Incredible Ely

07/25/2026

07/24/2026

In response to growing concern for Ely area businesses impacted by the ongoing wildfire and related closures, has established an Ely-specific wildfire fund: www.unitedwaynemn.org/ely-wildfire

💕 We are excited to announce that anonymous donors have committed to match the first $35,000 raised for the Ely Wildfire Recovery Fund!

✅ Ely Wildfire Recovery Fund donors can choose to designate their gift for Ely Small Businesses and/or the Area(s) of Greatest Need.

📝 Ely Small Business Fund applications will open by July 31, 2026.

➕ We continue to raise funds to help other communities in our service area through our Crisis & Disaster Recovery Fund.

🔗 Learn more about both funds - and other wildfire related resources - at www.unitedwaynemn.org/firehelp

07/22/2026

Summer is still summering here in Ely. 💙

The air quality has improved significantly, and while wildfire activity remains in the surrounding region, Ely itself is open and welcoming visitors.

As always, please respect any fire closures and give our firefighters the space, resources, and lodging they need as they continue their incredible work. But if you’ve been wondering whether you can still enjoy a day in Ely—the answer is yes.

Our shops, restaurants, outfitters, galleries, and local businesses would love to see you. Your support means more than ever right now.

Come enjoy the lake, stroll downtown, shop local, and help support the community that makes Ely so special. 🌲

07/21/2026

07/19/2026

Tips from area leaders coordinating emergency response and people on the ground.

07/14/2026

Our hearts are with everyone affected by the fires and evacuations. We’re keeping our neighbors, firefighters, first responders, and everyone working on the front lines in our thoughts. We’re also hoping for the safety of our beautiful forests, wildlife, and all who call this area home.

For those looking for reliable updates:
• Download the Watch Duty app for fire information and evacuation updates.
• Follow the U.S. Forest Service-Superior National Forest page for official information.
• Follow the Lake County - Minnesota and St. Louis County Sheriff Gordon Ramsay pages for evacuation updates.
• Follow the The Ely Echo page for local updates.
• And if you need help or are able to help others, many members of the What’s Up Ely Facebook group are offering rides, supplies, lodging, and support.

Please continue to look out for one another, follow official guidance, and stay safe. Hoping for rain, protection for our community, and for everyone to return home safely. ❤️

07/11/2026

The North American Bear Center in Ely will be welcoming two orphaned bear cubs this September.

06/28/2026

ELY—More than a century after iron ore mining began beneath the hills surrounding Ely, the community gathered June 14 to remember the men who never returned home from work.

06/28/2026

The legendary explorer says he wasn't chasing another record. He was searching for something far more personal: a quiet mind.

06/15/2026

A memorial dedication recognized the more than 200 miners who lost their lives on the job throughout the mines in the Ely area on Sunday.