Ely, Minnesota

Sheridan Street of downtown Ely, Minnesota features one thing that the majority of other towns and cities through the United States don’t: webcams. One such cam is pointed at the Basket Tree, which is a coffee shop, bakery, and gift shop all-in-one. While it may seem like a strange idea, many residents and visitors alike enjoy these cameras, as they give them a chance to wave at friends and family back home or use them to remember the fun they had in downtown Ely. Another cam focuses on Fall Lake at the Packsack Canoe Outfitters, through which sometimes deer and birds can be seen.

The International Wolf Center strives to help to the survival of the wolf populations by teaching visitors about wolves, the role of humans in their future, and their relationship with the wildlands. The triangular windows of the center are representative of wolf ears and eyes. There is an observation area that overlooks the wolf enclosure, as well as the den site, which is home to the center’s resident wolf pack. The centers provides an array of educational programs for families and adults. Week-long, weekend, or even just afternoon visits may include hikes, dog sledding, snowshoe treks, radio tracking, and howling trips.

1396 Highway 169, Ely, MN 55731, Phone: 218-365-4695

There is no other wildlife and black bear educational facility in existence like the North American Bear Center. The center is dedicated to replacing myths with facts, and allows people to learn about ecology, bear behavior, and more from bears themselves. A mural that depicts the wildlife of the area greets visitors to the Bear Center. Bear mounts are posed naturally, and the center also features a life-size skeleton replica of the extinct short-faced bear. An entire wall of windows looks out over the bear enclosure, which includes waterfalls and a pond. Subtle, natural background sounds and video footage accompany the exhibits.

1926 Highway 169, Ely, MN 55731, Phone: 218-365-7879

Recommended Attractions

The Kawishiwi Falls Trail, located just outside of the town of Ely, Minnesota, is an easy, short hike that leads to the scenic Kawishiwi Falls. The walking trail to the waterfall starts at the trail’s parking lot, and then winds its way through a wooded area. The trail features a minimal elevation gain, making it a very easy walk that can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages. There are a number of different vantage points along the trail of the Kawishiwi Falls, such as above the falls, from the side of the falls, and below the falls.

444 Fernberg Trail, Ely, MN 55731

The Dorothy Molter Museum aims to preserve and interpret the heritage of the Northwoods wilderness through its learning opportunities that are inspired by Dorothy Molter, who was the last non-indigenous resident of Minnesota’s Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Guided tours are available every hour, lasting around thirty minutes. These tour begin at noon, with the last tour taking place at four in the afternoon. The museum’s Visitors Center consists of rotating, small interpretive displays focusing on Dorothy Molter’s life that can be seen at no charge. The collection of the museum includes personal memorabilia and objects of Dorothy, archives, and photographs.

2002 E Sheridan St, Ely, MN 55731, Phone: 218-365-4451

Bear Head Lake State Park is a massive secluded park near the town of Ely, located in the Northwoods. The scenic park features pristine lakes, offering miles of shoreline that can be explored through hiking, boating, and canoeing. Bear Head Lake Park is also home to an array of different wildlife, such as moose, wolves, foxes, and eagles. Guests can have a picnic at the shelter; fish for trout, bass, or walleye; or go swimming at the park’s beach as well. RV and tent campsites can be found, as well as camper cabins that feature bunk beds, simple furnishings, and electricity.

9301 Bear Head State Park Rd, Ely, MN 55731, Phone: 218-235-2520

There are several loop options along the Bass Lake Trail, with the longest one being around six miles in length. Traveling all of the trail’s loops, of course, would be quite a bit farther of a walk than six miles. Along the Bass Lake Trail are a variety of chances to take in amazing scenery, From beautiful overlooks to varied terrain to small waterfalls, hikers can explore plenty of the scenic area. Sections of the hiking trail are steep and rugged, so visitors of the Bass Lake Trail should be sure to wear sturdy shoes, and children should also be watched carefully.

1548 Echo Trail, Ely, MN 55731

For Active Couples

Situated just five miles to south from Ely, Way To Go Canoe Outfitters is located in the Superior National Forest, which provides access to every entry point into the Quetico Provincial Park and Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The company specializes in canoe trip outfitting that features a personal touch. Jeff and Donna Hway, along with their family, possess over ninety years of combined experience exploring and fishing the waterways and portage trails in the area. The picturesque northwoods offer the perfect setting for their base of operations, allowing guests to easily transition from hectic everyday life to the wilderness’ tranquility.

1557 Esterberg Rd, Ely, MN 55731, Phone: 218-365-4726

For White Wilderness Sled Dog Adventures, dog sledding is what they do. First and foremost, they are not an arctic exploration or racing kennel. They are instead a professional tour provider with the best dogs for visitors wanting a dog sledding trip. Trained and experienced staff lead quality, safe mushing trips. The dogs of White Wilderness Sled Dog Adventures are lovable, socialized, and well-trained. These dogs, combined with quality equipment and great food, help make every dog sledding trip comfortable, safe, and memorable. There are many different types of trips available, designed to meet the needs of private groups, families, couples, or individuals.

10121 Deep Lake Rd, Ely, MN 55731, Phone: 800-701-6238

The Piragis Northwoods Company focuses on outfitting and guiding various canoe trips that explore the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Groups are kept small in size so guests can receive the personal attention that they deserve, as well as to offer the opportunity to experience the beautiful wilderness in a more intimate way. The experience and travels of the staff give the Piragis Northwoods Company a natural advantage in the outfitting industry. They use the equipment they sell to paddle in their own time, giving them the knowledge of paddling to be expert guides of the area.

105 N. Central Ave, Ely, MN 55731, Phone: 800-223-6565