The Canoer's Paradise

Ely located in Northern Minnesota on the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The area is known for its remarkable canoe routes, clear water, and wildlife. During my visit, I travelled along the Basswood Lake, crossed various portages, and camped at a campsite north of Jackfish Bay. The region has a rich geological history with ancient volcanic rocks and granite outcrops. The Native Americans who lived here engaged in mining of copper and traded it across North America. The area is now home to diverse flora and fauna, including bald eagles and timberwolves. The silence, clear nights, and the northern lights display were surreal. Compared to Duluth, St. Paul, and Minneapolis, Ely is remote but a paradise for nature enthusiasts.