Des Moines to Ely Road Trip Guide: Scenic Drive, Stops & Tips

This 330-mile route from Iowa's capital to Minnesota's canoe country traverses the Driftless Area—a region famously untouched by glaciers, leaving deep river valleys and limestone bluffs. Drivers often miss the subtle transition from cornfields to boreal forest, but on this journey you'll witness that shift along highways I-35 and MN-1.

Estimated driving time is 5.5 to 6 hours without stops. However, the question "how long to drive Des Moines, IA to Ely, MN" depends heavily on how many of the best stops you choose to explore.

Below is a quick snapshot of the route's essentials.

The drive showcases three distinct biomes: Iowa's tallgrass prairie, southern Minnesota's deciduous woodlands, and the Northwoods' boreal forests. The Driftless Area near Decorah offers rugged karst topography—a rare sight in the Midwest.

Local commerce includes quirky roadside stands selling sweet corn and honey in Iowa, and artisan shops in Ely known for birch bark crafts. The Iron Range near Virginia reveals mining heritage with massive pit lakes.

While there are no UNESCO World Heritage Sites on this exact route, nearby Pipestone National Monument (SD) is a cultural landmark. However, the entire Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness near Ely is a federally protected area of global significance.

• Best natural scenery: Upper Iowa River valley (mile 150), Burntside Lake overlook (mile 310)
• Commerce: Downtown Albert Lea has antique stores; Ely's main street is full of outfitters and cafes
• Hidden off-route spot: Pederson's Bait & Tackle on MN-1 (great local fishing tips)

The primary route uses I-35 north from Des Moines to Albert Lea, then US-18 east to MN-1 north into Ely. Around 80% of the drive is on divided highways with smooth asphalt, but the final 60 miles on MN-1 are two-lane with occasional gravel patches.

Fuel stations cluster near interchanges, but become scarce on MN-1; fill up in Albert Lea or Virginia. Average gas cost for a mid-size car is roughly $35-45.

• Key highways: I-35, US-18, MN-1, MN-169
• Major interchanges: Exit 11 (Ames), Exit 2 (Clear Lake), I-35/US-18 junction near Albert Lea
• Road quality: Good to excellent until Ely; last 20 miles have potholes in spring
• Cell reception: Strong along I-35, spotty on MN-1 beyond Tower

For more on finding the best stops between cities, see our guide on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Road safety is excellent aside from deer crossings near wooded areas, especially at dawn and dusk. MN-1 has sharp curves—obey posted speeds. No major construction zones are typical in summer.

For families: stop at Lime Springs Creamery (Iowa) for ice cream, or the Minnesota Children's Museum in Rochester (though slightly off-route). Pet-friendly options include wayside rest stops with grass areas.

• Fatigue management: Rest areas near Clear Lake (mile 80) and Albert Lea (mile 140) have picnic tables
• Best family stop: Jolly Time Popcorn in Clear Lake—free samples and factory tour
• Pet-friendly: Bass Lake Rest Area (MN-1) has a designated pet walk

Is it worth driving Des Moines, IA to Ely, MN? Absolutely, for the changing landscapes and the payoff of Ely's wilderness. Plan for at least one overnight if you want to explore the Boundary Waters.