The town and University exist because this region was a major producer of copper from about 1865-1920, and so the state established a college of mines and metallurgy in 1885. From early December through March, there are usually between 1 and 4 feet of it on the ground, which makes for excellent skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. Cross country skiing is popular, and the university operates a downhill ski resort which is a 5 minute drive from campus. The vertical drop does not rival Colorado, but it is steep and challenging, and is some of the best quality downhill skiing in the midwest. Lake Superior also moderates our temperatures, and we are typically 10-15 degrees warmer than Duluth MN in the Winter.
Many residents enjoy hiking, hunting, fishing, boating, camping, and other outdoor activities.
The area is loaded with waterfalls and other excellent hiking destinations.