Winter Adventure Guide - Visit Ely, MN

Everything you need to know for planning your winter adventure in Ely, Minnesota!

WINTER ADVENTURE GUIDE

Created by the Ely Area Tourism Bureau in partnership with the Superior National Forest

W INTER IN ELY

Prepare to be captivated by the glittering snowscape that blankets Ely each winter. Snow-covered pine forests and frozen lakes take you deep into a magical world you’ll never forget. Round up your family and friends, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for the experience of a lifetime! Photo: @campdunord | YMCA Camp du Nord on Burntside Lake

This guide was created to help you plan your winter Ely area adventure. Scroll through or click on any of the sections below.

WINTER GUIDE

A M A GIC A L L A NDSC A PE AWA ITS

The Superior National Forest is within the traditional homeland of the Dakota and Ojibwe people. They have occupied the area for thousands of years—beginning long before the establishment of the United States

and the creation of the Superior National Forest.

Over 445,000 acres or 695 square miles of the Superior National Forest is surface water . It contains 1,300 miles of cold water streams and 950 miles of warm water streams. There are over 2,600 miles of trails within the Superior National Forest.

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SUPERIOR NATIONAL FOREST The Superior National Forest is internationally known for its recreation opportunities. Valued for its boreal forest ecosystem, it is home to clean lakes, rivers, streams, and bogs; abundant winter snow and mild summer temperatures; as well as a rich cultural history. The Superior National Forest is renowned for its vast remote settings, as well as the one million+ acre Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

BWCAW (within the Superior National Forest)

Ely, MN

Superior National Forest

For a USFS interactive visitor map with options like real-time weather and fire alerts, click here.

It contains 20% of the National Forest System’s fresh water. More than 2,000 lakes are at least ten acres in size.

The American Bird Conservancy named it one of 100 globally important bird areas.

It is home to numerous wildlife species, including eagle, deer, gray wolf, common loon, Canada lynx, moose, otter, snowshoe hare, and black bear.

source: fs.usda.gov/main/superior

DOGSLEDDING IN ELY: THE EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME Whether you are looking for a beginner-style day-trip or a challenging hot-tent camping experience, seasoned mushers offer treks to meet your adventure plans.

Dogsledding is a fun winter excursion for all ages and skill levels. This unique hands-on experience is waiting for you here in Ely, the Sled Dog Capital of the World. More Information >

Wintergreen Dogsled Lodge Photo by Per Breiehagen

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Cast Outdoor Adventures Offering a variety of immersive

experiences in the BWCA from sunset tours to full day ice fishing and winter camping trips, Cast Outdoor Adventures serves able-bodied individuals as well as those with physical and intellectual disabilities. Website >

Chilly Dogs Sled Dog Trips Take an unforgettable day-trip dogsledding adventure in the Superior National Forest with Chilly Dogs! Website >

White Wilderness Dog Sled Adventures Offering affordable dogsledding day-trips, and overnight yurt and lodge-based trips. Website >

White Wolf Dog Sled Trips From day-trip runs, to camping and lodge-based trips, to fishing-focused adventures, White Wolf offers it all! Website >

Wintergreen Dogsled Lodge Offering legendary all-inclusive camping and lodge-based dogsled adventures— plus day-trips—for over 35 years. Website >

W INTER SC AV ENGER HUNT ON THE SUPERIOR N A TION A L FOREST

Screenshot this page and go hunting for winter treasures! Bonus challenge: take a photo of each different item you find, post to social, and tag @visitelymn —we’d love to see your pics! Remember: take only pictures, leave only footprints.

Grouse Burrow During winter, ruffed grouse spend nearly all of their time in snow burrows to stay warm and avoid predators. Look for tracks and wing marks near a small entrance hole. Entrances can get buried in fresh snow.

Animal Tracks in the Snow You can usually spot many different species’ tracks in the snow when out for even just a short walk in our area—from mice to snowshoe hare to wolves. Pick up a track ID book in Ely and see how many you can identify.

Owl Kill Site Finding an owl kill site is more rare than some of the other items on this scavenger hunt, but it’s a thrilling find! Look for disturbed areas of snow with wing marks, feathers, fur, droppings, and blood.

Otter Slide Marks When otters travel from pond to pond, they switch between bounding and sliding. Look for a track 6-12 inches wide and up to 25 feet long. Footprints can be found at the end and at the beginning of each slide

Photos: Tim Mattimore | @tim_mattimore

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Cross Country Skiing at Hidden Valley Recreation Area

NORTHERN LIGHTS: N A TURE’S MOST SPECT A CUL A R SHO W While you can catch the northern lights in Ely any time of year if you’re timing is right, winter is typically thought of as the best time of year to see the Northern Lights because of the long nights. “The northern lights are created when energized particles from the sun collide with Earth’s upper atmosphere at speeds of up to 45 million mph, but our planet’s magnetic field protects us from the onslaught. As Earth’s magnetic field redirects the particles toward the poles— there are southern lights, too—the dramatic process transforms into a cinematic atmospheric phenomenon that dazzles and fascinates scientists and skywatchers alike.” - Space.com

The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is an International Dark Sky Sanctuary.

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Fall Lake | Photo by Chris Ellerbroek

FALL LAKE | ELY, MINNESOTA | MARCH 23, 2023

“

Aurora activity started to peak around midnight. Visitors and locals gathered on the frozen lake to watch the light slowly strobe. The intensity of the light and the snow’s reflection made it brighter than a full moon. Suddenly, the aurora swelled around us, and there was an audible gasp by those watching. It was one of those moments that every photographer dreams of.

- Chris Ellerbroek | @corvidimages

sauna + ice plunge: A TRANSFORMATIVE FINNISH TRADITION

The history of saunas in Minnesota can be traced back to the late 19th century when Finnish immigrants brought their cherished tradition—dating back to 7000BC—to the Northwoods. They found comfort and community in the steamy warmth of saunas, breaking up their time in the heat with refreshing dips in a frozen lake or a roll in the snow. Thought to have many physical and mental health benefits, the sauna tradition in Ely continues to this day.

Wintergreen Dogsled Lodge | Photo by Layne Kennedy

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Ely Steam Sauna operates the oldest public sauna in Minnesota, open since 1915! You can book 90-minute sessions on their website .

Many area resorts, lodges, camps, and cabin rentals have saunas— some with a cold plunge option.

For a true winter Nordic experience, book lodging with a sauna! Lodging Directory >

Sauna hats have Russian and German origins. They’re thought to provide protection and cooling for the head and regulate body temperature in the heat of the sauna.

↓ Ely Folk School | Wet Felted Sauna Hat class (hats available for purchase)

FAT-TIRE BIKING Biking in the snow allows you to experience winter in a whole new way! Fat-tire bikes utilize much larger tires to increase the traction on snow-covered trails. Hidden Valley Recreation Area in Ely is groomed for fat-tire biking, with miles of fun trails to ride. The Mesabi trail is partially groomed for fat-tire biking, with the whole trail rideable in low snow conditions. Many back roads, frozen lakes, and trails on the 3.9-million acre Superior National Forest are also bikeable. Rent a fat-tire bike locally at Ely Bike and Kicksled >

RULES & ETIQUETTE • Biking isn’t allowed in the BWCAW. • Stay off of ski tracks, use designated fat-tire bike tracks. • Leave pets at home. • Don’t ride if your tire is leaving a rut, wait for the trail to set up after grooming before you ride. • Fat-tire bikers yield to all other trail users. Bikes have brakes, skis don’t.

Hidden Valley Recreation Area

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Photos: Brett Ross | @elynordic

FAT-TIRE BIKING BASICS Get ready to hit those snowy trails with these essential tips from Discover the Range .

GEAR UP The right gear is your arsenal, making every ride safer and more enjoyable. To fully enjoy fat- tire biking, we recommend the following equipment: 1. Fat-Tire Bike: Look for a bicycle with tires at least 3.8 inches wide. Rent a fat-tire bike at Ely Bike and Kicksled > 2. Winter Cycling Clothes: Layering is key. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating mid-layer, and top it off with a windproof outer shell. 3. Pogies: These handlebar mitts provide extra warmth for your hands without sacrificing dexterity. 4. Sturdy Winter Boots: Regular cycling shoes won’t cut it in deep snow. Opt for insulated winter boots designed for flat pedals. 5. Lights: Winter days are short, so be prepared with both front and rear lights. RIDING TIPS From balance to braking, these riding tips will help you improve your technique and adapt to the snowy conditions of the Northwoods. 1. Lower Your Tire Pressure: For better grip on snow, run your tires at very low pressure, typically between 4-8 PSI. 2. Stay Seated on Climbs: To maintain traction on snowy ascents, keep your weight centered over the rear wheel. 3. Lean into Turns: Fat-tire bikes can be prone to washing out in corners. Lean the bike more than your body to maintain control. 4. Be Prepared: Carry basic tools, a spare tube, and snacks. Winter riding burns more calories than you might expect.

Copy courtesy of Discover the Range. Visit Ironrange.org for more info.

KICKSLEDDING: TR A DITIONAL NORDIC TR AV EL W ITH A MODERN T W IST

Kicksleds have been used in Norway and Sweden since the 1800s, when they were developed out of a need for efficient winter travel. They’re still used for travel today, but modern kicksledding has also become a recreational pastime. Conditions in the area are typically perfect for kicksledding from the first snowfall through early spring. Rent or buy a kicksled from Ely Bike and Kicksled >

WINTER GUIDE

WHAT CAN YOU DO WITH A KICKSLED?

1. Haul gear and supplies. Whether you’re on a multi-day winter camping trip or visiting a friend across the lake, a kicksled is the perfect way to efficiently travel across the snow and ice with gear and supplies. 2. Give young kids a safe sled ride. Kicksledding is safe fun for the whole family! 3. Complete winter chores. Haul firewood, or bring the groceries in during a snowstorm. 4. Mushing. With a properly fitting skijoring harness and an excited canine or two, you have a small dogsled team. Be sure to not add more weight than your dog can safely pull. 5. Get from point A to point B, and everywhere in between. The original intention of the kicksled is still a smart way to use them. Get to your destination quickly without using fossil fuels, while also getting a workout in.

Trezona Trail

SNOWSHOEING It’s true. “If you can walk, you can snowshoe.” Most people do well without any formal training, and it doesn’t require a lot of special skills. Snowshoes are highly maneuverable, allowing one to go places where cross-country skiers and snowmobilers cannot go. There’s no comparing hiking in spring, summer and fall to hiking in the winter snow on snowshoes amidst the quiet serenity of the snow-covered landscape.

Snowshoeing can accommodate a wide variety of activities–a casual hike in the woods, trekking into your favorite fishing spot in the BWCAW, or an overnight winter camping trip.

COLD W E A THER HIKING TIPS

Photo: Duluth Pack

• Check the forecast. Dress and make decisions accordingly. • Pre-plan your route and take a map that you’ve studied in advance. • Wear warm, waterproof, broken-in footwear. • Tell someone where you/your hiking party are going and when you expect to return. Remind them that weather and other factors can cause delays and you may return later than expected. • Allow more time than you think you need to complete the hike before dark, especially with kids and/or inexperienced hikers. Know what time the sun starts to set.

WHAT TO PACK IN YOUR WINTER DAY PACK:

First aid kit Additional layers Sunglasses Hat and gloves/mittens Maps Charged cell phone* Compass Flashlight/headlamp

Food Water in a reusable water bottle Any critical medication Lighter/matches Optional: Binoculars Field guides

*Be aware that you may not have cell phone service on your hike and you should not rely on your cell phone. Get familiar with your route before you go and prepare to be self reliant.

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Snowshoes can be rented at most area outfitters. Outfitter Directory >

Bass Lake Trail

W INTER C A MPING: Q& A W ITH A LOC A L OUTFITTER

with Tim Barton of Piragis Northwoods Company >

How do you travel when winter camping? The three main modes of travel are cross country skis, snowshoes, and by foot. Snow/ice and trail conditions, along with client preference and ability, will dictate modes of travel. Instruction is available for those who wish to either learn a new mode of travel or improve their current skills. Skis and snowshoes are available to rent. What sort of experience do people need to have a successful winter camping trip? They need to have basic camping and outdoor experience. We wouldn’t recommend trying winter camping without any camping experience. Being in decent physical condition is also a necessity. You don’t need to be in top-athlete form, but you need to be able to carry or drag heavy packs through the snow, and traveling through snow is much harder. Be prepared to be adaptable and keep a positive mental attitude.

What are your favorite cold weather camping meals? Chili and tacos, prepared ahead of time.

Do you camp on the ice or on land? Camping on the ice is strongly encouraged by the U.S. Forest Service to reduce campsite overuse. They recommend you only camp near summer sites if you can access the latrine, otherwise camp in wind protected bays at least 200 ft from summer campsites, trails, and portages. Locate campfires on the ice to minimize fire scars. Use base logs or a firepan.

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What special considerations are there for food and water when winter camping? You don’t need to worry about things spoiling during winter camping trips like you do during the summer, so you can even bring stuff like ice cream if you want! But we recommend prepping everything you can beforehand because it’s harder to prepare food in the cold. Gravity water filters won’t work, so you need to drill down through the lake ice to collect water, and then boil it or use iodine tablets. You can melt snow too, but it takes a lot of snow. What are your favorite spots to winter camp? It depends on the type of adventure you want to have. Slim and Hegman Lake are great for beginners because accessibility generally isn’t a concern and you’re never more than two miles from your vehicle. Moose Lake and Fall Lake are great for folks who want to venture further. Those Lakes are frequented by dogsled teams, so you’ll be able to travel further along established, relatively safe routes. But no ice is ever 100% safe. If you’d like to ice-fish a lot, Snowbank and Wood Lakes and Lake One are great spots. What special considerations are there for bringing kids? Plan your trip based on their capabilities. Unless they have a lot of all-season outdoor experience, winter camping may not be the best fit for really young kids. However, this is a great experience to share with them when they’re ready. Try beginner routes first. What about ice safety? If you’re unsure about a spot on the ice, go around it. Know where you are in terms of moving water, which produces thin ice. Know what to do if you fall through. Have detailed conversations with your outfitter ahead of time about safety and location-specific considerations like rivers and spring slush.

What else do you want those considering winter camping to know? It’s a wonderful, quiet, challenging experience. Keep it simple, start small, and know your capabilities and limits. Set your expectations and be prepared to change plans and be flexible. It’s important to leave no trace: pack out all your garbage, don’t cut live vegetation, collect firewood far from shorelines, trails and campsites, bury human and dog waste at least 200 ft from the water, campsites, and trails.

Piragis Website > | Ely.org Outfitter Directory > | USFS Winter Camping Guidelines >

Hidden Valley Recreation Area

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ELY AREA SKI TRAILS

Please leave pets at home when skiing on groomed ski trails. If you are 16 or older, you must have a Great Minnesota Ski Pass to ski on groomed trails in Minnesota state parks or state forests, or on state or grant-in- aid trails. Buy a pass online >

TRAIL NAME

DISTANCE FROM ELY

TRAIL LENGTH

**Bear Head State Park Birch Lake Plantation/Birch Trail Flash Lake Flathorn - Gegoka *Hegman Lake Hidden Valley Trail *North Arm North Junction Secret-Blackstone *South Farm

19 17

Varied 3 2 16 + 2 + Varied 32 + 17 + 5 + 7.5 + 21 4

20 35 15 1/2 14 7 20 7.5 22 1/2

*Thomas Lake Trezona Trail

* Advanced backcountry Wilderness travel skills needed for portions of these trails. BWCAW self issue permit required. ** A state park sticker or day pass is required to access trails within Bear Head Lake State Park. NOTE: All distances are in miles. If multiple loop options are available, + will be shown by the trail miles.

ELY FOLK SCHOOL: NORTH WOODS SKILLS, CR A FTS & COMMUNITY Ely Folk School’s Mission is to build community by providing learning experiences that celebrate the wilderness heritage, art, history, culture, and craft of the people of northern Minnesota. Their vision is to be a gathering space where all Ely area residents and visitors forge new connections, build a stronger community, and develop as individuals through experiential learning that honors the crafts and cultures of our region.

From blacksmithing and felted sauna hat making classes, to wilderness skills courses, to community dances and bonfires—their calendar has something for everyone!

Visit their website >

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“

Amazing place to learn about living in harmony with the planet, make beautiful arts, crafts, foods and so much more! The instructor was extremely knowledgeable, friendly and passionate about the topic. I definitely would plan a vacation to Ely around a class or classes at Ely Folk School!

- Stacie E.

“

Ely Folk School staff is top notch and the class I took (Herbal Infused Oils and Salves) was very informative and exciting! Can’t wait to attend another class!

- Debbie C.

“

When I walk in the doors, the atmosphere is cozy and inviting, and the space is great for community events. I’ve taken some cool classes like the Massepan Puukko class and a fun ceramics class. Both classes helped me make items I continually use. I love the events they host, like the Anishinaabe storytelling nights, and they always throw a great potluck.

- Noa R.

Visit the Ely Folk School website >

ICE FISHING

Outfitter Favorite: Snowbank Lake Fish for lake trout, walleye and northern pike on the edge of the BWCAW. Cross over to the BWCAW side of Snowbank Lake on foot, skis, or snowshoes for a true wilderness experience (requires a self issue permit). Engines and motors are not allowed on the BWCAW side of the lake any time of year. Outfitter Directory >

Ice Fishing Outfitting Many area outfitters offer ice-fishing packages, and some offer ice house rentals. Whether you need a few items, or full trip outfitting, browse our directory .

Photo: Arrowhead Outdoors

Photo: Voyageur North Outfitting

View the USFS BWCA Trip Planning Guide >

WINTER GUIDE

WINTER TRAVEL SAFETY TIPS When driving throughout the Superior National Forest in the winter, there are some additional safety considerations to keep in mind. • Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle. • Be aware that some back roads are not plowed frequently or at all. • Bring a flashlight or headlamp to save cell batteries for emergencies. • Be aware that some areas may not have cell coverage. • Stay far back from snowplows and do not pass them. • Travel at or below posted speeds, especially in inclement weather.

• Bridge decks and road curves can be slick. • 4WD is recommended but not necessary.

W HERE CRE A TI V ITY MEETS THE NORTH W OODS Ely:

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The Northern Lakes Arts Association (NLAA) invites you to explore the creative heart of Ely, Minnesota and the Arrowhead region. As a hub for the arts and culture in this vibrant community, NLAA offers a wide range of programs and performances that captivate visitors and locals alike. From engaging theater productions during their Broadway in the Boundary Waters Season and unforgettable concerts in their Northern Lakes Concert Series to hands-on workshops and youth arts programs, NLAA brings the beauty and inspiration of the arts to life. Whether you’re a lifelong arts enthusiast or a curious traveler seeking an authentic cultural experience, our programming has something for everyone. Immerse yourself in the creativity of the Northwoods. Discover the stories, sounds, and sights that make Ely a destination not just for its natural beauty, but for its thriving arts scene. NLAA celebrates the intersection of culture and community, ensuring that your visit is as enriching as it is memorable. When you support or participate in NLAA programs, you help sustain the arts in this region, creating opportunities for artists, enriching the lives of locals, and adding a lively experience to your Northwoods adventure.

Events Schedule & More Information >

ICE & COLD WATER SAFETY Enjoying time on the ice in the winter is a great way to explore our area, but ice safety must be observed. Ice is never 100% safe, and cold water can kill. Remember: if you take unnecessary risks on the ice, you put first responders at risk too. Use common sense, know the ice thickness, carry the right gear, and know what to do if you fall through the ice.

ICE SAFETY GEAR

WHAT DO YOU DO IF YOU FALL THROUGH THE ICE? Don’t remove your winter clothing. Heavy clothes won’t drag you down, but instead can trap air to provide warmth and flotation. Turn toward the direction you came. That’s probably the strongest ice. Place your hands and arms on the unbroken surface. This is where a pair of ice picks come in handy. Kick your feet and dig in your ice picks to work your way back onto the solid ice. If your clothes have trapped a lot of water, you may have to lift yourself partially out of the water on your elbows to let the water drain before starting forward. Lie flat on the ice once you are out and roll away from the hole to keep your weight spread out. Get to a warm, dry, sheltered area and re-warm yourself immediately. In moderate to severe cases of cold water hypothermia, you must seek medical attention. Cold blood trapped in your extremities can come rushing back to your heart after you begin to re-warm. The shock of the chilled blood may cause serious health issues. For more cold water safety info, click here >

ICE THICKNESS GUIDELINES (FOR NEW, CLEAR ICE) →

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Information provided by the MN DNR

DRIVING ON THE ICE Driving on the ice isn’t recommended by the U.S. Forest Service - Superior National Forest. If you do decide to drive on the ice, it’s important to remember that no ice is never 100% safe, and ice thickness can vary drastically on a single body of water. Ice driving safety tips from the MN DNR:

• Stay on plowed ice roads whenever possible. • Talk to local experts about ice conditions and known hazards. • Roll down windows and unlock doors.

• Bring a life jacket or buoyant gear and ice picks in your car. Do NOT wear the life jacket or buoyant gear inside your vehicle. It could make escaping the vehicle very difficult if you break through the ice. • Have a simple emergency escape plan you have discussed with passengers. • Don’t override your headlights. • Avoid pressure ridges, channels, and under bridges. • Park >50 ft away from other vehicles and move your vehicle every two hours.

WINTER BIRDING Birdwatching and photography in the wintertime is a beloved area pastime. While some birds migrate to warmer climates in cold months, there are many that stay active—their dark and brightly colored feathers punctuating the magical Northwoods snowscape.

BLACK-CAPPED CHICKADEE

PILEATED WOODPECKER

CANADA JAY

CROSSBILL

SPRUCE GROUSE

GREAT GREY OWL

BLUE JAY

RAVEN

GREAT BOHEMIAN WAXWING

RED POLL

BALD EAGLE

Photos: Jim Schwartz | @elyminnesotaphotography

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Superior National Forest Birding Maps & Info >

“

“ I just love Ely’s winter birds, the true definition of hardy. This male Pine Grosbeak is finding a beautiful breakfast on this frosty morning, hence the frosted feathers.

- Jim Schwartz of Ely Minnesota Photography

welcome SNO WMOBILERS!

The Ely area is northern Minnesota’s premier snowmobile hub with numerous on-trail facilities: accommodations for both large and small groups, and plenty of food, entertainment, and service centers. The Taconite Trail is the main thoroughfare in and out of Ely in the winter. Stretching 170 miles between Ely and Grand Rapids to the southwest, the Taconite trail’s many spur routes will take you just about anywhere you want to go. The Tomahawk Trail, heading to the east, has 86 miles of varied terrain which the avid snowmobiler can use to connect with hundreds of miles more of groomed trails.

Spur trails like the Fishing Lake, Stony, Taconite, or Little Grassy and miles and miles of lake trails create a seemingly endless ride.

Ely snowmobile trails stretch across three state forests as well as the Superior National Forest. Smooth rides along these famous routes are loaded with history and beautiful views. Here in the Ely area, the trails work closely with the natural terrain offering one of the most scenic trail rides in the state. View Snowmobile trail info from the MN DNR >

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Looking for an exciting intermediate to advanced level trail ride? Try the new Circle Tour ride! This self-guided, 3-5 day tour encompasses over 400 miles of pristine wilderness and awesome trails. Perfect for those looking for a longer ride. Day 1: Ride from Ely to Grand Marais Day 2: Grand Marais to Atikokan Day 3: Trip around Atikokan Trails Day 4: Atikokan to Ely Visit our website for info about crossing into Canada by sled, trail conditions, maps, rentals, license, and more >

WOLVES Researchers are discovering more about wolves every year. Direct observation of these complex and intelligent animals, advances in genetics, and sophisticated tracking devices have unlocked many secrets. But much about the wolf remains a mystery, and the adage “Never say ‘Never,’” and never say “Always” when the subject is wolves is still true.

Information provided by the International Wolf Center

W OLF Q& A What is a wolf pack? A wolf pack is a cohesive family unit consisting of the adult parents and their offspring of the current year and perhaps the previous year or two. Other unrelated wolves may sometimes join the pack. How many pups are born in a pack each year? An average litter size for gray and red wolves is 4 to 6, but sometimes fewer pups are born and sometimes more. Several or all may die if food is not readily available, or from diseases such as distemper and canine parvovirus.

How big is a wolf’s track? About 4.5 inches long by 3.5 inches wide. In comparison, a coyote’s track will be closer to 2.5 inches long by 1.5 inches wide. Only a few breeds of dogs leave tracks longer than 4 inches (Great Danes, St. Bernards, and some bloodhounds).

What do wolves eat? Gray wolves prey primarily on ungulates – large, hoofed mammals such as white-tailed deer and moose. Medium-sized mammals, such as beaver and snowshoe hares, can be an important secondary food source. Occasionally wolves will prey on birds or small mammals such as mice and voles, but these are supplementary to their requirements for large amounts of meat.

More Wolf Info >

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Photo by Eric Sherman | Eric Sherman Images >

Photo taken at the International Wolf Center Photo by Matheus De Mesquita Silveira | @mmsjedi

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AREA ATTRACTIONS The International Wolf Center advances the survival of wolf populations by teaching about wolves, their relationship to wildlands, and the human role in their future.

“Our response to controversies as they arise is to provide information that helps people to make their own informed decisions. We pledge to educate the public by offering the most up- to-date, accurate wolf information possible.” - Wolf.org

Photos: Kelly Godfrey for the International Wolf Center | @intlwolfcenter

Education may not translate into immediate action, but it does result in reevaluation and change. As people gain knowledge and appreciation of wolves and their place as predators in the ecosystem, they can become invested in wolf survival and recovery. Decades of research have unveiled multitudes of facts about this species. That research, used in public education, has motivated people to help and to allow wolves to begin reclaiming small portions of their former habitat. “We who want knowledge about wolves need clear, thoughtful presentation of the facts and issues involved. That is exactly what the International Wolf Center seeks to provide. The study of wolf survival continues to include the study of human tolerance. It is hard for people to tolerate or to respect what they are raised to fear. The wolf problem is a people problem. We need everyone’s help to solve it.” - Wolf.org The International Wolf Center has numerous programs that enhance both in-person and Online educational experiences. Their ambassador wolves reinforce our educational messages by creating a connection with each one of their visitors. Visit their website to take a look at the variety of programs they have so you can plan your visit!

AREA ATTRACTIONS

Ely’s Historic State Theater Operating a state-of-the-art facility with two movie screens and a 200+-person live-events theater space, Ely’s Historic State Theater is a cultural hub for the community. They believe everyone should be able to come enjoy a movie, so they’ve made it a mission to keep ticket prices low. Catch a movie or two during your stay, or plan your trip around one of their concerts or live events! The State Theater was built in 1936. Its designer was a noted architecture firm called Liebenberg & Kaplan, who had designed many theaters in Minnesota and other northern states. In 2008, the recession caused the State Theater to close its doors to the public. By 2014, The State Theater had fallen into disrepair. It was purchased and the meticulous work of restoring the interior and exterior to its original condition began.

Visit their website and follow them on social to learn more.

Ely-Winton History Museum Located in Vermilion Community College, this museum features changing displays of local photos, artifacts, and articles that tell a story about the area. Click here for hours and more info. USFS - Kawishiwi Ranger District Office & Interpretive Center The building is a LEED (Leadership Environmental Energy Design) facility. What this means is the design of the building used practices such as: using local materials, using recycled materials or materials that can be recycled, use of energy efficient automatic lights that turn off when no one is in the room, low water flow in the toilets, landscaping around the building that filters the rainwater before entering into the streets or surrounding areas, use of low-emission carpet and paint This office also hosts a wonderful interpretive center where you can enjoy firsthand some the experiences that you’ll find within the Superior National Forest. Visit their website and follow them on social for more info.

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AREA ATTRACTIONS

Ely Folk School The Ely Folk School is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to build community by providing learning experiences that celebrate the heritage, art, history, cultures, and craft of the people of Northern Minnesota and beyond. “We work with instructors whose passion and skills align with our mission. It is our honor to provide the facilities and infrastructure to help teachers share their knowledge, thus building our community. We offer both on-site and virtual classes, with topics ranging from snowshoe weaving to homemade Slovenian Potica.” - ElyFolkSchool.org Class Examples: Himmeli (traditional Finnish ornaments) | Needle Felting Maasepän Puukko (a basic blacksmith knife) | Colwick Cheese | Sewing Traditional Slovenian Potica | Basket Weaving

Classes | Events | Membership-Based Ceramics Studio

Visit their website and follow them on social to learn more.

Listening Point The Listening Point Foundation is a non-profit dedicated to preserving the physical land known as Listening Point and advancing Sigurd Olson’s wilderness philosophy. Residing in Ely most of his life, Sigurd traveled and guided the Quetico-Superior. It was here that Sigurd was convinced the wilderness provided spiritual experiences vital to modern civilization, kick-starting his conversation & writing careers. His conservation work began in the 1920s as he defended the Quetico-Superior area from development. Thrusting Sigurd into the front lines of conservation work in the 1940s, he fought to ban airplanes from flying into this wild and thriving area of northern Minnesota. Listening Point, located on the south arm of Burntside Lake, was Sigurd and Elizabeth Olson’s retreat in the north woods just outside of Ely. The Listening Point property was named to the National Register of Historic Places in 2008. Listening point hosts tours seasonally and specially events all year round. Visit their website and follow them on social to learn more.

SPRING & SUMMER GUIDE

@castoutdoor

@elyminnesotaphotography

@spiritofthewildernessoutfitter

@corvidimages

@jonlaxen

@visitelymn

@castoutdoor

@elyminnesotaphotography

@visitelymn #visitelymn

@weecabins

@internationalwolfcenter

RESOURCES - CLICK ON THE LINKS BELOW FOR MORE INFO

Superior National Forest Kawishiwi Ranger District - Office & Interpretive Center located at 1393 MN-169, Ely Superior National Forest Info BWCAW Info & Permits Maps

Directory of Outfitters & Guides Current Information & Conditions

Ely.org Online Business Directory - Lodging, Dining, Outfitters & Guides, Shopping, More Online Event Calendar - From large annual events to local happenings

Foraging & Hunting Foraging Rules & Regulations Hunting Rules, Regulations & Seasons Schedules

TR A SH BURIED UNDER SNO W RESURF ACES IN THE SPRING!

Snowmobiling Trail Maps Igloo Snowmobile Club

Be considerate to other visitors, residents, wildlife, our environment, and Forest Service staff: clean up after yourself on the ice, on the trail, and at your campsite. Nobody likes a litterbug. Ice fishing: It is illegal to leave any garbage or waste on or under the ice. Trash must be kept in your ice house or in a container on the ice, and packed out.

Fat-Tire Biking Hidden Valley Mountain Bike Trail Map Mesabi Trail Map Mesabi Trail Wheels Pass Info Ely Bike and Kicksled

Lodging & Outfitting Lodging Directory Outfitter Directory

HO W YOU C A N HELP:

If you pack it in, pack it out.

Take extra care to check around your ice house for trash before removing it.

Maps Bass Lake Hiking Trail Secret/Blackstone Lake Hiking Trail Ely.org Hiking Guide

Don’t leave trash unsecured.

Report violations to your local MN DNR Conservation officer.

WINTER GUIDE

ELY: THE BEST OF EVERY SEASON

YOUR fall color HEADQUARTERS

@VisitElyMN

VisitElyMN.org

summer adventures PLAN YOUR SUMMER TRIP > ELY: THE BEST OF EVERY SEASON

@VisitElyMN

VisitElyMN.org

See you soon!

Created in 2024 by the Ely Area Tourism Bureau in partnership with the Superior National Forest. The U.S. Department of Agriculture is an equal opportunity provider.

Photos courtesy of the Ely Area Tourism Bureau (unless otherwise indicated).

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