Bear Head Lake State Park
"Ely is the closest gateway community and the main base for lodging, outfitters, and dining. Visitors from Ely often come for day trips, paddling, and camping."
Bear Head Lake State Park features a large, clear lake, smaller connected waters, and a rugged forested landscape typical of Minnesota's Iron Range. It is especially popular for canoeing, kayaking, fishing, camping, and spotting loons, eagles, and other wildlife.
Cave Lake State Park
"Ely is the closest city, offering lodging, dining, and historic attractions like the Nevada Northern Railway. Visitors from Ely enjoy quick access to Cave Lake’s outdoor recreation."
Cave Lake State Park boasts a sparkling mountain lake, excellent trout fishing, and scenic trails. Its peaceful setting is ideal for camping, picnicking, and exploring Nevada’s high-elevation beauty.
Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park
"Ely is the closest city, offering lodging, dining, and the Nevada Northern Railway Museum, making it a convenient base for park visitors."
Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park is known for its well-preserved 19th-century charcoal ovens and beautiful high desert scenery. Visitors enjoy hiking, picnicking, and exploring the area’s mining heritage.
Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park
"Ely is a popular gateway for visitors heading to the park for lake country recreation and a North Woods getaway. Many travelers combine a stay in Ely with mine tours and boating on Lake Vermilion."
Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park is known for its scenic lake country setting, excellent fishing and boating, and the historic Soudan Underground Mine. The park offers a rare chance to explore both North Woods shoreline and a preserved iron mine that helped shape Minnesota’s mining history.
Spring Valley State Park
"Ely is a regional hub with museums, historic sites, and access to the scenic Great Basin region, making it a popular stop for travelers."
Spring Valley State Park is known for its picturesque reservoir, excellent fishing, and peaceful camping areas. Visitors enjoy boating, hiking, and exploring the unique landscape.
Grand Portage State Park
"Ely travelers may visit as part of a broader northeastern Minnesota adventure. The park offers a contrasting coastal and waterfall experience to inland canoe-country trips."
Grand Portage State Park is best known for High Falls, a 120-foot waterfall on the Pigeon River, reached by an accessible paved trail and viewing platforms. The park also offers forested river scenery, wildlife viewing, and a strong connection to Ojibwe and fur-trade history.
Kershaw-Ryan State Park
"Ely is a regional hub with historic attractions and access to outdoor recreation, drawing visitors who wish to explore the scenic parks of southern Nevada."
Kershaw-Ryan State Park features vibrant gardens, rugged canyon walls, and family-friendly amenities. The park is ideal for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the natural springs that make this desert oasis unique.
Echo Canyon State Park
"Ely is a regional hub with a rich railroad heritage and access to Great Basin National Park, making it a good option for visitors seeking more amenities and attractions."
Echo Canyon State Park offers a peaceful reservoir for boating and fishing, along with scenic cliffs and meadows perfect for camping and wildlife watching. Its remote location provides a quiet retreat for outdoor enthusiasts.
George H. Crosby Manitou State Park
"Ely is known for wilderness travel and attracts outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate remote landscapes. Those visitors often value the park’s solitude, forested terrain, and backcountry feel."
George H. Crosby Manitou State Park features dramatic terrain, dense boreal forest, and one of Minnesota’s most secluded park experiences. Its steep ridges, river gorges, and waterfalls make it a favorite for hikers seeking solitude and natural scenery.
Tettegouche State Park
"Ely travelers often seek out the North Shore for a different kind of wilderness experience. Tettegouche offers steep terrain, waterfalls, and shoreline vistas that complement inland canoe-country trips."
Tettegouche State Park is one of Minnesota's most scenic parks, featuring high cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and miles of Lake Superior shoreline. Its mix of forest, lake, and river landscapes makes it a favorite for hiking, photography, and outdoor adventure.