Iowa City to Ely Road Trip: Ultimate Guide for Scenic Stops

The drive from Iowa City, IA to Ely, MN covers 388 miles along US-20 East and US-53 North, a route that transitions from the cornfields of Iowa to the dense boreal forests of Minnesota. A historical quirk: Ely sits at the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, while Iowa City hosts the University of Iowa's iconic Old Capitol. Expect a driving time of roughly 6 hours and 10 minutes without stops, but the journey deserves at least a full day to savor the best stops between the two cities.

This guide answers is it worth driving Iowa City, IA to Ely, MN with a resounding yes, especially for those seeking a mix of prairie landscapes, Mississippi River views, and north woods adventure. For insights on planning, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The Prairie-to-Forest Transition

The first two hours from Iowa City cross the Loess Hills, wind-sculpted bluffs along the Missouri River. Farther east, the landscape flattens into agricultural plains until you approach the Mississippi River at Dubuque. Crossing into Wisconsin, the terrain becomes rolling hills and dairy farms. The real transformation begins near Duluth: dense pines, rocky outcroppings, and crystal-clear lakes dominate the final stretch to Ely.

• Effigy Mounds National Monument – 200+ prehistoric mounds shaped as animals (near McGregor, IA).
• Pikes Peak State Park – panoramic views of the Mississippi River (just south of McGregor).
• Jay Cooke State Park – iconic swinging bridge and rugged gorge near Duluth.
• Superior National Forest – endless forests, lakes, and wildlife along US-53.

Climatic Conditions and Route Aesthetics

Summer (June–August) brings temperatures from 70–85°F, with lush greenery and long daylight. Fall (September–October) offers spectacular foliage, especially in the North Shore region. Winter (December–March) transforms the route into a snow-covered wonderland but requires cautious driving. Spring can be muddy and rainy, but wildflowers are a bonus.

Hidden Off-Route Gems

Just 15 minutes off US-53 near Virginia, MN, hike to Moose Lake for a secluded swimming spot. Another detour: the Brule River on the Wisconsin-Minnesota border offers kayaking and waterfalls. In Ely itself, the International Wolf Center educates visitors on wolf packs and the boreal ecosystem.

Culinary Infrastructure

Iowa City boasts farm-to-table fare; try Bread Garden Market for sandwiches. In Dubuque, Brazen Open Kitchen + Bar serves elevated Midwestern classics. La Crosse offers craft breweries like Pearl Street Brewery. Duluth's Canal Park Brewing Company pairs beer with lake views. In Ely, Sir G's Cafe is a local favorite for lumberjack-sized breakfasts.

Local Commerce and Culture

• Iowa City – independent bookstores like Prairie Lights
• Dubuque – historic cable car and Fenelon Place Elevator
• La Crosse – Riverside Park and riverboat cruises
• Duluth – Canal Park, Lake Superior Maritime Museum
• Ely – art galleries, outfitters for Boundary Waters expeditions

Infrastructure Safety and Road Quality

US-20 and US-53 are well-maintained, but watch for deer, especially at dawn/dusk. In winter, check road conditions at 511mn.org for Minnesota. Shoulder widths vary; narrower segments exist near Ely. Keep emergency kits, and ensure gas tank is above quarter before leaving Duluth.

Family and Child Suitability

The route is family-friendly with numerous parks and educational stops. Spillville, IA (home to the historic St. Wenceslaus Church and the Bily Clocks) is a unique detour. In Hibbing, MN, the Greyhound Bus Museum entertains kids. The entire final stretch offers abundant nature walks and wildlife viewing. Recommended stop: Soudan Underground Mine State Park – tour a former iron mine 2,341 feet below ground.

• Diaper changing stations available at most rest areas along US-20.
• Playgrounds at state parks like Interstate State Park (WI).
• Kid-friendly dining at Culver's locations in most towns.

Pet-Friendly Framework

Most rest stops allow leashed pets; state parks in Iowa and Wisconsin typically permit dogs on trails. Jay Cooke State Park has a designated pet-friendly loop. In Ely, many lodgings welcome pets, but always call ahead. Carry waste bags and a collapsible water bowl.

Fatigue Management and Rest Zones

Iowa’s rest areas along US-20 are spaced roughly every 30 miles. In Minnesota, the most reliable rest stop is near Floodwood on US-53, with picnic tables and vending machines. Avoid driving more than 3 hours without a break. The town of Grand Rapids, MN (off US-169) offers coffee and quick food. For a longer rest, spend an hour at Moose Lake State Park – short trails and a beach.

1. First break: Dubuque (mile 70) – best for coffee and fuel.
2. Second break: La Crosse (mile 140) – lunch by the river.
3. Third break: Duluth (mile 330) – stretch legs at Canal Park.
4. Final break: somewhere around Virginia, MN (mile 360) – snack stop.

For a comprehensive approach to planning, consider how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities – it will help you personalize this route to your interests, whether you’re chasing wildlife, history, or solitude.

Driving Directions and Road Conditions

The primary route is simple: take US-20 East from Iowa City toward Dubuque, then switch to US-53 North near La Crosse, WI, which runs through Duluth, MN, before turning north to Ely. Most of US-20 is a four-lane divided highway, while US-53 is mostly two-lane through forested areas. Road quality is excellent on main routes, but winter conditions can be challenging from November to March.

• Segment 1: Iowa City to Dubuque (70 miles, 1.5 hours) – US-20 E
• Segment 2: Dubuque to La Crosse, WI (70 miles, 1.5 hours) – US-20 E/US-63 S
• Segment 3: La Crosse to Duluth (190 miles, 3 hours) – US-53 N
• Segment 4: Duluth to Ely (108 miles, 2 hours) – US-53 N/ MN-169 N

Fuel and Route Economics

Fuel stations are plentiful along the interstate portions near Dubuque and the Twin Ports area around Duluth. However, between Duluth and Ely, gas stations become sparse—plan a full tank in Duluth. Prices in Iowa and southern Minnesota average $3.30–$3.60 per gallon, while northern Minnesota can be $0.20 more. Total fuel cost for a typical SUV is around $55.

1. Iowa City, IA – multiple stations near I-80
2. Dubuque, IA – stations off US-20
3. La Crosse, WI – stations on US-53
4. Duluth, MN – fill up before heading north

No UNESCO World Heritage Sites lie directly on the route, but Effigy Mounds National Monument in Iowa (near McGregor) features ancient Native American burial mounds, a culturally significant site worth a short detour.