Experience the spirit of
Ely, Minnesota
Adventure awaits in Ely, Minnesota
Welcome to Ely! With nearly 20 entry points into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW)—over one million acres of pristine forest and waterways—the Ely area is your headquarters for adventure. Experience the magic of the Northwoods as you hike or ski through towering pine forests, enjoy a sunset paddle complete with a loon serenade, and sleep under the stars in the world’s largest International Dark Sky Sanctuary. You may even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights!
Ely is the perfect place to reconnect with family and friends. Expand your knowledge by visiting our museums and educational centers, indulge in delicious food, shop for locally-made goods, and prepare for an expedition into the wild with one of our many outfitters.
Hiking
The Ely area provides unique opportunities for those seeking wilderness hiking in Minnesota....
Kayaking
For vacationers who like the idea of traveling by water, surrounded by the beauty only nature can...
Camping In Ely & BWCAW
Do you love camping in Minnesota? Enjoy getting away from the hustle and bustle of everyday living...
Mountain Biking
The Ely Area offers several opportunities for mountain biking with routes to suit various skill...
Fishing
If you are planning a fishing trip to Minnesota, then look no further than Ely Minnesota! Why? Ely...
Shopping
There are a wide variety of stores in Ely, MN to buy something you need or just to commemorate your...
Birding
Birds are prevalent in the Ely Area and the Superior National Forest depending on the season and the...
An Investigative Report on Fish Culture
With the Minnesota fishing opener right around the corner and set to begin on May 9, 2026, Visit Ely, MN decided to examine the goings-on of our fish neighbors and get the scoop on what is really going on in our local waters. Visitors to Ely’s lakes often make the mistake of assuming the fish are
An Investigative Report on Fish Culture
- 2 minute read
With the Minnesota fishing opener right around the corner and set to begin on May 9, 2026, Visit Ely, MN decided to examine the goings-on of our fish neighbors and get the scoop on what is really going on in our local waters. Visitors to...
Hygge in the Northwoods: Your Ultimate Guide to Cozy Contentment in Ely, MN
- 3 minute read
What exactly is hygge (pronounced hoo-gah)? It’s not a thing you buy, but a feeling you cultivate, a deep sense of contentment, coziness, and well-being that comes from savoring the simple moments. And there is no place better to...
Off-Road Adventures Ely MN: Ride the 250-Mile Prospector Loop
- 3 minute read
Ready to ditch the asphalt and crank up the adrenaline? Ely isn't just a place to visit—it's where you trade in your to-do list for a thrilling, dirt-splattered adventure. If you've been dreaming of an off-road escape,...
Places to Explore
Boundary Waters
The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness or BWCA is located in Minnesota in the northern third of the Superior National Forest. Over one million... Learn More
Downtown Ely
Don’t let the quaint, small-town atmosphere fool you. You’ll find some of the finest shopping and most intriguing gifts anywhere – right here... Learn More
Superior National Forest
The Superior National Forest is also home to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Getting up close and personal with this boreal forest is as easy as... Learn More
International Wolf Center
There are few things more magical and haunting than hearing wolves howl during a dark Ely night. Encountering these incredible animals in the wilderness is a... Learn More
North American Bear Center
The North American Bear Center is a nonprofit museum with beautiful indoor and outdoor viewing areas for visitors to watch live black bears. Make no mistake,... Learn More