Ely is more than a destination; it is the gateway to the untamed beauty of the Superior National Forest and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. A true year-round haven, Ely invites you to bring the right gear and enjoy the outdoors in any weather. Whether you seek the solitude of a canoe paddle or the thrill of a snowy trail, your adventure begins here.
Minnesotans know that Ely is a true year-round destination because with the right gear, you can enjoy the outdoors in any weather. This northern Minnesota travel destination is the gateway to the Superior National Forest and Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
Active outdoor activities include canoeing, hiking, biking, bird watching, fishing, dog sledding, snowshoeing, skiing and golf. The Ely Regional Trailhead is a new access hub for hundreds of miles of trails, enhancing trail access for outdoor recreationists.
Leisure and cultural activities include shopping, scenic drives, dining, bird watching, and dark sky viewing. Ely is also home to the International Wolf Center, North American Bear Center, Dorothy Molter Museum, Ely Folk School, and the Ely-Winton History Museum.
The city hosts many year-round festivals and events such as the Ely Film Festival, Harvest Moon Festival, Blueberry Art Festival and Ely Dark Sky Festival.
