AUTUMN ADVENTURE GUIDE
Created by the Ely Area Tourism Bureau in partnership with the Superior National Forest
AUTUMN IN ELY
Prepare to be captivated by the brilliant fall colors that grace Ely each year. Dense forests and shimmering 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!
This guide was created to help you plan your Autumn Ely area adventure. Scroll through or click on any of the sections below.
SUPERIOR NATIONAL FOREST OVERVIEW | AUTUMN FLORA & FUNGI SCAVENGER HUNT
BWCAW GUIDE | DARK SKIES | FALL CAMPING | SELF RELIANCE IN THE WILDERNESS
FEATURED FALL COLOR CAMPGROUND | BRINGING YOUR DOG | PAVED-TRAIL BIKING
MOUNTAIN BIKING | HIKING CHECKLIST | HIKING GUIDE | DISCOVERY AUTO TOUR
COLD WATER SAFETY | PADDLE & PONTOON | ELY STATE THEATER | ATV IN AUTUM N WILDLIFE | LISTENING POINT | LEAVE NO TRACE | AREA ATTRACTIONS | PODCASTS
RESOURCES | SUMMER HEADQUARTERS | WINTER MAGIC
A K A LEIDOSCOPE
OF V I V ID HUES AND BRE ATHTA KING SCENERY AWA ITS
Early October on the Echo Trail, Ely
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.
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.
Ely, MN
BWCAW (within the Superior National Forest)
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. 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
AUTUMN FLORA & FUNGI SCAVENGER HUNT ON THE SUPERIOR NATIONAL FOREST
Screenshot this page and go fall flora hunting! Bonus challenge: take a photo of each different item you find, post to social, and tag @visitelymn —we’d love to see your pics!
Tamarack Trees
One of the last trees to turn colors, the Tamarack tree is the only conifer that sheds all of its needles each year. Tamarack trees can be found in boggy soils. To locate, try a drive down Highway 1 or the Echo Trail.
Bush Honeysuckle
Bush honeysuckle is a native species, not related to non-native honeysuckles. It turns a vibrand red early in the autumn season. To locate, look along roadsides and in clearings—often under young aspen stands.
Paper Birch Trees
The leaves of these trees turn a vivid golden hue in the fall. Native Americans have used birch bark for many years to make canoes, wigwams, baskets, and other items. To locate, try a hike to Kawishiwi Falls.
Mushrooms
Pictured: Common Laccaria, which are found in forests of all types, with a preference for pine forests. They grow in a symbiotic relationship with a tree’s roots. Never eat a mushroom unless you can positively identify it.
Maple Trees
Flashes of orange and red from Maple trees punctuate area scenery. Maple trees grow from 60-90 feet tall and can reach 150 years old. To locate, take a stroll through residential streets in Ely or visit South Kawishiwi Campground.
In Ely, fall colors generally peak in late September, with the show lasting from mid-September to early October. Check out the MN DNR Fall Color Finder >
Mid October on the Little Indian Sioux River, BWCAW Entry Point 14
Don’t underestimate the beauty and peace of an autumn trip to Ely after peak fall colors! Plan for colder temps, slow down, and enjoy the change of seasons.
Planning a trip into the BWCAW?
Download the USDA Forest Service Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness Trip Planning Guide >
It’s packed with everything you need to know— from permit information to smart and safe Wilderness travel information to sample trip itineraries. Click here to view and download the guide >
The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is an International Dark Sky Sanctuary.
A Dark Sky Sanctuary is land that has an exceptional or distinguished quality of starry nights and a nocturnal environment that is protected for its scientific, natural, or educational value, its cultural heritage, and/or public enjoyment.
AUTUMN CAMPING
Fall is a fantastic time to explore Ely’s lakes and rivers and relax by a crackling campfire. With summer crowds and the bugs dwindling, you can truly experience the peacefulness of the autumn season. Whether you prefer the comfort of an RV or camper, or a traditional tent experience under a canopy of colorful leaves, Ely has the perfect fit for all camping styles.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a backpacking trip into the BWCAW. Taking in the vibrant fall foliage from a remote lake is an unforgettable experience. Remember, a permit and specialized gear are required for BWCAW camping . Plan your trip well in advance and seek guidance from an area outfitter or the Kawishiwi Ranger District Office , especially if it’s your first time venturing into the wilderness.
October at
The Superior National Forest has four types of camping opportunities outside of the BWCAW: Fee Campgrounds, Rustic Campgrounds, Backcountry Campsites, and Dispersed Camping. VIEW MAPS & MORE INFO >
Early
the South Kawishiwi River Campground
SELF-RELIANCE IN THE WILDERNESS
When camping in the BWCAW and other remote areas, it’s important to plan for many different types scenarios with a commitment to self-reliance. Carry and know how to use the right supplies and gear to handle most situations yourself, plan your trip according to your limits and experience level, and only utilize emergency services in a true life-threatening emergency. Search and rescue operations put rescuers at risk.
TECHNOLOGY IN THE WILDERNESS
If you choose to bring technology such as cell phones into the BWCAW and other remote areas of the Superior National Forest, consider only using those devices for relevant information such as weather and/or wildfire updates and be aware and courteous of other visitors. Enjoy unplugging and connecting with nature!
Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Drone operation is prohibited in the BWCAW.
FOLLOW SUPERIOR NATIONAL FOREST ON FLICKR
Real-time fall color updates, wildlife pics, and more!
VISIT THE SUPERIOR NATIONAL FOREST WEBSITE IN SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER FOR FALL COLOR UPDATES >
FEATURED CAMPGROUND - SOUTH KAWISHIWI RIVER
This campground offers a variety of opportunities for campers including fishing, hiking, mountain biking, canoeing, boating, and bird watching. Sites sit well above the river. The rentable historic log pavilion was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1933. This campground features 31 campsites (24 with electrical hookups), a picnic area and swimming beach on the South Kawishiwi River, a boat landing, and hiking trail. Click here for reservations.
TIPS FOR TENT CAMPING IN COLDER WEATHER
Check the temperature rating of your sleeping bag and ensure it’s suitable for expected lows. Add a liner for extra warmth if needed. A good sleeping pad insulates you from the cold ground, consider a double pad for chilly overnight temps. Get your gear from Ely Outfitters >
Dress in layers and bring extra wool socks and warm footwear. Pack rain gear and winter hats and gloves or mittens. Purchase or gather ample firewood from nearby. Make sure your menu includes hot food and beverages. Snow in October isn’t uncommon!
Kawishiwi River
BRINGING YOUR FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS
Ely is a great place to adventure with your dog, but there are some things to keep in mind in order to keep them and wildlife safe, and to preserve our natural areas for other visitors.
ALWAYS KEEP YOUR DOG WITHIN SIGHT TO PREVENT ENCOUNTERS WITH WILDLIFE.
NEVER LEAVE YOUR DOG ON A TIE-OUT UNSUPERVISED.
DON’T ALLOW YOUR DOG TO DIG HOLES, LEAVE THE TRAIL, OR DAMAGE PLANT LIFE.
DOGS ARE NOT ALLOWED IN ELY’S WHITESIDE PARK BY POLICE ORDINANCE.
IN MINNESOTA STATE PARKS, ONLY SERVICE ANIMALS ARE ALLOWED IN BUILDINGS, LODGING, CABINS, CAMPER CABINS, YURTS, ON TOURS, OR IN BEACH AREAS.
IN MINNESOTA STATE PARKS, DOGS MUST BE KEPT ON A LEASH OF 6 FEET OR LESS .
IN DEVELOPED AREAS OF THE SUPERIOR NATIONAL FOREST, DOGS MUST BE ON A LEASH OF 6 FEET OR LESS AT ALL TIMES (UNLESS YOU ARE PARTICIPATING IN AN ACTIVE HUNT). DEVELOPED SITES: CAMPSITES, BOAT LANDINGS, HIKING TRAILS, PORTAGES, AND FISHING PIERS.
IN TOWN AND ON THE TREZONA AND MESABI TRAILS, KEEP YOUR DOG LEASHED. EVEN IF YOUR DOG IS NON-REACTIVE, OTHERS MAY NOT BE.
PICK UP AFTER YOUR DOG. WHEN IN THE BWCAW, DISPOSE OF POO IN A LATRINE OR AT LEAST 150 FEET FROM WATER SOURCES, CAMPSITES, PORTAGES AND TRAILS.
During hunting season, make sure you and your pets are wearing blaze orange when on state and private lands. Keep your pets within sight at all times.
Photo of Conway by Lauren
Mesabi Trail
Photo and map courtesy of the Mesabi Trail
PAVED-TRAIL BIKING
The Trezona Trail
Considered an easy trail, this scenic 3.9-mile loop around Miner’s Lake is right in Ely. Take a leisurely peddle around the lake, stopping for a tour at the Pioneer Mine Museum, and then bike to town for shopping and lunch. Click here for bike rentals.
The Mesabi Trail
Don’t miss northern Minnesota’s most wild and scenic paved trail experience—explore the Mesabi Trail! Connecting 28 communities over 162 miles, the Mesabi Trail is a cycling adventure unlike anywhere else. For a directory of local businesses where you can purchase a Wheel Pass locally, click here.
“ The Mesabi Trail is a terrific trail. Scenic, paved, and rolling. Coming from Ohio, the trail was so good we came back the next year.”
- Heather Caruso “ “
- Mary P. “ I’ve been on so many bike trails in Minnesota, and the Mesabi Trail is by far my favorite! It has curves, hills, and stunning scenery.
Photo courtesy of the Mesabi Trail
MOUNTA IN BIKING LIKE NO W HERE ELSE
The Ely area offers several opportunities for mountain biking with routes to suit various skill levels and interests. For the true adventurer, the possibilities are virtually unlimited as the terrain ranges from good gravel roads to purpose-built singletrack. Mountain Biking in Ely >
HIDDEN VALLEY RECREATION AREA
Whether you like to get airborne or keep the rubber on the ground, Hidden Valley mountain bike trails feature 8+ miles of purpose-built singletrack, with everything from a beginner level skills course to the Ely Airlines jump line. Progressive loops include epic climbs through majestic pines, fast flowy downhills and challenging rock features. Most trails are groomed for winter fat biking. Connections to the paved Trezona and Mesabi Trails as well as endless gravel riding through the Superior National Forest.
Learn More >
AUTUMN HIKING IN ELY
Embark on a trek through Ely’s scenic trails. Traverse winding paths through towering forests and picturesque landscapes. Breathe in the cool autumn air as you hike to overlooks with panoramic views. Stop and enjoy a picnic surrounded by an autumn masterpiece.
Take in the fall colors immersed in a landscape formed by glaciers that retreated more than 10,000 years ago. Plan ahead, watch the weather, bring a smartly-stocked day pack and
TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL HIKE
• Check the forecast. Dress and make decisions accordingly. Pre-plan your route and take a map that you’ve studied in advance.
• Know area flora and fauna.
• Wear reliable, 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.
WHAT TO PACK IN YOUR DAY PACK:
• Allow more time than you think you need to complete the hike before dark, especially with kids and/or inexperienced hikers.
Additional layers if necessary
Hat
Maps
Charged cell phone*
Compass
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.
“The world reveals itself to those who travel on foot.”
- Werner Herzog
Bass Lake Trail
Kawishiwi Falls Trail
ELY AREA HIKING GUIDE
*Angleworm
Bass Lake
**Bear Head State Park
Birch Lake Plantation/Birch Trail
Fenske Lake
Fire & Ice - Meander Lake Trail
Hidden Valley Trail
Kawishiwi Falls Trail
North Arm
*S. Kawishiwi River
Secret-Blackstone
Snowbank Lake
*South Farm
Trezona Trail
* Some trails travel into or through the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and may require a day use or overnight travel permit. Click here for permit process details. You may be asked to produce your permit to a Forest Service Wilderness Ranger.
** 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. Click
DISCO V ERY AUTO TOUR
The Discovery Auto Tour is a self-guided driving tour that includes two routes on the Kawishiwi and LaCroix Ranger Districts of the Superior National Forest. The tour provides an easy way to explore some of the natural and cultural history of the Forest and the many recreation opportunities along the way.
This “signed” tour is a partnership between the USDA Forest Service and the Lake Vermilion Resort Association. A 40-page guide book that includes the map shown on the preceding page, along with a description of each site, is available for purchase at the Kawishiwi Ranger District office in Ely, LaCroix Ranger District Office in Cook, and at Lake Vermilion resorts.
ECHO TRAIL TOUR (Cook, Buyck, Ely and Tower via the Echo Trail) covers approximately 135 miles. Allow 6-7 hours to complete.
VERMILION FALLS TOUR (Cook, Buyck, Cusson and Orr via the Vermilion Falls Road) covers approximately 80 miles. Allow 4-5 hours to complete.
Visit the Kawishiwi Ranger District office in Ely for more information, or call (218) 365-7600
COLD WATER SAFETY
Falling into icy water can be deadly. Wearing your life jacket could be the single most important factor in surviving cold water immersion.
ALWAYS WEAR A LIFE JACKET!
Even if you’re a “strong swimmer”. Even if you’re with others. Even if you think you’re invincible. Even if you are staying close to shore. Just wear the life jacket. Over 30 percent of boating fatalities in Minnesota happen in cold water with a victim not wearing a life jacket. Set a good example for those around you and think of the safety of everyone involved in your rescue/recovery should you inadvertently enter the water. There is no excuse not to wear a life jacket when boating in cold and/or rapidly moving water.
Did you know some life jackets can lose their buoyancy over time? Foam life jackets typically have a lifespan of about ten years. Check for signs of wear and tear and test buoyancy before your trip. Most area outfitters sell and rent life jackets if you’re in need of a replacement.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU CAPSIZE OR GO OVERBOARD
Stay with the boat. Try to re-board. If you can’t, do not attempt to swim unless to a nearby boat or floating object.
1-10-1 PRINCIPLE: IF WEARING A LIFE JACKET, THE 1-10-1 PRINCIPLE MAY SAVE YOUR LIFE!
1 MINUTE
• Get breathing under control 10 MINUTES OF MEANINGFUL MOVEMENT
• Assess the situation and make a plan
• Perform most important functions first, such as locating other party members
• Self-rescue if possible
• Signal or call for help
1 HOUR (OR MORE) OF USEFUL CONSCIOUSNESS
• Focus on slowing heat loss by assuming the heat escape lessening position (H.E.L.P.): cross ankles, cross arms over chest, keep hands high on the shoulders or neck, draw knees to chest, lean back and try to relax. If more than one person is in the water, huddle together.
Source: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/watertrails/paddling_safety.html
Cold water canoeing on the Kawishiwi River in the fall
FEATURED AUTUMN PADDLE
Ed Shave Lake
A drive up the Echo Trail north of Ely will take you along the southern edge of 90acre Ed Shave Lake, with granite cliffs, water scenes, and an autumn forest of pine and hardwoods. This small lake is easy to canoe, and the autumn-color view from the water is even better than a drive by the lake.
FEATURED AUTUMN PONTOON RIDE
Burntside Lake
One of the most picturesque area lakes in the fall, Burntside is a wonderful option for a leisurely pontoon ride. Rent a pontoon from an area resort or boat club, pick up some snacks and beverages, and enjoy the afternoon and evening on the water with fall colors as your backdrop. Burntside Lake is a large, deep lake that’s known for it’s fishing, stunning rock features, and has more than 100 islands to take in during your cruise.
Your Boat Club Pontoon Rentals >
INDIE FILMS & DOCUMENTARIES • BLOCKBUSTERS • LIVE MUSIC & THEATER
AFFORDABLE TICKETS • UNIQUE CONCESSIONS • ADULT BEVERAGES
SINCE 1936
Click here for tickets and show times
NORTH W OODS TR A ILS A RE C A LLING
FEATURED TRAIL: PROSPECTORS TRAIL SYSTEM WEST
The Prospectors Trail system uses a combination of forest roads, wooded trails and county road rights-of-way to connect the communities of Ely, Babbitt, Embarrass, Tower and Soudan. The system also ties into the existing Lake County and Cook County ATV trail systems. The trail passes through many different forest types and ecosystems, from the classic North Woods landscape with pine, aspen and ledge outcrops to lowlands, bogs and wetlands. Wildlife is abundant. These trails are maintained by the Prospectors ATV Trail Alliance.
AREA WILDLIFE
Photos: Jim Schwartz | @elyminnesotaphotography
Whether canoeing in the Superior National Forest, relaxing at an area resort, or hiking one of the many trails, you’re bound to encounter some of the wide variety of wild animals that call this area home. Here are some you might see in the spring or summer, if you’re lucky!
PINE MARTEN
GRAY WOLF
RIVER OTTER
WHITE-TAIL DEER
CANADA LYNX
RED FOX
MOOSE
RUBY-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD
MINK
GREAT BLUE HERON
WILDLIFE GUIDELINES
Spotting wildlife is a thrilling part of any trip to the area. But it’s important to remember that these animals are wild and need to stay that way. Observe wildlife from a safe distance and never approach. Follow these common-sense rules to keep yourself and our animals safe.
NEVER APPROACH OR FEED WILD ANIMALS.
DON’T INTERVENE IF YOU FIND A BABY ANIMAL ALONE.
DON’T LEAVE FOOD OUTSIDE, EVEN DURING THE DAY.
DON’T LEAVE DIRTY DISHES SITTING OUT FOR TOO LONG.
WHEN CAMPING, STORE FOOD IN BEAR-PROOF CONTAINERS, A VEHICLE, OR USING PROPER FOOD-HANGING TECHNIQUES.
DON’T CLEAN FISH IN OR NEAR YOUR CAMP.
AFTER EATING, WASH YOUR HANDS AND FACE AWAY FROM THE WATER. IF POSSIBLE, DON’T SLEEP IN THE SAME CLOTHES YOU COOKED/ATE IN.
KEEP ALL FOOD AND SCENTED TOILETRIES OUT OF YOUR TENT.
PROPERLY DISPOSE OF TRASH IN A BEAR-PROOF DUMPSTER OR PACK IT OUT IF IN THE BACKCOUNTRY. NEVER BURN TRASH.
Photos: Jim Schwartz | @elyminnesotaphotography | elyphotography.com
BLACK BEAR
BALD EAGLE
COMMON LOON
Photo by Nick Angus | @nick.angus.photography
Bear Track
Photo: North American Bear Center
BEARS AND HUMANS
Encountering a bear can be a positive, memorable experience. Black bears, by nature, are wary of people and not normally aggressive. They are, however, large, powerful, and surprisingly fastmoving animals. Anyone who encounters a bear should have healthy respect for it, but, at the same time, do not feel that it is an inherent threat.
Take steps to reduce the chances of a bear encounter. Pay attention to certain times or locations where you’re more likely to encounter bears. Watch for bears especially at dawn or dusk, as bears typically feed in the morning and evening. Look ahead on trails and keep an eye open for signs of bear activity, such as scat or tracks and feeding sites.
In areas of dense vegetation or rushing water, periodically clap or give a quick shout to alert nearby bears to your presence. Note that bears use berry patches in late summer (July and August). Pick berries with another person and have a conversation with them, or, if you are alone, play music on your phone’s speakers. These sounds can alert the bear to your presence and reduce the chance that you will surprise the bear. Be respectful of other visitors that want to enjoy nature’s sounds.
Keep your dogs leashed while recreating. Dogs can trigger a defensive response from bears and cause them to chase dogs back to their owners. If you encounter a bear while with your dog, back away and leave the area. Do not try to separate your dog from an entanglement with a bear.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU ENCOUNTER A BEAR IN THE WOODS
If you live or recreate in an area with frequent bear activity, carry bear spray and learn how to use it properly. It is effective.
If you encounter a bear in the woods, back away slowly and give the bear an escape route. Most often, it will flee before you have much time to react.
In the unlikely event that a bear makes contact with you, fight back. Do not play dead.
Do not run from a black bear. Running may prompt the bear to chase and no human can outrun a bear.
AT A CAMPSITE
Don’t feed it. Scare it away. Most bears can be chased away by loud noises, banging pans, yelling, or throwing rocks or pieces of firewood at them.
If a bear stands up, know that it is trying to get a better look or smell—it is not preparing to attack.
If the bear is bold or persistent, use bear spray, aimed at its face. It will likely leave.
In the rare instance that a bear refuses to leave or becomes aggressive, leave the area. Report campsite encounters to campground hosts or the Forest Service.
WOLVES AND HUMANS
Wolves are shy and generally avoid humans. Most people will never see a wolf, let alone have a conflict with one. Wolves can, however, lose their fear of humans through habituation and may approach camping areas, homes, or humans. When this happens, there is an increased possibility for conflict between wolves and humans. Below are guidelines that you can follow to decrease the chance of wolf habituation and conflict while living or visiting wolf country.
CAMPING IN WOLF COUNTRY
• Cook, wash dishes, and store food away from sleeping areas.
• Pack out or dispose of garbage and leftover food properly.
• Suspend food, toiletries, and trash out of reach of any wildlife. Never burn trash.
• Keep children and pets near you at all times.
ARE WOLVES A DANGER TO HUMANS?
Most wolves are not dangerous to humans. It is important to keep wolf attacks in perspective. There is a greater chance of being struck by lightning than being injured by a wolf. The injuries that have occurred were caused by a few wolves that became fearless of humans due to habituation. Nonetheless, like bears and cougars, wolves are instinctive predators that should be kept wild and respected.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU ENCOUNTER A WOLF
While seeing a wolf is a memorable experience, like any other wild animal, you should use caution when they are close. Keep the following things in mind while you are viewing them:
• Do not feed wolves.
• Do not entice wolves to come closer, and do not approach them.
• Leave room for a wolf to escape.
• Do not allow a wolf to approach any closer than 300 feet.
• Keep kids near you and dogs leashed.
If a wolf acts aggressively (growls or snarls) or fearlessly (approaches humans at a close distance without fear) take the following actions:
• Raise your arms and wave them in the air to make yourself look larger.
• Back away slowly; do not turn your back on the wolf.
• Make noise and throw objects at the wolf.
Wolf tracks outside of Ely in November |
Photo by Tyler Olson
“Joys come from simple and natural things: mists over meadows, sunlight on leaves, the path of the moon over water.”
- Sigurd F. Olson
Listening Point
B&W Photos: Listening Point Foundation
LEAVE NO TRACE SEVEN PRINCIPLES
1. Plan ahead and prepare. Know the regulations and special considerations for the area you’ll visit. Prepare for extreme weather, hazards, and emergencies. Schedule your trip to avoid times of high use. Visit in small groups when possible. Consider splitting larger groups into smaller groups. Repackage food to minimize waste. Use a map and compass to eliminate the use of marking paint, rock cairns, or flagging.
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces. Durable surfaces include established trails and campsites, rock, gravel, dry grasses, or snow. Protect riparian areas by camping at least 200 feet from lakes and streams. Good campsites are found, not made. Altering a site is not necessary. In popular areas: concentrate use on existing trails and campsites. Walk single file in the middle of the trail, even when wet or muddy. Keep campsites small. Focus activity in areas where vegetation is absent. In pristine areas: disperse use to prevent the creation of campsites and trails. Avoid places where impacts are just beginning.
3. Dispose of waste properly. Pack it in, pack it out. Inspect your campsite and rest areas for trash or spilled foods. Pack out all trash, leftover food, and litter. When a latrine is not available, deposit solid human waste in catholes dug 6 to 8 inches deep, at least 200 feet from water, camp, and trails. Cover and disguise the cathole when finished. Pack out toilet paper and hygiene products, do not throw anything in latrines. To wash yourself or your dishes, carry water 200 feet away from streams or lakes and use small amounts of biodegradable soap. Scatter strained dishwater.
4. Leave what you find. Preserve the past: examine, but do not touch cultural or historic structures and artifacts. Leave rocks, plants, and other natural objects as you find them. Avoid introducing or transporting non-native species. Do not build structures or furniture or dig trenches.
5. Minimize campfire impacts. Campfires can cause lasting impacts to the backcountry. Use a lightweight stove for cooking and a candle lantern for light. Where fires are permitted, use established fire rings, grates, or pans; or mound fires. Keep fires small. Only use sticks from the ground that can be broken by hand. Burn all wood and coals to ash, put out campfires completely, and scatter cool ashes. Never burn trash.
6. Respect wildlife. Observe wildlife from a distance. Do not follow or approach them. Never feed animals. Feeding wildlife damages their health, alters natural behaviors, and exposes them to predators and other dangers. Protect wildlife and your food by storing rations and trash securely. Keep pets leashed at all times, or leave them at home. Avoid wildlife during sensitive times: mating, nesting, or raising young.
7. Be considerate of others. Respect other visitors and protect the quality of their experience. Be courteous. Yield to others on the trail. Take breaks and camp away from trails and other visitors. Let nature’s sounds prevail. Avoid loud voices and noises.
Photo taken at the International Wolf Center
Photo by Matheus De Mesquita Silveira | @mmsjedi
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 upto-date, accurate wolf information possible.” - Wolf.org
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!
Photos: Kelly Godfrey for the International Wolf Center | @intlwolfcenter
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 Chamber of Commerce
Ely Visitors Center - 1600 E Sheridan St, Ely
Ely Visitors Guide - Area trail maps, business and event information, itineraries
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
ATVs
Trail Maps
Prospector ATV Club
Biking
Hidden Valley Mountain Bike Trail Map
Mesabi Trail Map
Mesabi Trail Wheels Pass Info
More Biking Info
Lodging & Outfitting
Lodging Directory
Outfitter Directory
Maps
Bass Lake Hiking Trail
Secret/Blackstone Lake Hiking Trail
Ely.org Hiking Guide
REDUCING SINGLE-USE PLASTICS WITHIN THE SUPERIOR NATIONAL FOREST
Plastic pollution is a problem within the Superior National Forest. Discarded plastic ends up in our waters and forests, and plastic burned in campfires releases dangerous dioxins.
HOW YOU CAN HELP:
Replace single-use plastic dishes with washable dishes and dish washing supplies.
Use a refillable water bottle. Choose one with a reliable filter if you won’t have a source of potable water for refills. Pack for your trip using reusable bags.
If you bring single-use plastic, pack it out and properly recycle it. Never burn plastic.
Created in 2023 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).