Escape to North of North Resort – lying at the mouth of the South Kawishiwi River, where pristine waters flow from the famous Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA) into the endless-waters of Birch Lake, this is where adventure and tranquility meet.
Birch Lake is Ely's hidden gem—the largest Ely-area lake outside the BWCA, with over 90 miles of mostly undeveloped shoreline, surrounded by rugged rocky points, enchanting islands, and peaceful, mirror-like bays. The northeast end of the lake is straight out of a wilderness dream, offering a surreal retreat for nature lovers and explorers alike.
And the best part? Birch Lake is the area’s most secluded, with nearly all of its shoreline protected federal land, ensuring you’ll experience a slice of paradise that feels completely untouched. At North of North Resort, our expansive boardwalk stretches along 1,100 feet of shoreline, inviting you to step right out into the wild and explore the breathtaking landscape that surrounds you.
No matter the season, North of North Resort is your gateway to BWCA adventures, where the wilderness transforms with every passing month. With exclusive discounts from local businesses, you’ll have more ways to create unforgettable memories —all at an amazing value.
Snowshoe and Cross-Country Ski Birch Lake and the Superior National Forest
Start your winter adventure right from the resort on Birch Lake, or take a short trip to explore the snowshoeing and skiing trails at the Kawishiwi Pines Scientific and Natural Area, and enjoy the groomed trails at Hidden Valley and Birch Lake Pine Plantation—perfect for families, beginners, and seasoned adventurers alike!
As a guest of North of North Resort, you’ll enjoy exclusive access to a 10% discount on snowshoe and cross-country ski rentals at Piragis Outfitters.
Dogsledding in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area
Experience the magic of dogsledding in the BWCA—a must-do adventure for your bucket list! Step out from North of North Resort and let the dogs guide you through miles of pristine wilderness, all the way into the heart of the BWCA. With no motors allowed, you’ll glide across frozen lakes, rivers, and forest trails, immersing yourself in the peaceful solitude of winter’s beauty. And when the adventure ends, the dogs will bring you right back to the warmth and comfort of the resort.
As a guest of North of North Resort, you’ll enjoy an exclusive 10% discount with Cast Outdoor Adventures, our trusted dogsledding partner that will make this once-in-a-lifetime experience even more unforgettable!
Ice Fishing Guides, Gear, and Snobear Rentals
Make your big fish dreams come true on Birch Lake! Birch Lake is a fisherman’s paradise, known for its trophy Walleye and Northern Pike with Pike especially active in the winter. Rated by the Minnesota DNR as one of the state’s top Walleye lakes, but also home to black crappies, bluegills, perch, and smallmouth bass.
No Icehouse? No Gear? No Problem! - We’ve got you covered! Get set up with discounted rentals on everything you need—icehouses, augers, gear, and even guides—from Boundary Waters Outfitters and Ely Snobear. Just show up and start fishing!
World-Class Snowmobiling Awaits You!
The Ely area is home to some of the best snowmobile trails in the country, including the Tomahawk Trail, rated a top-10 trail nationwide by Supertrax! From the Stony Spur to Babbitt, the Fishing Lakes Trail, Taconite Trail, North Shore Trail, and Arrowhead Trail, you’ll have hundreds of miles of well-groomed trails right at your doorstep—just waiting to be explored from North of North Resort.
Don’t have your own sled? No problem! Nearby snowmobile rentals from Lossings Power Sports let you make fresh tracks in the powder and embrace the thrill of winter in an epic wilderness setting.