The best road cycling routes around Ely

There are at least 3 moderate road cycling routes around Ely featured in this guide, offering diverse experiences through the region's natural landscapes. These routes are designed to showcase the best of the area's boreal forests, deep glacial lakes, and granite rock outcroppings.

Road cycling in Ely features a landscape shaped by glacial activity, characterized by boreal forests, deep glacial lakes, and granite rock outcroppings. You'll find a mix of paved trails and scenic roads, often with rolling wooded hills, providing varied terrain for cyclists.

Yes, for an easy and accessible ride, the Trezona Trail offers a 3.9-mile paved loop around Miner's Lake, directly accessible from downtown Ely. It's a great option for a leisurely ride or for families with children. Additionally, the Mesabi Trail, accessible from Eagles Nest Town Hall, provides a smooth, paved surface for venturing into the woods.

While cycling, you can experience the region's stunning natural beauty, including boreal forests, glacial lakes, and granite formations. Specific points of interest include Bass Lake and the scenic views around Armstrong Lake. The area is also known for its picturesque sunsets and diverse wildlife.

Yes, beyond the natural beauty, Ely offers several attractions. The Pioneer Mine Shaft House is a historical site. You can also visit the International Wolf Center, North American Bear Center, or the Dorothy Molter Museum. For a natural spectacle, Kawishiwi Falls is a popular spot for an easy hike leading to a beautiful waterfall.

The road cycling routes highlighted in this guide are generally considered moderate. For example, the Jasper Peak – Lake Vermilion State Park loop from Armstrong River involves significant elevation gain over its 44.1 miles. The Ely loop from Burntside Lake is a moderate 24.6-mile path with over 285 meters of elevation gain.

The best time for road cycling in Ely is typically during the warmer months, from late spring through early autumn. The fall season is particularly scenic, offering breathtaking views with peak fall colors along routes like the Echo Trail and other scenic roads.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Ely are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Ely loop from Burntside Lake and the View of Armstrong Lake – Ely loop from Twin Lakes, both offering circular journeys through the region's natural beauty.

Parking is generally available in and around downtown Ely, especially near popular trailheads like the Eastern Terminus of the Mesabi Trail or areas providing access to the Trezona Trail. Many scenic roads also offer pull-offs or designated parking areas for outdoor enthusiasts.

Ely is a smaller community, and while local transport options exist, direct public transport specifically for reaching remote road cycling trailheads with bikes might be limited. It's often best to plan for personal vehicle transport or inquire with local cycling groups or accommodation providers for shuttle services.

Road cyclists frequently praise Ely for its unique blend of accessible paved trails and extensive scenic roads through wilderness. The backdrop of unparalleled natural beauty, including boreal forests and glacial lakes, combined with a supportive local cycling community, makes it a highly regarded destination for outdoor activities.