Discover Ely Ski Trails

With 20″ inches of  snow reported up north, its time to head out and ski.

Which has us day-dreaming about trails. Here are four trails we think you’ll enjoy exploring, all within a stone’s throw of Ely, MN.

North Arm Trail
Length: 42k/26 miles
Difficulty: Intermediate/Advanced
Style: Classic
Features: This user-tracked (ungroomed) trail offers a variety of loops with varied distances. The terrain is hilly and rugged. The route follows through some small picturesque lakes. Bring along cocoa for a mid-trail warm up.
Good to know: No fee. Self-issuing day permit required, located at trail-head.

North Junction Trail
Length: 13k/8 miles
Difficulty: Intermediate/Advanced
Style: Classic
Features: This user-tracked (ungroomed) trail heads through spruce swamps, upland hills and views of cliffs. Ski through a variety of loops, two of which are south of North Arm Road. The trail skirts near Burntside Lake. You could easily add mileage skiing on Burntside, just take pre-cautions for open water and windy days.
Good to know: No fee.

Hidden Valley Trail
Length: 15k/9 miles
Difficulty:  Easy/Advanced
Style: Classic/Skate
Features:  Located near the International Wolf Center, this section offers varied loops and levels of challenge.  This is a great woodland trail for all abilities and it is groomed by the Ely Nordic Association. Best news is that new trails are currently under construction.
Good to know: MN Ski Pass required which can be obtained online or at select businesses where state licenses are sold.  The Ely Nordic Association also appreciates donations.

Bear Island Trail
Length: 25k/15 miles
Difficulty: Easy/Intermediate
Style: Classic/Skate
Features: Ski along the shore of Bear Island Lake on this user-tracked (ungroomed) trail. Follow the trail as it connects to the Superior National Forest and rolls along to secluded Perch Lake. If you’re lucky, you’ll be the first to break the track after a heavy snow. Otherwise, follow others who have packed the trail before you.
Good to know. No fee.

Find maps here.