Hike To A Magnetic Monolith Hiding In The Middle Of A Forest In Minnesota
Minnesota has several mysterious places. There’s the Devil’s Kettle, a waterfall that disappears into a hole underground. There’s a set of millennia-old petroglyphs in the middle of a nondescript field, as well as an unusual set of pictographs that decorate a lakeside cliff. And there’s the strange attraction we’d like to introduce today. It’s a tall magnetic rock that stands in the middle of a northern Minnesota forest. It’s one of the most unique natural areas in the state, and we think it’s worth a visit for any Minnesota nature lover. Read on below to learn more.
The Magnetic Rock Trail is a unique hiking trail in northern Minnesota. It's outside of Grand Marais, within the vast wilderness of Superior National Forest.
The trail to the rock is about 3 miles in length. It's an undeveloped trail that may at times be rutted, muddy, and difficult to pass. Be sure to come prepared with proper clothing if you choose to do this trail during the off-season.
The area experienced a wildfire in 2007, as well as a controlled fire in 2002. Because of that, many of the surrounding trees are still small. But the forest is growing back, and it's an interesting landscape to hike through.
The rock is 60 feet tall and contains magnetite, which has magnetic properties. While you can't stick a refrigerator magnet to it, it does affect compasses. The best way to see the effect is to bring a compass and watch the needle spin.
If you're looking for an interesting place to visit that is a bit off the beaten track, hike to the 60-foot-tall magnetic monolith hidden in Minnesota's Superior National Forest!
Betsy is a Minneapolis-based writer who's lived in Minnesota for 20 years. If you know of any amazing Minnesota restaurants, nature areas, or other attractions, feel free to let her know about them at brathburn@onlyinyourstate.com or on Twitter @betsyrathburn.
