Let’s start with a proper introduction. We’re the Ott family – Gene, Jane, Nick (son) and Danielle, (daughter in law) and we acquired the property in 2000. Originally from Northeast Iowa, we had been scout leaders and Boundary Waters Minnesota camping enthusiasts for several years when the opportunity arose to make a lifestyle change that simply delighted us. Since that time, we have built an outfitting service that, we believe, is one of the best in the area. In addition to outfitting services, we have authentic log cabins, right on Fall Lake for non-campers to experience great fishing and conveniently explore the Ely area.
Our cabins and lodge (with bunkhouse) have an amazing history. The cabins were originally built and located up on Pipestone Bay on Basswood Lake. When Congress declared “The Wilderness Act of 1964, all buildings needed to be either moved or burnt to the ground, restoring the natural wilderness. Shortly after, each log was labeled, deconstructed, floated up through Newton Lake to Fall Lake and put back together, like a complex jigsaw puzzle. Can you imagine the planning and the work to accomplish this?
We’re honored by every guest that chooses Packsack and promise to make every effort to build a wilderness experience that best matches your wishes.
Our operation is twofold: we are a boat and motor fishing lodge on Lac La Croix and we also offer canoe trips into Minnesota’s BWCAW and Ontario’s QUETICO PROVINCIAL PARK. If you don’t see a package that suits your needs, you can rest assured we will provide one for you.
We are proud to be a family owned operation for 80+ years. Let our family introduce yours to the ways of the wilderness in comfort; it would be a pleasure to host you.
Canoe Country Outfitters is conveniently located in downtown Ely, plus we maintain a private canoe base on Moose Lake (20 miles east of Ely). From these two locations we are able to quickly service all area trip starting points. We have outfitted more people and have been under the same family management longer than any other outfitter, so no one can match our experience and knowledge of the area.
Entry permits are required to travel through this area and we’ll make the application in your behalf. These permits are very limited, so early planning is a must.
A colored brochure, rates, and free map will be sent upon request. We look forward to assisting you in setting up a trip!
Lakeland Motel has been in business since 1952, we’re a small motel with clean and comfortable rooms for reasonable rates. The rooms are small with a northwoods feel that a lot of people expect from the area we call home, Ely Minnesota. The rates run from $50 to $120 per night depending on room size and the number of people. Please call us at (218)365-3330 for reservations or stop in and visit us.
Take your family away to a log cabin by the lake at the edge of the wilderness. Or maybe to a little cottage made of fieldstone with a perfect view of the Minnesota sunset. Camp Van Vac has 25 rustic cabins on the shore of Burntside Lake in the Superior National Forest at the doorstep of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area.
For More Information, Please contact me, Camp Van Vac manager Nancy Tubbs, if you need additional information.
Gracious hospitality, fine dining, comfortable & casually elegant log cabins & a pristine, island-dotted lake combine to give you a treasured vacation experience in the Minnesota Northwoods.
Nestled among the pines on the southern shore of Burntside Lake, Burntside is a summer resort which has been welcoming guests since 1913 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Early information shares stories of guests enjoying hospitable lodging in accommodations at what would become Burntside Lodge as early as 1911…over 100 years ago.
Reservations are required and can be made by calling us at (218) 365-3894. You may also email requests with your phone number and we will confirm by telephone.
