15 Things to Do in Ely, Minnesota (MN)

Ely, Minnesota (MN), nestled in the northeastern part of the state, is a hidden gem that attracts nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and history buffs alike. Located near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), Ely offers a combination of rugged natural beauty and a rich cultural history that makes it a unique destination for any traveler. Whether you're seeking a tranquil retreat or an action-packed adventure, Ely has something to offer every season of the year.

Ely’s reputation as an outdoor adventure hub is well-earned, and it also boasts a fascinating cultural heritage. With easy access to the Boundary Waters, numerous wildlife centers, and vibrant local festivals, it’s no wonder Ely has become a favorite for those looking to experience the beauty and adventure of northern Minnesota, similar to the many things to do in Bemidji, Minnesota (MN).

Unique Facts About Ely, Minnesota

Ely’s allure isn’t just about its outdoor recreation. The town has a deep-rooted history that extends beyond its modern-day offerings.

Historical Mining Roots
Ely was once a mining hub, particularly known for iron ore mining. This industry was crucial to the town’s development in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Mining was so significant to Ely's economy that many local museums and heritage sites highlight this pivotal part of the town's history, while just a short drive away, there are plenty of things to do in Stillwater, Minnesota (MN), offering a blend of history and outdoor activities.

Gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness
Ely is the gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), one of the most renowned outdoor recreation areas in the world. The BWCAW spans over 1 million acres of pristine wilderness, perfect for canoeing, fishing, camping, and wildlife watching.

Vibrant Arts Community
Despite its small size, Ely is home to a thriving arts scene. The town’s numerous local artists and galleries make it a cultural hotspot, with the annual Blueberry Arts Festival being a key event showcasing art, music, and local craftsmanship. If you’re looking for more cultural activities in the region, consider exploring things to do in Grand Rapids, Minnesota (MN).

Wildlife Viewing
Ely is also a prime spot for wildlife viewing. The region is known for its moose and wolf populations, making it a great destination for animal enthusiasts.

15 Things to Do in Ely, Minnesota (MN)

Ely, Minnesota, is a charming and picturesque town that serves as the gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), making it an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Whether you're an avid adventurer or a casual traveler, Ely offers a blend of natural beauty, exciting activities, and unique cultural attractions. From hiking and canoeing to exploring museums and enjoying festivals, there's no shortage of things to do in Ely.

1. Explore the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW)

Short Description of Activity
The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) is one of the most iconic outdoor destinations in the United States. This vast wilderness spans over 1 million acres of pristine lakes, forests, and waterways, perfect for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

  • Unmatched natural beauty

  • Ideal for outdoor recreation (canoeing, fishing, hiking)

  • Remote and peaceful, away from city life

  • Rich wildlife and birdwatching opportunities

• Cons:

  • Requires a permit to enter

  • Can be challenging for beginners due to remote areas

  • Limited cell service

Key Attractions and Events

• Canoe trips through the pristine lakes

• Scenic wildlife sightings (moose, bears, loons)

• Photography opportunities of untouched wilderness

2. Visit the International Wolf Center

Short Description of Activity
The International Wolf Center is a must-see for wildlife lovers. It offers an educational experience about wolves through interactive exhibits, educational programs, and up-close views of real wolves in a naturalistic setting.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

  • Excellent educational experience for all ages

  • Opportunity to observe live wolves in their habitat

  • Interactive and informative exhibits

• Cons:

  • Admission fee

  • The wolves may not always be visible

Key Attractions and Events

• Live wolf viewing

• Educational talks and programs

• Wolf care and conservation efforts

3. Tour the North American Bear Center

Short Description of Activity
The North American Bear Center provides a fascinating look into the lives of bears. This museum offers hands-on exhibits, live bear viewing, and in-depth information on bear behavior and conservation.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

  • In-depth knowledge about bears and their environment

  • Family-friendly and engaging

  • Learn about bear conservation

• Cons:

  • Limited time to see the bears

  • Entry fee required

Key Attractions and Events

• Live bear viewing

• Bear-related exhibits and educational talks

• Conservation efforts for bears in the wild

4. Hike the Kawishiwi Falls Trail

Short Description of Activity
The Kawishiwi Falls Trail is a scenic hike that leads to one of Ely’s most beautiful waterfalls. The trail is easy to moderate, making it accessible for most hikers.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

  • Beautiful waterfall views

  • Short and easy hike, great for beginners

  • Peaceful natural surroundings

• Cons:

  • Can be crowded during peak season

  • Not suitable for advanced hikers seeking challenging terrain

Key Attractions and Events

• Kawishiwi Falls as the main highlight

• Birdwatching and peaceful forest surroundings

5. Discover Bear Head Lake State Park

Short Description of Activity
Bear Head Lake State Park offers outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and fishing. It’s an excellent spot to enjoy nature, with a beautiful lake for boating and wildlife to spot.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

  • Fantastic fishing and boating opportunities

  • Quiet and serene environment

  • Perfect for family outings

• Cons:

  • Limited amenities

  • Can be crowded on weekends

Key Attractions and Events

• Bear Head Lake for swimming and fishing

• Hiking trails with scenic views

• Wildlife watching, including bears and deer

6. Tour the Dorothy Molter Museum

Short Description of Activity
The Dorothy Molter Museum preserves the legacy of Dorothy Molter, the “Root Beer Lady” of the Boundary Waters. Learn about her life and her famous homemade root beer.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

  • Fascinating historical insight into Ely’s history

  • Unique story of Dorothy Molter and her connection to the area

  • Friendly and knowledgeable staff

• Cons:

  • Smaller museum, may not interest everyone

  • Limited hours during off-season

Key Attractions and Events

• Dorothy Molter’s root beer story and memorabilia

• Historical exhibits about Ely’s wilderness pioneers

7. Walk the Trezona Trail

Short Description of Activity
The Trezona Trail is a scenic 2.6-mile trail in Ely that weaves through forests and along the beautiful Shagawa Lake. It’s ideal for a relaxing walk or a bike ride.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

  • Scenic views of the lake and surrounding nature

  • Easy and accessible for all ages

  • Great for walking or biking

• Cons:

  • Limited shade on hot days

  • Can get busy during peak tourist seasons

Key Attractions and Events

• Scenic views of Shagawa Lake

• Peaceful walk through the woods

8. Shop Downtown Ely

Short Description of Activity
Downtown Ely is a charming area filled with local shops, art galleries, and restaurants. It’s a perfect place to find unique gifts, handmade crafts, and sample local delicacies.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

  • Variety of local shops and restaurants

  • A chance to support small businesses

  • Great for souvenir shopping

• Cons:

  • Limited shopping options compared to larger cities

  • Can be crowded during the peak season

Key Attractions and Events

• Unique local shops and art galleries

• Local eateries offering authentic dishes

• Friendly atmosphere for browsing

9. Attend the Blueberry Arts Festival

Short Description of Activity
The Blueberry Arts Festival is Ely’s annual celebration of art, culture, and blueberries! The event includes craft booths, food vendors, live music, and of course, plenty of blueberry-themed treats.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

  • Fun and lively festival atmosphere

  • Variety of arts, crafts, and food

  • Great for families and art lovers

• Cons:

  • Can be crowded, especially on the weekends

  • Some food and crafts can be expensive

Key Attractions and Events

• Blueberry-themed foods and treats

• Live music performances

• Local arts and crafts vendors

10. Experience Dog Sledding

Short Description of Activity
Experience the thrill of dog sledding in the winter months, where you can ride behind a team of sled dogs as they race across the snow-covered terrain of Ely’s wilderness.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

  • Unique winter activity

  • Thrilling and unforgettable experience

  • Learn about dog sledding and its history

• Cons:

  • Only available in winter

  • Price can be high for guided tours

Key Attractions and Events

• Dog sledding tours through snowy landscapes

• Opportunities to meet the dogs and learn about their training

11. Visit the Ely-Winton Historical Society

Short Description of Activity
The Ely-Winton Historical Society offers an enriching look into the history of the area, with a variety of exhibits on the town’s mining and logging past.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

  • Rich historical insights

  • Affordable admission

  • Small but informative exhibits

• Cons:

  • Limited hours during off-season

  • Small space may not interest all visitors

Key Attractions and Events

• Mining and logging history exhibits

• Local artifacts and historical photos

12. Hike the Bass Lake Trail

Short Description of Activity
The Bass Lake Trail is a picturesque trail that leads through forested areas and to the serene Bass Lake. It’s a quiet spot ideal for hiking and nature walks.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

  • Tranquil and beautiful environment

  • Great for wildlife watching

  • Moderate difficulty, suitable for most hikers

• Cons:

  • Not many facilities nearby

  • May be difficult to navigate during wet conditions

Key Attractions and Events

• Bass Lake views

• Opportunity for birdwatching and wildlife spotting

13. Relax at Pebble Spa

Short Description of Activity
After a day of adventure, unwind at Pebble Spa in Ely. Offering a range of spa treatments, it’s the perfect place to relax and recharge.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

  • Relaxing and peaceful environment

  • Variety of treatments available

  • Ideal for rejuvenating after outdoor activities

• Cons:

  • Spa services can be pricey

  • Limited availability during peak seasons

Key Attractions and Events

• Signature spa treatments for relaxation

• Peaceful environment to unwind

14. Explore the Ely Arts & Heritage Center

Short Description of Activity
The Ely Arts & Heritage Center is a cultural hub in the town, showcasing local art, heritage, and history through rotating exhibits and art displays.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

  • Opportunity to appreciate local art and history

  • Family-friendly environment

  • Free admission or low-cost entry

• Cons:

  • Limited exhibits, especially during the off-season

  • Small venue, may not interest everyone

Key Attractions and Events

• Art exhibits from local artists

• Educational talks on Ely’s cultural heritage

15. Snowshoe in Bear Island State Forest

Short Description of Activity
For winter sports enthusiasts, snowshoeing in Bear Island State Forest offers a peaceful and scenic adventure through snow-covered forests and frozen lakes.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:

  • Unique winter activity in a serene setting

  • Great for exercise and outdoor adventure

  • Quiet, less crowded than other winter sports

• Cons:

  • Only available in winter

  • Can be physically challenging for beginners

Key Attractions and Events

• Snowshoeing through untouched winter landscapes

• Quiet and peaceful natural surroundings

Ely, Minnesota, is a treasure trove of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and unique attractions. Whether you're exploring the wilderness, learning about wildlife, or relaxing at a local spa, Ely has something for everyone.

Best Time to Visit Ely, Minnesota

Ely is a year-round destination, offering a variety of activities and experiences that change with the seasons. Below is a table outlining the best times to visit based on the activities available and the average temperatures.

Unique Gems in Ely, Minnesota

Ely offers some truly unique attractions that make it stand out from other outdoor destinations.

Ely’s International Wolf Center
The International Wolf Center is a must-visit for any wildlife lover. This center allows you to learn about wolves and view them in their natural habitat. The center’s educational programs make it a fascinating stop for those interested in animal behavior and conservation.

Ely’s North American Bear Center
Similar to the wolf center, the North American Bear Center provides a rare opportunity to observe bears in a natural setting. Visitors can learn about the species’ behavior, biology, and conservation efforts.

Trey’s Place
For those looking to explore local shops and artisans, Trey’s Place is a hidden gem. This quirky shop offers a variety of locally-made crafts, from artwork to handcrafted jewelry, perfect for anyone wanting to bring home a unique souvenir.

Shagawa Lake
For a peaceful escape, Shagawa Lake is an idyllic location for fishing and boating. The clear waters and scenic views make it the perfect place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

The Dorothy Molter Museum
Step back in time and learn about the "Root Beer Lady" of the Boundary Waters at the Dorothy Molter Museum. Dorothy Molter was one of the last people to live in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, and the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into her life and the history of the area.

Day Itinerary for Ely, Minnesota

Ely offers a range of activities that can easily fill a day. Here’s a suggested itinerary for a perfect day in Ely.

Morning:
Start with breakfast at one of the local cafés, offering everything from pancakes to fresh pastries. Afterward, explore the Ely Arts District, visiting galleries and craft shops showcasing local talent.

Mid-Morning:
Head to the International Wolf Center for an informative and exciting experience. Learn about the center’s wolves and observe them in their natural habitat.

Lunch:
Enjoy lunch at a lakeside restaurant, where you can take in the view of Shagawa Lake while enjoying some fresh, local cuisine.

Afternoon:
After lunch, embark on a guided canoe or kayak tour of the Boundary Waters. This is an unforgettable way to explore the pristine wilderness and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Evening:
Visit the North American Bear Center, where you can get an up-close look at bears. End your day with a sunset view at Burntside Lake, a popular spot for its stunning natural beauty.

Night:
Spend the night in one of Ely’s cozy cabins or lodges. Winter visitors may even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights while stargazing.

How to Reach Ely, Minnesota

Ely is accessible by multiple means of transportation, making it easy for visitors to reach.

By Car
Ely is easily reachable by car via U.S. Highway 169 and Minnesota State Highway 1. The drive to Ely offers scenic views and is well-marked for those visiting for the first time.

By Air
The nearest major airport is the Duluth International Airport (DLH), located about a 2.5-hour drive away from Ely. From Duluth, you can rent a car or take a bus to reach Ely.

By Bus
Several bus services operate between major nearby cities like Duluth and Ely, providing another convenient option for visitors.

Conclusion

Ely, Minnesota, is an ideal destination for anyone seeking a mix of outdoor adventure, wildlife viewing, and cultural experiences. With its proximity to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, numerous lakes, and wildlife centers, it is a paradise for nature lovers. Whether you’re visiting during the summer for canoeing and fishing or in the winter for snowmobiling and dog sledding, Ely offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

Whether you're looking for an action-packed outdoor adventure or a relaxing getaway in the midst of nature, Ely provides the perfect escape. The town’s rich history, scenic beauty, and variety of activities make it a destination that should be on everyone’s travel list.

FAQs

What is Ely, Minnesota, known for?
Ely is known for its outdoor recreation, particularly canoeing, fishing, and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. It's also famous for its wildlife centers dedicated to wolves and bears.

What is the best time to visit Ely?
The best time to visit is in the summer for outdoor activities, but winter offers excellent snow sports, and fall provides beautiful foliage views.

How do I get to Ely, Minnesota?
Ely is accessible by car, with the nearest airport being Duluth International Airport.

Are there guided tours in Ely?
Yes, Ely offers various guided tours, including canoeing, fishing, and wildlife observation tours.