Ely to Bayfield: Scenic Drive Guide

This route follows the historic Vermilion Trail, one of the oldest roads in Minnesota, dating back to 1865, originally serving fur traders and later gold prospectors. The drive covers 160 miles and takes about 3 hours without stops, but the real journey is in the detours.

Along the way, the landscape shifts from boreal forest to Lake Superior's shoreline, offering a diversity that makes this drive a favorite among locals. The route includes a stretch of the North Shore Scenic Drive, a National Scenic Byway, and ends at the gateway to the Apostle Islands.

Here's a quick overview of the route's key details:

How long to drive Ely, MN to Bayfield, WI? The driving time is approximately 3 hours, but plan for 1.5 to 2 additional hours if you include stops. The most efficient route is to take Highway 1 south from Ely to Duluth, then follow Highway 2 east to Ashland, and finally Highway 13 north to Bayfield. The roads are well-maintained, but some stretches are two-lane with limited passing zones.

Fuel economy is a consideration: gas prices in the Northland average 20% higher than the national median, and stations become sparse after leaving Duluth. Fill up in Ely or at the junction of Highway 1 and Highway 33, where the last major fuel stop before Bayfield is located.

Key logistics to keep in mind:

• No tolls on the entire route.
• Cell service is spotty between Ely and Tower, and again near Hayward; download offline maps before you go.
• Winter travel (November to March) may require snow tires and attention to weather advisories.

Infrastructure safety is solid, with well-marked roads and barriers along the gnarly Lake Superior shoreline. However, curves and elevation changes demand attention. Deer crossings are frequent at dusk, so drive with high beams when possible. Emergency services have limited coverage in remote stretches; the last hospital is in Grand Marais, 100 miles from Bayfield.

For family suitability, the route offers the Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center, where kids can learn about local ecology, and the Fairlawn Mansion in Superior, a Victorian-era residence with interactive tours. The drive is suitable for children, but pack entertainment and snacks, as services are sparse.

Fatigue management is crucial: plan rest stops at the two state parks along the route - Gooseberry Falls and Amnicon Falls - both offering picnicking and short walking trails. The Highway 13 scenic overlook just south of Cornucopia is a roadside pullout with a panoramic view, ideal for a quick stretch.

Pet-friendly framework: most parks allow leashed pets, but the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is pet-friendly only on the mainland, not on the islands. Lodging options in Bayfield and Ashland generally accept pets, but always confirm in advance.

Hidden off-route spots: just 10 miles west of Bayfield lies the little-known Meyers Beach Sea Caves, a stunning array of sandstone arches accessible by kayak or foot in winter when the lake freezes. Another gem is the S. H. Van Lear Memorial Forest, a 2,600-acre preserve with old-growth pines, reachable via a gravel road near the town of Mason.

• Invest in a paper map as backup; GPS can fail in remote areas.
• Carry a basic emergency kit including water, blankets, and a flashlight.
• Check road conditions via 511MN or 511WI before departure.

The most iconic stop is the how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities - a perfect example of a detour that rewards the curious. Here, you find the Split Rock Lighthouse, a century-old structure overlooking Lake Superior, and the Tettegouche State Park, where waterfalls cascade through ancient volcanic rock. This area is also a gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, a million-acre preserve of untouched lakes and forests.

Climatic conditions vary wildly; in summer, the lakes keep temps cool (65-75°F), while winter brings snow and ice, creating a beautiful but challenging drive. Spring and fall offer the most moderate weather, with fall foliage peaking in late September.

Local commerce reflects the region's character: in Ely, you'll find outfitters selling handmade birch bark baskets, and in Bayfield, the iconic raspberry jam is a must-try. Along the way, small towns like Silver Bay and Washburn host seasonal farmers' markets where you can sample wild rice and smoked fish. This is also the heart of the Ojibwe Indian country, and cultural centers in Odanah and Red Cliff offer authentic crafts and storytelling.