easy
Varies depending on activity (overnight stays to week-long trips)
Suitable for all fitness levels due to the inn’s accessible lodging; outdoor activity intensity varies by chosen adventure.
Canoe On Inn offers practical, welcoming lodging options in Ely, Minnesota—your perfect base for Boundary Waters adventures and year-round outdoor fun.
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.
Ely sees a surge in visitors during summer and winter; reserve rooms in advance to secure your preferred accommodations.
Snowmobile and hiking trails can vary each season; verify current conditions locally to plan your routes effectively.
Northern Minnesota weather shifts quickly—dress in moisture-wicking, insulating layers for comfort from morning chill to midday sun.
The inn offers easy access to downtown Ely’s restaurants, but having snacks or meals handy means more time outdoors.
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.
Visitors are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles to protect Ely’s pristine forests and waterways, critical to local biodiversity.
Layered clothing keeps you comfortable during fluctuating northern Minnesota weather.
all specific
Protects against mosquitoes and other insects common near water and in forested areas.
spring|summer|fall specific
Important for warmth and traction on snow and ice when accessing winter trails.
winter specific
Staying hydrated is crucial, whether you’re hiking, paddling, or snowmobiling.
all specific