Boundary Waters: Grand Ely Lodge
National Geographic Traveler named Boundary Waters in Minnesota one of “50 Places of a Lifetime”–and with good reason. The stunning Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is a preserve of lakes and woods, stretching about 100 miles along the U.S. border with Canada, and welcoming around 200,000 visitors annually. A beautiful respite for Wisconsin-based aquatic adventurers, Boundary Waters has 1,200 miles of canoe routes over more than 1,000 lakes, rivers and streams for exploring–with very little distraction apart from the beauty of the nature that surrounds. (Note that permits may be required to access the wilderness area and can be acquired here.)
Grand Ely Lodge in Ely, Minn., is a great starting point for visitors seeking to explore the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, which is mere minutes away. A variety of room options are available–including suites with bunk beds for the littlest adventurers–as well as an indoor heated pool and a wading pool for kids. Plus, children ages 10 and under who are resort guests eat for free on property. Pet-friendly Grand Ely Lodge is located on Shagawa Lake and offers a full-service marina where guests have complimentary use of canoes, kayaks, paddle boats, paddleboards, hydro bikes and more equipment for on-the-water wandering. While in Ely this summer, check out the Blueberry Art Festival, July 26 to 28, and come early September, the Harvest Moon Festival, or head to Downtown Ely, which is a minute away from the lodge. To book, visit grandelylodge.com.