What Is Moose Track Adventures and What Does It Offer?
Updated
Moose Track Adventures is a lakeside resort and Boundary Waters (BWCA) canoe outfitter based just outside Ely, Minnesota. It combines two services in one location: six lakeside cabins for guests who want a comfortable base, and full or partial canoe outfitting for paddlers heading into the Boundary Waters or Quetico Park. It also runs guided canoe and fishing trips. If you're deciding between a cabin stay and a wilderness paddle — or want both — this is the kind of operation that covers either choice.
Where It Is
The resort sits just outside Ely in northern Minnesota, on a lake with private dock access for cabin guests. Ely is the main gateway town for the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, which is why the area has a dense concentration of resorts and outfitters.
The Two Sides of the Business
Lakeside Cabin Resort
- 6 lakeside cabins, described as clean, modern, and furnished with essentials (including pillow-top mattresses).
- Private dock for each cabin stay, with lake access right at the shore.
- Boat, canoe, kayak, and fish finder rentals available to cabin guests.
- Dog, kid, family, and couple friendly — the site explicitly lists all of these.
- Positioned for getaways with family, friends, a group of guys or ladies, or as a couple.
Boundary Waters Outfitting
- All-inclusive Kevlar canoe outfitting and partial outfitting options.
- Kevlar canoes, paddles, life jackets, tents, food, and essential gear included in comprehensive packages.
- Permits and pick-up handled as part of the service — the site cites over 30 years of outfitting experience.
- Route planning help for Boundary Waters or Quetico Park trips.
- Guided canoe and fishing services for those who want a guide rather than self-guided travel.
What Makes It Distinct
Most Ely businesses lean one way: either a resort with cabins or an outfitter that equips trips. Moose Track Adventures does both, so you can stay in a cabin and rent a boat one day, then launch a fully outfitted BWCA canoe trip the next — without switching providers. The site also states it was voted the highest Traveler Ranked resort in Ely, Minnesota by TripAdvisor and describes itself as a 5-star rated Ely MN resort.
Who It Fits
| If you want… | This works because… |
|---|---|
| A comfortable cabin base with lake access | 6 lakeside cabins, private docks, boat and fish finder rentals |
| A fully equipped BWCA canoe trip | All-inclusive Kevlar outfitting with gear, food, permits, and pick-up |
| A lighter, partial outfitting arrangement | Partial outfitting packages are offered alongside the all-inclusive option |
| Guided paddling or fishing | Canoe guides and fishing guides are part of the service |
| To bring a dog or young kids | Cabins are described as dog, kid, and family friendly |
Practical Next Step
If you're comparing Ely options, the useful question is whether you want lodging, outfitting, or both. Moose Track Adventures is set up for "both," which reduces coordination if your trip mixes cabin time with wilderness paddling. Check the BWCA trip planning resources on the site for permit and route details before booking, since Boundary Waters permits are limited and tied to specific entry points.