Welcome to North of North Resort, your Gateway to the BWCA, located on Scenic Highway 1, just 10 miles south of Ely, Minnesota. Overlooking Birch Lake, in the heart of the Superior National Forest, and only a mile from the Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA), our resort is the perfect basecamp for travelers seeking solitude and unparalleled wilderness experiences.
Start your adventure with a day trip into the BWCA, all from the resort—no overnight permit required! Or don't leave the endless landscape of Birch Lake, you might as well be in the boundary waters already!
On this end of Birch Lake, the sounds of loons, owls, and wolves fill the air. Moose, bears, river otters, turtles, beavers, foxes, and a myriad of birds and waterfowl are frequent visitors—creating infinite opportunities for nature photographers to capture the wild beauty of the area.
The International Wolf Center and Bear Center are just a short 10-minute drive away! Plus, everything that Ely has to offer—unique shops, dining, museums, and local attractions—are just around the corner. With so many ways to experience the wilderness, there's something for everyone—whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a little of both.
Cabins & Amenities
Each of our cabins offers amazing lake views and a high degree of privacy, giving you the perfect spot to relax and unwind after a day of exploring. The serene atmosphere and breathtaking surroundings allow you to truly disconnect. Once you’ve turned in for the night, you’ll be surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature—and if you look up, the stars will leave you in awe. Situated in one of the world’s largest dark sky sanctuaries, you’ll have stunning views of the northern lights and the Milky Way, far from city lights and light pollution.
Each cabin has a little over 1,000 square feet and sleeps up to eight people. The main level includes spacious king bedroom, beautiful tile bathroom, fully appointed kitchen, and living room area. Each cabin also has a lofted sleeping area with a queen bed and two XL twin beds. All decks, trails, boardwalks, and docks at the property are fully accessible.
Amenities: Each cabin is fully furnished and stocked with items needed for a short-term stay (towels, bedding, toilet paper, soap, kitchen cooking utensils, dishware, etc.). Each cabin also has a washer/dryer, dishwasher, and other modern appliances. The units have high-speed internet and entertainment systems that allow guests to stream their favorite shows and work remotely.
Cabin exteriors feature a large, panoramic deck with furniture, grill, Solo Stove, and adjacent private barrel sauna with lake views!
Accessibility
Our resort and cabins were developed following the principals of universal design and are accessible to people of all abilities. When you support our resort, you’re also helping us provide outdoor wilderness recreation for adaptive athletes.
A view of the resort from Birch Lake.