Discover
Ely
The Best Outdoor Adventures Happen Here
Welcome to Ely, gateway to one of America’s last pure outdoor experiences. Discover wilderness lakes and forests unchanged by the hand of man. Canoe for days and escape modern civilization. Hike along wooded trails, where nature touches your soul, uplifts your spirit and quiets your mind. Explore miles of waterways and shorelines that are alive with nature’s bounty.
When you vacation in Minnesota, you will experience an amazing journey; a passage between the world we live in the wilderness we left behind, but lives in our hearts forever.
Find the perfect cabin, resort, or motel for your vacation in Minnesota, one that will linger in your mind for years to come. Ely Area lodging facilities have a strong commitment to preserving the legacy of the family-owned resort or motel. Many vacationers return to this area and their favorite spot year after year because of the friendly, courteous, and quality service they are accustom to in Ely.
Pitch a tent or set up that camper – we’ve got the perfect site waiting! Enjoy private, wooded sites in a variety of campgrounds that overlook scenic lakes. Ely area campgrounds offer a large range of amenities, from basic supplies to hook-ups and full-service bath facilities.
Let the restaurants, shops, world renowned attractions, and historic places you explore become the memories that bring a smile to your face, no matter where you are. Ely restaurants offer fine dining with Northwood’s favorites such as walleye, wild rice and one-of-a-kind sandwiches. Our unique shops and historic places won’t be found elsewhere. You’ll discover incredible paintings, photography, jewelry, glassware and fiber art by local artisans as well as locally made clothing and winter footwear.
This is the Boundary Water Canoe Area Wilderness, where more than one million acres of ancient forest and 1, 500 plus waterways remain untouched by civilization. This is the largest wilderness area east of the Rockies, and one of the most incredible places you’ll ever see. A favorite way to experience it, of course, is by canoe, the way Native Americans, trappers, fur traders and explorers have throughout the ages. The outfitters of the Ely Area cherish the lakes and forests and are professional guides, biologists and historians who can make your BWCAW experience one of your life’s most rewarding.
When you vacation in Minnesota, you will experience an amazing journey; a passage between the world we live in the wilderness we left behind, but lives in our hearts forever.
Ely FAQs
Depending on who you ask, they might give Ely one of three titles: Canoe Capital of the World, Sled Dog Capital of the World or Coolest Small Town in America. They’re all right.
Imagine canoeing for miles (or days!) without seeing a cell tower, an airplane or a person other than the ones you came with. Imagine flying through the snow, cozy under warm blankets, on the back of a sled pulled by the happiest dogs you’ve ever seen. And regardless of when you decide to visit, Ely will always be a cool place to check out. Our downtown has recently had a renaissance — new businesses have opened, others have renovated, and everything shines a little brighter under the Ely Historic State Theater’s re-lit marquee.
But, we’re not just about the “silent sports” up here. A large percentage of our lakes are motorized, so trailer your fishing boat or rent one from the resort where you’re staying. We also love to snowmobile and off-road. ATVs have a soft spot in Ely’s heart with the nearly completed Prospector’s Loop that will connect five communities to Bear Head Lake State Park, Lake Vermilion State Park, and Lake County Regional ATV Trail.
How is the weather in Ely, MN?
Coming up to Ely and wondering about the weather? We may be up north, but it’s not always cold! Just the opposite. Ely has some of the best weather you’ll find, no matter the season.
In Ely, the summer days are long and comfortable while the winters can be chilly and snowy. Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies from -2°F to 77°F and is rarely below -27°F or above 85°F. Depending on the season, precipitation is common in both rainfall and snowfall, and often indicates when fish will be active or when it’s best to make other plans for dinner!
If you want to visit Ely for warm-weather activities, warmest months are from early June to late September. The ideal time of year to visit Ely for cold-weather activities is from mid-November to late March. But if you ask us, there is no bad time to be in Ely.
A fun fact that many people don’t consider when thinking about visiting Ely in the colder months: The acres to recreate almost double in the winter because of thick ice turning the surface of lakes into a cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, dog-sledding and snowmobiling playground.
But a word of caution: Temperature, snow cover and currents all affect the relative safety of ice. Review the DNR’s ice safety tips here.
And let’s talk about the sky. No matter the season, the BWCAW has been certified as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary, so enjoy those millions of stars. And if you’re one of Aurora’s chosen ones, behold the magic of the Northern Lights and be forever changed.
What should I bring on my trip to Ely, MN?
Our Ely, Minnesota canoe outfitters will supply you with everything you need for Minnesota canoeing except your personal items. You should bring an extra pair of pants, warm shirt, socks, underwear (long johns for spring and fall), jacket, cap or hat, sturdy shoes or boots, sneakers for around the camp, toiletry articles and knife. Optional items include a first aid kit, sunglasses, compass, insect repellant, flashlight, and a rainsuit. Fishing gear should include a spinning or spincast rod and reel and a few of your favorite lures.
Travel Options
How do I get there?
Ely, MN is 115 miles from Duluth, Minnesota, which is serviced by the Duluth International Airport. The airport offers several nonstop flights, many of them with multiple daily trips, from:
- Chicago (United)
- Detroit (Delta)
- Minneapolis (Delta)
- Las Vegas (Allegiant)
- Orlando (Allegiant)
Many area outfitters offer shuttle service from the airport. Simply arrange by calling your outfitter in advance.
We also have a company listed with us that provide transportation:
For more information on scheduling your flight and ground transportation, call your travel agent or visit www.duluthairport.com.
The roads leading to the Ely area are well maintained and easy to travel during all seasons of the year.
Use the map below to get directions to Ely from many major midwestern destinations.