Stay & Adventure at Canoe On Inn in Ely, MN - Duluth, Minnesota

Stay & Adventure at Canoe On Inn in Ely, MN

Duluth, Minnesotaeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

Varies depending on activity (overnight stays to week-long trips)

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels due to the inn’s accessible lodging; outdoor activity intensity varies by chosen adventure.

Overview

Canoe On Inn offers practical, welcoming lodging options in Ely, Minnesota—your perfect base for Boundary Waters adventures and year-round outdoor fun.

Details

Situated in Ely, Minnesota, a gateway town to the famed Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), Canoe On Inn offers visitors a straightforward and comfortable home base for an array of outdoor adventures. Known for its crisp northern air and dense boreal forests, Ely is a hub for paddlers, hikers, snowmobilers, and wildlife watchers alike. Canoe On Inn reflects this spirit by catering to travelers who seek practical lodging close to nature’s doorstep without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

The property provides a variety of accommodations ranging from cozy economy rooms to spacious family suites, making it ideal for solo adventurers, couples, and families eager to unwind after a day in the wilderness. Guests frequently praise the cleanliness of the rooms and the warm friendliness of the staff, who go the extra mile to assist with early check-ins and other needs—an appreciated touch after long hours spent trekking or paddling nearby.

Canoe On Inn stands out for its location, offering direct accessibility to snowmobile trails in the winter and close proximity to downtown Ely’s shops and eateries year-round. This enables travelers to blend outdoor recreation with local culture seamlessly. The lodging is also dog-friendly, welcoming those who like to bring their pets along for fresh-air adventures.

The inn's simplicity, comfort, and genuine hospitality complement the rugged outdoor experiences the Ely region promises—from towering pine forests to vast lakes and rivers that shimmer through the seasons. Whether you're gearing up for a spring paddle, a summer hike, an autumn scenic drive, or a winter snowmobile ride, Canoe On Inn places you at the heart of Minnesota’s wild northlands with a reliable, welcoming base camp waiting for your return.

Adventure Tips

Book Early for Peak Seasons

Ely sees a surge in visitors during summer and winter; reserve rooms in advance to secure your preferred accommodations.

Check Trail Conditions Before You Go

Snowmobile and hiking trails can vary each season; verify current conditions locally to plan your routes effectively.

Pack Layers for Variable Weather

Northern Minnesota weather shifts quickly—dress in moisture-wicking, insulating layers for comfort from morning chill to midday sun.

Bring Your Own Meals or Dine in Ely

The inn offers easy access to downtown Ely’s restaurants, but having snacks or meals handy means more time outdoors.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Echo Trail hiking section for quiet backcountry solitude
  • Fall Lake Scenic Area for less crowded paddling routes

Wildlife

  • White-tailed deer
  • Bald eagles

History

Ely was established as a logging town in the late 19th century and evolved as a gateway to the BWCAW when it was designated in 1926.

Conservation

Visitors are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles to protect Ely’s pristine forests and waterways, critical to local biodiversity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour at sunrise and sunset
Mid-morning for wildlife activity

Best Viewpoints

  • Shagawa Lake shoreline
  • Downtown Ely waterfront park
  • Lookout points along the Echo Trail

What to Photograph

Lakes and river reflections
Northern forest wildlife
Rustic town architecture

Recommended Gear

Weather-Appropriate Clothing

Essential

Layered clothing keeps you comfortable during fluctuating northern Minnesota weather.

all specific

Bug Spray

Essential

Protects against mosquitoes and other insects common near water and in forested areas.

spring|summer|fall specific

Snow Boots

Essential

Important for warmth and traction on snow and ice when accessing winter trails.

winter specific

Water Bottle

Essential

Staying hydrated is crucial, whether you’re hiking, paddling, or snowmobiling.

all specific

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