Lake Ore-Be-Gone, Minnesota

In Gilbert, 60 miles north of Duluth on the Iron Range of northern Minnesota, Lake Ore-Be-Gone is one of many mine pits now filled with water. Once rich with iron ore, the mine is now a recreation area, and recently acquired by Tall Pine Scuba, a dive store five miles away in Virginia, Minnesota. The lake holds old mining equipment reintroduced into the water by the new owner. Further additions are planned. Two training platforms also are in place. When the ice is safe enough, ice dive training begins, usually in December, and ends sometime in mid- to late April. Besides old mining equipment, the dive site has sheer walls to dive and poke around. To see the numerous creatures, a dive light is recommended. South of the mine is a new OHV Park where people can bring their ATVs or four-wheelers and enjoy the many trails set up for different levels of challenge.

Depths to: 433 feet (131 m). The mining equipment rests in depths from 35 feet (11 m) to 70 feet (21 m).

Visibility: Five to 50 feet (1.5 to 15 m)

Water temperature: In the summer, 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius) above the thermocline and 42 F (5 C) below the thermocline, which is at about 30 feet (9 m).

Aquatic life: Sunfish, bluegill, trout, pike, turtles, suckers, bass, and much more.

Fees: There are no fees to dive in the old mines of the Iron Range. A guided one-tank dive to the sunken dive attractions costs $25. Dive maps are free.

On-site amenities: Sherwood Forest Campgrounds, public boat landing and beach. Lodging and food are within five miles of the lake. OHV Park and ATV rental within five miles.

For more info: Call Tall Pine Scuba at (218) 741-8118 or visit www.tallpinescuba.com.

Open: From noon to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, and other times by appointment.

Getting there: From Duluth, take U.S. Highway 53 north to Minnesota Highway 37. Turn east on M-37. Continue to Gilbert. In Gilbert, turn east onto Wisconsin Avenue.