative play. Families visiting Nashwauk will find this playground to be a perfect spot for children to burn off energy while parents relax nearby.
11. Taconite Trail
EXTENSIVE SNOWMOBILE ROUTE
The Taconite Trail is accessible from Nashwauk and offers snowmobilers a marathon of winter adventure through Minnesota's northern landscape. Trail riders can connect to this extensive network via the Nashwauk Connection for a day of exhilarating snow sports. The trail system showcases the natural beauty of Minnesota's Iron Range region while providing well-maintained paths for winter recreation.
12. Nashwauk ATV Trails
OFF-ROAD ADVENTURE PATHS
Nashwauk offers ATV enthusiasts access to exciting trails for off-road adventures in Minnesota's Iron Range. Riders can explore the natural beauty of the region while navigating through diverse terrain and landscapes. The trail system provides opportunities for both beginners and experienced riders to enjoy motorized recreation in a scenic setting.
13. Hibbing Historical Society Museum
REGIONAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
The Hibbing Historical Society Museum preserves and showcases the rich history of the Hibbing area and surrounding Iron Range communities including Nashwauk. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring mining artifacts, immigrant stories, and displays about famous residents like Bob Dylan. The museum offers an educational glimpse into the development of the region and its significant contributions to American industry and culture.
14. Robert R. Gilruth Memorial
NASA PIONEER TRIBUTE
The Robert R. Gilruth Memorial honors the Nashwauk-born former director of the NASA Manned Spacecraft Center who played a crucial role in America's space program. Gilruth, who was awarded the prestigious Collier Trophy in 1971, has been inducted into multiple halls of fame including the International Air & Space Hall of Fame and the Minnesota Aviation Hall of Fame. This memorial celebrates Nashwauk's connection to one of the key figures who helped put humans on the moon.
15. Area Fishing Lakes
ABUNDANT ANGLING OPPORTUNITIES
The Nashwauk area is surrounded by thousands of lakes stocked with a variety of game fish including northern pike, muskie, bass, walleye, and various panfish. These pristine waters offer anglers year-round fishing opportunities in breathtakingly beautiful natural settings. Visitors can enjoy peaceful days on the water while trying their luck at catching dinner in this angler's paradise.