As the Land of 10,000 Lakes, it’s not hard to believe that Minnesota is one of the most beautiful states in the entire country. Our state’s natural beauty is second to none, and you can see it most clearly when you visit some of our smaller towns. One town in particular combines beauty, recreation, and amazing people so perfectly that it becomes a little slice of heaven that you’d be lucky to visit.

Everyone who has ever been to Ely loves it there. Why?

Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr

For one thing, its small size makes it feel like a perfect retreat from the big city. Just 3,390 people live there, though the population does swell in summer months.

Tony Webster/Flickr

But Ely’s size isn’t the only thing it has going for it. The town is also one of the most gorgeous places in all of Minnesota.

A. Strakey/Flickr

Its proximity to the Boundary Waters is one of its biggest draws. It’s like the entryway to over a million acres of pristine wilderness.

Greg Gjerdingen/Flickr

But you don’t have to venture too far into the woods to take in some of its solitude. If you aren’t ready for a Boundary Waters journey, visit the nearby Bear Head Lake State Park.

MN Photos/Flickr

This state park takes up nearly 700 acres around the stunning Bear Head Lake. It’s an amazing spot for fishing and hiking. It was even named America’s Favorite Park in 2010!

MN Photos/Flickr

Beyond the wilderness, Ely draws people because of its surprisingly busy - but still quiet - downtown.

Jon ‘ShakataGaNai’ Davis/Wikimedia Commons

Quaint shops line its streets, containing everything from souvenir stores to restaurants. And when you step inside virtually any of them, you’ll be greeted by warm service and a smile. Minnesota Nice is alive and well in Ely.

Jon ‘ShakataGaNai’ Davis/Wikimedia Commons

Community events do their part in making Ely a little slice of heaven, too. The annual Blueberry Festival gives visitors a chance to browse and buy the work of local artists.

Visit Ely, MN/Facebook

And the Wolf Track Classic dogsled race will give you a completely unique experience you will never forget!

WolfTrack Classic Sled Dog Race/Facebook

All in all, Ely is one of the most beautiful towns in Minnesota. With its natural attractions, activities, and events, it is Minnesota’s own little slice of heaven. What’s your favorite thing to do there?

Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr

Tony Webster/Flickr

A. Strakey/Flickr

Greg Gjerdingen/Flickr

MN Photos/Flickr

Jon ‘ShakataGaNai’ Davis/Wikimedia Commons

Visit Ely, MN/Facebook

WolfTrack Classic Sled Dog Race/Facebook

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