Winter Camping
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Experience the spirit of

Ely, Minnesota

 

Adventure awaits in Ely, Minnesota

Welcome to Ely! With nearly 20 entry points into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW)—over one million acres of pristine forest and waterways—the Ely area is your headquarters for adventure. Experience the magic of the Northwoods as you hike or ski through towering pine forests, enjoy a sunset paddle complete with a loon serenade, and sleep under the stars in the world’s largest International Dark Sky Sanctuary. You may even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights!

Ely is the perfect place to reconnect with family and friends. Expand your knowledge by visiting our museums and educational centers, indulge in delicious food, shop for locally-made goods, and prepare for an expedition into the wild with one of our many outfitters.

Hiking

The Ely area provides unique opportunities for those seeking wilderness hiking in Minnesota....

Kayaking

For vacationers who like the idea of traveling by water, surrounded by the beauty only nature can...

Camping In Ely & BWCAW

Do you love camping in Minnesota? Enjoy getting away from the hustle and bustle of everyday living...

Mountain Biking

The Ely Area offers several opportunities for mountain biking with routes to suit various skill...

Fishing

If you are planning a fishing trip to Minnesota, then look no further than Ely Minnesota! Why? Ely...

Shopping

There are a wide variety of stores in Ely, MN to buy something you need or just to commemorate your...

Birding

Birds are prevalent in the Ely Area and the Superior National Forest depending on the season and the...

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Upcoming Events

Camping on the Superior National Forest

Tips for spring and summer tent camping from experienced local guides Camping is a timeless pastime that has inspired generations of outdoor enthusiasts, but it also appeals to those wanting to get away from the hustle of life. Though wilderness camping may be easy and accessible to some, others get

Ely Tourism

Camping on the Superior National Forest

  • 12 minute read

Tips for spring and summer tent camping from experienced local guides Camping is a timeless pastime that has inspired generations of outdoor enthusiasts, but it also appeals to those wanting to get away from the hustle of life. Though...

Ely-Winton Historical Society

Winter Logging

  • 2 minute read

If you look at old photos of the logging camps in the Ely and Winton area, you might notice something surprising that is common in all of them: they were all taken in winter. Why would loggers choose to work in the harsh northern Minnesota...

Ely Tourism

Look Up

  • 5 minute read

Exploring our connection to the night sky from the World’s Largest International Dark Sky Sanctuary Since the beginning of time the night sky has been an important part of life. Ancient cultures used it as a resource to guide them,...

Visitor Experiences In Ely, MN