Hiking Trails in Ely, MN

The Ely area provides unique opportunities for those seeking a wilderness hiking experience. Depending upon the experience you are seeking, assorted hiking trails can lead you either on a short jaunt, vigorous day trip or an extended wilderness trek. Hundreds of miles of wilderness hiking trails can be accessed in the Ely area. With good planning and proper trip preparation, a day on a Northwoods trail can be rewarding and memorable. Hiking trail information and maps are available at the Ely Chamber of Commerce, the Kawishiwi Range District office, and at local lodging facilities.

Secret Blackstone Trails – Located 20.5 miles North and East of Ely, from Ely take State Hwy 169 East past Winton where it becomes the Fernberg Road (Cty. 18) Go 18.5 miles to the Moose Lake Road.  Turn left onto the Moose Lake Road and go 2 miles.  Scenic overlooks of small lakes, one back country campsite, opportunity to see the changing forest after the 1999 Blowdown.  Blackstone Loop is 2.1 miles, Secret Loop is 3.1 miles, Ennis and back, 3 miles. 

Bass Lake Trail – Located 6 miles North of Ely.  Follow Hwy 169 east of Ely to County Rd 88.  Take a left onto County Rd 88 to County Rd 116 (Echo Trail).  Go north on the Echo Trail 2.6 miles to the Bass Lake parking lot, located on the north side of the road.   Back country sites, historically and ecologically unique, rugged terrain (wear sturdy shoes) and scenic overlooks.  Bass Lake Loop is 5.25 miles, Dry Lake Loop is 3 miles, Dry Falls and return is 1.7 miles. Full exterior loop is 6.1 miles.

Angleworm Trail – Located 18 miles north of Ely, via County Rd 116 (Echo Trail).  A BWCAW permit is required to use this 14 mile trail.  6 back country sites.  The trail runs northeast, crossing Spring Creek and continues to the Trease Lake portage junction.  From this point it continues north along the west side of Angleworm Lake following scenic rock ridges.  It eventually veers away from the lake passing through old growth white pine as it continues around Moose Lake  From Moose Lake, the trail turns southward along high ridges and around Whiskey Jack Lake.  You will then pass along the east shore of Angleworm Lake and eventually back to the Trease Lake junction.