I always find peace in Ely—and if you’re craving a Northwoods escape, you will too. When I need to unplug, I head to this quiet little town on the edge of the Boundary Waters. You’ll paddle glassy lakes at sunrise, spot wildlife in the forests, or just sip coffee in a cozy downtown café. I’ve found Ely to be the perfect mix of wild adventure and small-town charm, and I think you’ll fall for it like I did.
Best Time to Visit
I usually plan my trips between May and October—that’s when you’ll get the best weather for canoeing, hiking, and spotting wildlife. I’ve seen some of the most stunning fall colors here in late September. And if you come in winter, like I sometimes do, you’ll find snowshoe trails and even a glimpse of the northern lights.
How to Get There
- By Car: I drive up from Duluth in about 2.5 hours. You can also take US-169 or MN-1 from Minneapolis–Saint Paul—it’s around 4.5 hours, but worth every mile.
- By Air: I’ve flown into Duluth International (DLH) before and rented a car. You’ll enjoy the scenic drive northeast into Ely.
- By Shuttle: I’ve seen a few outfitters offering shuttle service from Duluth—if you’d rather not drive, that’s an option I’d consider.
Where to Stay
- Grand Ely Lodge – I love staying lakeside here. You’ll get cozy rooms, great food, and can rent a canoe without leaving the property.
- Northern Lights Lodge – When I want that classic cabin feel with modern touches, this is my go-to. You’ll find it’s great for families or fishing weekends.
- A Stay Inn Ely – I’ve stayed here when I wanted to be in the heart of town. You can walk to cafés, shops, and grab breakfast without needing your car.
Top Attractions in Ely
Sheridan Street - Walk along this charming stretch and explore unique local attractions.
International Wolf Center - See majestic wolves and enjoy an educational family trip.
North American Bear Center - Discover bear behaviors and explore this exciting, unusual wildlife center.
Kawishiwi Falls Trail - Hike through scenic woods and admire the falls on a spring outing.
Dorothy Molter Museum - Visit this unusual museum and learn about a legendary Northwoods life.
Bear Head Lake State Park - Explore forested trails and enjoy a relaxing summer weekend.
Bass Lake Trail - Walk along peaceful paths and admire fall foliage around the lake.
Way To Go Canoe Outfitters - Launch your adventure and enjoy an affordable paddling trip.
White Wilderness Sled Dog Adventures - Go mushing through snow and experience a thrilling winter adventure.
Piragis Northwoods Company - Gear up for exciting canoe trips and explore wilderness sights.
In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)