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...
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
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...
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...
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,...
Places to Explore
Boundary Waters
Downtown Ely
Superior National Forest
International Wolf Center
North American Bear Center
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Boundary Waters
The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness or BWCA is located in Minnesota in the northern third of the Superior National Forest. Over one million... Learn More
Downtown Ely
Don’t let the quaint, small-town atmosphere fool you. You’ll find some of the finest shopping and most intriguing gifts anywhere – right here... Learn More
Superior National Forest
The Superior National Forest is also home to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Getting up close and personal with this boreal forest is as easy as... Learn More
International Wolf Center
There are few things more magical and haunting than hearing wolves howl during a dark Ely night. Encountering these incredible animals in the wilderness is a... Learn More
North American Bear Center
The North American Bear Center is a nonprofit museum with beautiful indoor and outdoor viewing areas for visitors to watch live black bears. Make no mistake,... Learn More