For several years, a group of local mountain bike enthusiasts have known that Ely, has held a unique opportunity to be a mountain bike destination. The varied topography and geology, combined with mostly well drained soil, is an exceptional combination in the region. This combination along with the natural beauty of the northern landscape, sets the stage for a phenomenal mountain biking system. Hidden Valley, already a hub for recreational activities year round, is an excellent site to develop a mountain bike trail system. In addition to the aforementioned physical terrain attributes; infrastructure such as parking area, chalet, and restrooms are key pieces for a successful venue that are all ready in place. The overall project consists of approximately 9.1 miles of trails. The proposed trail system would be designed and purpose built for mountain biking and fat tire biking in the winter. All trails will be single track and directional. Single track trails are defined as low impact, sustainable trails having a finished tread width between 24 and 48″ and a corridor clearing no greater than 6′. The completed trail system will consist of 6 loops ranging from beginner to advanced, one of which is a progressive skills loop for riders to practice and hone bike handling skills. The loops will be constructed in a “snowman” formation, with easier loops closer to the trailhead and more difficult loops further away. The 9.1 mile system contains 6 individual loops for summer mountain biking and winter fat biking. The progressive skills loop is loop #1 located on the far left side of the map. Note: All intersections generally coincide with ski trail intersections on hilltops to avoid high speed collisions between fat bikers and skiers during the winter.

Join us and be apart of a healthy, positive environment for individuals and families. Try training for sports you always wished you had tried, or train intensely for the sport you are currently in. Focusing on Cross Training, Core Strength Training, Calisthenics and TRX. 24 HOUR ACCESS FOR MEMBERS

Built by people who love bikes. Roadie, mountain, free-ride or just cruising with the kids. All cyclists are welcome here in Ely. We have scenic road rides, a growing trail system and a fun group of locals that love their bikes. Come north and join us for a ride! Never miss a ride. Follow us on Facebook and stay in the loop for all things cycling related in Ely, MN. You’ll get updates on group rides, races, special events and more. Join us on Thursday nights for our weekly group ride. We leave town at 6:00 pm. See the community page for more details. We’re building our first dedicated trail system for mountain biking in Ely, and we need your help! Please consider donating. Click here for more details.   Peruse our website for all things bike in Ely, MN.

Famous for our quality LIVE bait. Large selection of bait, tackle, licenses, hunting, camping gear. Since 1970, conveniently located in Ely’s East end. Open year round.

Whether your interest lies in landing giant northern pike, massive lake trout or what is the much revered and sought after, walleye, Ely has it all. And THE place to begin your quest is Babes Bait and Tackle. Babes has been in the same location for over 30 years, one of the oldest fishing landmarks in the region. Fishermen from all over the country and beyond pass through the doors of Babes locally known as “the best little bait shop in Ely”.

We are enablers of nostalgia. Whether your pastime is downhill sledding, family time at the cabin, winter camping, ice fishing, or doing traditional work on the land, we craft the finest toboggan sleds still available. Our designs reflect the time-tested traditions of the first people in Northern Canada. Following processes handed down to our craftsman from his mentor, who was taught from his mentor before him, the 150+ techniques we embrace consistently produce sleds that last generations. Our sleds are hand-crafted, and our design reflects the time-tested traditions of the first people in Northern Canada. Our sleds have endured the punishment of daily use in the northern wilderness by those who choose to create their own trails. Don’t settle for less than the best. Own an heirloom, and start your own enduring traditions.

Portage North, formerly Kondos Outdoors was born in Ely in 1980 out of a need from outfitters requiring gear that could withstand the rigors of being on trail all season long. With a roll of fabric, some thread, and the determination of crafting the best gear, Dan and Vicki Kondos started Kondos Outdoors. For 35 years, Kondos developed the gear we all have come to love and depend on for making our wilderness experiences successful. In 2015, I took on the task of carrying that legacy forward. I grew up venturing into the Boundary Waters from the age of three and spent much of my formative years exploring the Ely wilderness. In 2017, I married my wife, Corissa, who had been guiding BWCA trips for seven years and is the director of Rock Ridge Christian Camp since 2015. We enjoy being able to take our personal experiences and knowledge and incorporatethat into how we design and build products for Portage North and share the wilderness experience with others. By bringing in state of the art cutting and sewing equipment, implementing continuous improvement philosophies, researching the best materials, and having a 1.4 million acre test lab to vet our products, we strive to craft for you the toughest gear that will last you and the next generation a lifetime. From our families to yours, Michael and Corissa Larson Shop online for: Packs, Camp Kitchens, Camp Organization, Canoe Gear, Tarps & Tents, Totes, and Commuter packs & bags.

Hidden Valley and Hidden Valley Extension Ski Trails provide a machine groomed system of trails close to the town of Ely. The 15 km of trails vary in difficulty from easy to advanced. Hidden Valley Trails are connected to ‘Hidden Valley Extension’ on the eastern edge and to the Trezona Trail on the west. Trails are groomed for both skate skiing and classic skiing, with some open only to classic. Dogs are not allowed.

When visiting the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, take in a round of golf at the Ely Golf Club. The grass on the greens consist of a bentgrass and poa annua mix, which is typical for most Northland golf courses. The fairways and tees consist of a bluegrass/poa annua mix. With adequate growing conditions the greens will be some of the best in the Northland. Jacob Curtiss, course superintendent, is committed to making the Ely Golf Club the premier Boundary Waters Golf experience in Minnesota. Eco-friendly course management and a commitment to our environment are what drive Jacob and his team to continue development of the most beautiful golf course in northern Minnesota. It’s a great day for golf in the north woods of Minnesota! We would love to have you come out and enjoy our beautiful course.