There’s evidence of Minnesota history all around the state. You’ll find traces of the state’s earliest people at places such as Jeffers Petroglyphs. Other historical places are more recent, like the one we’d like to feature today. It’s an old quarry found at Banning State Park, and it’s easy to visit via a dense woodland trail. Next time you’re looking for an interesting hike to crumbled ruins, consider visiting this place. Read on below to learn more:
Banning State Park is a beautiful state park in east-central Minnesota, in the small town of Sandstone. The park is known for its gorgeous nature areas, especially the Kettle River. Tree-covered cliffs rise above this rugged river, eventually flowing into a small but beautiful waterfall.
Tony Webster/Flickr
Beyond the river, the woods are thick and full of interesting sights. It’s a mixed forest with many different types of trees present. Many grow among rugged rock outcrops, making for some beautiful sights within the park.
Tony Webster/Flickr
Trails through the park will take you to the interesting sights. One trail in particular, the Quarry Loop Trail, is a tree-covered trek that is full of beauty - and a little mystery. Why? It leads to some fascinating old ruins.
mara/Flickr
Hikers quickly discover why the 1.8-mile Quarry Loop Trail is worth visiting. As you walk, the remnants of crumbled buildings come into view.
Tony Webster/Flickr
These are the ruins of an old quarry that began here in 1892. Workers cut tons of pink sandstone from the ground for use in construction.
MN Photos/Flickr
As a result of the activity, several buildings were built to accommodate the quarrying. There was even a town, named Banning, which formed around the quarrying.
MN Photos/Flickr
By the early 1900s, the easy-to-harvest stone had run out, and the demand for sandstone as a building material had diminished. As a result, the quarry and its buildings fell into ruin.
Ann/Flickr
Today, you can still see evidence of the quarry. It’s a fascinating place filled with rugged, ruined beauty. If you’re looking for a historic hike, take a trip to the Quarry Loop Trail in Sandstone, Minnesota!
MN Photos/Flickr
Have you ever been to the quarry at Banning State Park? Let us know what you thought in the comments! Also be sure to nominate any of your other favorite Minnesota places to be featured!
Tony Webster/Flickr
mara/Flickr
MN Photos/Flickr
Ann/Flickr
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Address: Banning State Park, 61101 Banning Park Rd, Sandstone, MN 55072, USA
