Moccasin Point Public Water Access Modernization Underway
A major improvement project is officially underway at the Moccasin Point Public Water Access on Lake Vermilion as part of Minnesota’s statewide Get Out MORE Initiative – a historic investment focused on modernizing outdoor recreation infrastructure and improving public access across the state. Links: The project represents a significant long-term investment in the future of boating, fishing, recreation, and tourism on Lake Vermilion. Once completed, the upgraded facility is expected to improve traffic flow, increase usability, enhance safety, modernize infrastructure, and create a better overall experience for residents, visitors, anglers, guides, and outdoor enthusiasts who access the lake through Moccasin Point each year. The improvements are part of a broader wave of recreation investments happening across the Lake Vermilion area, including new public access improvements, accessibility enhancements, and outdoor recreation projects designed to help more people safely and easily experience northern Minnesota’s lakes and public lands. According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Parks and Trails Division, construction activity will increase beginning June 1, 2026. Important Dates & Information Through May 31: Beginning June 1 Blasting & Rock Removal Activity Beginning June 1, drilling and blasting operations will take place as part of the rock removal process needed for
New Dock Project on Lake Vermilion Expands Access to Outdoor Adventure
Outdoor recreation opportunities on Lake Vermilion continue to grow with the opening of a brand new public boat dock on the north end of Pine Island, providing visitors with easier access to one of the area’s most scenic and remote outdoor destinations. Installed by Sportsmen for the Boundary Waters, the new dock creates convenient public access to hiking, hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing, and backcountry exploration within the Pine Island Wildlife Management Area. According to the organization’s announcement on Facebook, the project was made possible through partnerships with onX Hunt Access and Stewardship Initiative, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, and Minnesota’s Get Out MORE Initiative. The Get Out MORE (Modernize Outdoor Recreation Experiences) initiative is a statewide investment focused on improving public outdoor recreation infrastructure across Minnesota. The program supports projects that expand access to boating, fishing, trails, parks, and other outdoor experiences while improving accessibility and modernizing aging facilities. For the Lake Vermilion area, investments like the Pine Island dock help strengthen the region’s reputation as one of Minnesota’s premier outdoor recreation destinations. Visitors can now more easily explore the island’s rugged natural beauty, access public lands, and experience the kind of quiet northwoods adventure that makes Lake Vermilion
Calling all Moms! Join the Statewide Fishing Challenge.
Across Minnesota, Take a Mom Fishing Weekend returns May 9–10, 2026. During this weekend, moms can fish for free – no license required – making it easy to get outside, enjoy the lake, and spend time together. There’s no better place to tackle this challenge than Lake Vermilion!
Soudan Underground Mine Tours Set to Resume This May
After several years of closures, repairs, and setbacks, underground tours at Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park are set to return this spring. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has announced that public tours will officially resume on Saturday, May 23, once again giving visitors the opportunity to travel 2,341 feet below ground into one of Minnesota’s most historic iron ore mines. Often considered one of the most unique experiences in the state park system, the 90-minute guided tours take visitors deep underground in a historic miners’ “cage,” just as workers did for decades. Once at the 27th level, guests ride through tunnels by rail to explore areas where mining once took place, while interpreters share stories of the people and conditions that shaped the mine’s history. The return of underground tours follows nearly four years of disruptions. Limited tours were offered in 2022, followed by major shaft rehabilitation in 2023. In 2024, severe flooding caused by a regional storm damaged critical infrastructure, halting tours once again. Extensive repairs, including electrical system upgrades and rebuilt rail equipment, have now made it possible to safely reopen. New additions for this season include an updated introductory video and enhanced exhibit space featuring
2026 State of the Lake Report
Lake Vermilion is shaping up for an excellent 2026 fishing season, with strong walleye numbers in the ideal eating range and some of the highest catch rates in decades. Anglers can also expect solid action across multiple species, along with real trophy potential for muskie and northern pike.