Cities and Towns in Iron County, Michigan

Founded in 1885, Iron County is one of 83 counties in the state of Michigan. Historically, Iron County was formed from parts of Marquette County and Menominee County. The city of Crystal Falls is the county seat. With FIPS code of 71, Iron County has a population of 11,635 and area of 1,211 square miles (3,136 km²).

List of all cities in Iron County, MI alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Alpha, MI	49902	906
Amasa, MI	49903	906
Beechwood, MI	49935	906
Caspian, MI	49915	906
Crystal Falls, MI	49920	906
Gaastra, MI	49927	906
Iron River, MI	49935	906
Stambaugh, MI	49964	906

Major Cities and Towns in Iron County, Michigan

1. Iron River

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

• Area: 6.98 square miles
• Population: Approximately 2,894 (2020 Census)
• Zip Code: 49935
• Latitude: 46.0925° N
• Longitude: 88.6419° W

Location and History

Iron River, the largest city in Iron County, is located in the western part of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Founded in the late 19th century, Iron River grew rapidly as a mining town, thanks to the rich deposits of iron ore in the region. The town’s development was closely tied to the mining industry, with the Chicago & North Western Railway providing a crucial transportation route for iron ore. Over the years, as mining declined, Iron River diversified its economy, turning to tourism and outdoor recreation. Its proximity to forests, rivers, and lakes makes it a popular destination for hunting, fishing, and snowmobiling.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Iron River is part of the West Iron County School District, with West Iron County High School serving the community. Major landmarks include Ice Lake Park, which offers a beach, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Ski Brule, located just outside the city, is a popular winter destination for skiing and snowboarding. Iron County Historical Museum showcases the area’s mining history and cultural heritage. The annual Upper Peninsula Championship Rodeo, held in Iron River, is one of the largest rodeos in the region and brings visitors from across the Midwest. Pentoga Park, located on Chicagon Lake, offers camping, fishing, and hiking opportunities.

2. Crystal Falls

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

• Area: 3.40 square miles
• Population: Approximately 1,469 (2020 Census)
• Zip Code: 49920
• Latitude: 46.0989° N
• Longitude: 88.3369° W

Location and History

Crystal Falls, the county seat of Iron County, is located along the Paint River in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Founded in the 1880s, Crystal Falls developed around the iron mining industry and the rich forests of the area. The city’s name comes from the nearby waterfall on the Paint River. Crystal Falls became a vital center for mining and logging in the early 20th century. Today, while mining has largely ceased, Crystal Falls retains its historical charm and has become a destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering easy access to rivers, lakes, and forests.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Crystal Falls is part of the Forest Park School District, with Forest Park High School being the primary educational institution. Key landmarks include the Iron County Courthouse, a striking Romanesque-style building listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Runkle Lake Park offers camping, swimming, and picnic areas along the shores of Runkle Lake. Crystal Falls Dam, located on the Paint River, is a scenic spot for fishing and hiking. The Humongous Fungus Fest, held annually, celebrates one of the largest living organisms in the world, a giant underground fungus located near the city. Harbour House Museum preserves the local history of mining and logging.

3. Caspian

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

• Area: 2.20 square miles
• Population: Approximately 859 (2020 Census)
• Zip Code: 49915
• Latitude: 46.0647° N
• Longitude: 88.6278° W

Location and History

Caspian is a small city located just southeast of Iron River. It was established in the early 1900s as a mining town and was named after the Caspian Iron Mine, one of the largest and most productive iron ore mines in the region. Like many towns in Iron County, Caspian thrived during the iron mining boom, with its economy centered around mining operations. After the mines closed in the mid-20th century, the town shifted towards a quieter, residential community, while still celebrating its rich mining heritage.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Caspian is also served by the West Iron County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Iron River. The Iron County Historical Museum, located in Caspian, is one of the largest outdoor museums in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and preserves the history of the area’s iron mining industry. The museum includes historic buildings, artifacts, and exhibits that highlight the region’s past. Caspian Ski Hill offers outdoor recreation in the winter, with trails for snowmobiling and skiing. The city’s proximity to Iron River and nearby lakes makes it a convenient spot for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities.

4. Gaastra

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

• Area: 1.21 square miles
• Population: Approximately 319 (2020 Census)
• Zip Code: 49927
• Latitude: 46.0592° N
• Longitude: 88.6092° W

Location and History

Gaastra is a small city located just south of Caspian and Iron River in Iron County. The city was founded in the early 20th century as a mining community, and it was named after Douwe Gaastra, a Dutch immigrant who was instrumental in the development of the local mines. Gaastra’s economy was tied closely to the iron mining industry, and the city experienced its peak during the early years of mining operations in the region. Today, Gaastra is a quiet residential area, with a focus on maintaining its small-town character and community spirit.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Gaastra is part of the West Iron County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Iron River. Landmarks in Gaastra include Gaastra City Park, which offers recreational facilities such as playgrounds and picnic areas. The town is located near the Iron County Historical Museum in Caspian, which highlights the shared mining history of the region. Gaastra is also close to many outdoor attractions, including Pentoga Park on Chicagon Lake, offering camping and boating opportunities. Although small, Gaastra is known for its peaceful environment and proximity to outdoor recreational areas in Iron County.

5. Alpha

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

• Area: 1.32 square miles
• Population: Approximately 126 (2020 Census)
• Zip Code: 49902
• Latitude: 46.0431° N
• Longitude: 88.3786° W

Location and History

Alpha is one of the smallest villages in Iron County, located southeast of Crystal Falls. Established in 1914, Alpha was founded as a company town for the Alpha Hematite Mine. The village was built by the mining company to house its workers and their families. During its early years, Alpha was a bustling mining community, with the iron ore from its mines helping to fuel industrial growth in the region. After the mines closed, Alpha transformed into a quiet rural village with a rich historical legacy.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Alpha is part of the Forest Park School District, with students attending schools in nearby Crystal Falls. The village is home to the Alpha Circle Historic District, a unique circular arrangement of streets surrounding the village’s central park and bandstand. This distinctive layout is a reminder of the town’s planned origins as a company town. The Alpha Michigan Brewing Company, located in a historic building, is a popular local attraction for residents and visitors alike. Horseshoe Falls, located nearby, is a scenic natural feature that offers hiking and nature observation opportunities. Alpha’s quiet charm and preserved history make it a unique destination in Iron County.