Imagine a place…

• where one of Minnesota’s 10,000 spectacular lakes can been seen around every bend
• where you have access to over a dozen species of game fish – literally at your doorstep
• where trophy walleyes, bass, pike and trout are plentiful
• where you’re at the front door of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and world class fishing
• where a shore lunch isn’t just reserved for that “once a year” fishing trip

Now make your imagination a reality…live, work and fish…in Ely Minnesota.

The mere mention of Ely is synonymous with world-class fishing opportunities. Living in the Ely area means having access to a multitude of popular fish species, from Smallmouth Bass and Walleyes to Lake Trout and Muskies. Ely Minnesota lies within the Superior National Forest and is the Gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, featuring hundreds of canoe access fishing lakes. The Ely area is also home to dozens of motorboat access lakes…home to some of the best fishing anywhere. Now that you mention it, think of us when you think of a place to live, work & FISH…in Ely Minnesota!

Living and working in Ely Minnesota means having some of the best fishing in the country within your reach.

The area boasts some of the finest smallmouth bass fishing in all of North America. World class northern pike live in the hundreds of Ely area lakes, not to mention the nearly 46 lb. Minnesota state record that came from these waters. Whether you’re looking for a walleye dinner or a wall hanger, Ely’s the place.

The famous Boundary Waters Canoe Area is home to Minnesota’s state record walleye, a 17 lb. 9 oz. giant. Lake trout, largemouth bass, rainbow trout, splake, crappies, bluegills, brook trout and perch all add to the fishing mix. Shouldn’t any job come with some fringe benefits? Make Ely your fringe benefit! Live, work, play….and FISH…in Ely Minnesota.

It’s Friday, the weather calls for sunny days and starry nights, and you’re looking for a quick getaway to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. Ely has you covered with a wide range of camping options just down the road from your Ely home. Several RV parks and resorts offer sites that can accommodate rigs of all sizes and offer full hookups, laundry facilities and access to WiFi. Camping is also available in the many State Parks that dot the surrounding Ely area. There you’ll find a wide variety of options for RV and tent camping as well as camper cabins for those seeking a little more comfort. A wide variety of activities, including swimming, nature programs, geocaching, fishing and trail hiking will keep everyone of all ages entertained throughout your “staycation”. The added bonus? Many of the parks are open in the winter for those wanting to take a day trip and view the beautiful surroundings on cross country skis or snowshoes.

Living in Ely where you’re close to the heart of the Superior National Forest has its advantages, including access to an abundant number of National Forest campgrounds. A full range of options, from fully-developed campgrounds, those with limited facilities, and secluded wilderness sites meet the needs of just about any camper.

With the time you’ll save traveling you’ll arrive in plenty of time to set up camp and gather around the campfire to share stories and outdoor memories.

Ready to hit the trails? A wide variety of options for novice and experienced hikers are available just outside your doorstep.

Located three blocks north of downtown Ely, the Trezona Trail features flat and rolling terrain. At just under 4 miles in length, the mostly-paved trail forms a loop around Miners Lake, a former ore mining pit and passes by the historic Pioneer Mine. The Kawishiwi Falls Trail is another popular trail that’s located just outside of town. The 1.5 mile, relatively easy walking path passes through woods filled with some of Ely’s most common trees including Spruce, Pine, Ash and Maple and takes visitors to stunning views of the Kawishiwi Falls and Fall Lake Dam.

Those looking for longer treks won’t be disappointed by the number of long distance trails in the immediate Ely area. Considered as one of the most scenic byways in Minnesota, the Echo Trail just outside of town serves as the entry point to several trailheads, some with designated camping locations. And, for a true adventure, enthusiasts can drive down beautiful Highway 1, catch a segment or two of the Superior Hiking Trail and be home again before nightfall.

Living in Ely means you can return to your favorite hiking spot whenever the mood strikes.

With the BWCAW and over 2000 lakes at your doorstep, canoers and kayakers can find just the right match for a day trip or an extended journey on the water. Hegman Lake has one of the finest examples of original Native American Pictographs and is a perfect option for those seeking a family-friendly day paddle. Plenty of close-to-town lakes offer easy access and plenty of options to stop in a calm inlet for a break and a swim to cool you down on hot summer days.

Talk to any local, and you’ll hear many a story of canoe camping in the BWCAW. Tales of lakes that meander through forests, bogs, and granite cliffs that soar high above shorelines. Tales of wildlife sightings including moose, bears, beavers and wolves. Tales of soaring eagles, listening to the sound of calling loons and the bird songs of Chickadees, Sparrows, Finches, and Grosbeaks, to name just a few. Tales of the vast variety of plants and fruit seen on shorelines and in campsites. Tales of spectacular star gazing and northern lights displays.

As you can imagine, living in the area gives you access to a wealth of knowledge that will make your trip unforgettable. And, if you’re new to the sport, several resorts and outfitters offer rentals, canoeing and kayaking classes and guided trips.

Cross-country ski enthusiasts will absolutely love living in Ely. For those with school-aged children, the Ely Nordic Wolves Ski Team offers all students the opportunity to learn how to ski and become technically proficient in both classic and skate skiing.

An array of groomed and ungroomed trails traverse the area in and around Ely. The Hidden Valley Recreation Area has over 25 km of machine-groomed trails and a heated chalet. Right in town, the Trezona Trail has a 6.5 km groomed trail that loops around Miners Lake that can be used by classic and skate skiers alike. Lakes and a large network of backcountry trails provide another great venue that many Elyites use regularly for skiing.

Given the large number of skiing buffs who make Ely their home you’ll find it easy to plan a “meet up” for any time of day. It’s an awesome way to get some exercise and develop new friendships.