Burntside Lake | Ely

Information

Landmark: Burntside Lake
City: Ely
Country: USA Minnesota
Continent: North America

Burntside Lake, Ely, USA Minnesota, North America

Burntside Lake is a large freshwater lake situated in Saint Louis County, Minnesota, near the city of Ely.

It is recognized as the largest lake within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

Visual Characteristics

The lake's surface area is approximately 9,286 acres. Its shoreline is irregular, featuring numerous bays and islands. The water clarity varies, with deeper sections appearing dark, while shallower areas can be clearer. The surrounding vegetation consists primarily of boreal forest, including pine, spruce, and birch trees.

Location & Access Logistics

Burntside Lake is located approximately 10 miles (16 km) northwest of Ely, Minnesota. Access is primarily via County Road 135 (also known as the Echo Trail). Several public access points and boat launches are available along the Echo Trail. Parking is available at designated access points, though capacity can be limited during peak seasons. No public transport services operate directly to the lake access points.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Burntside Lake was formed by glacial activity during the last ice age. The lake basin was carved by retreating glaciers, leaving behind the depressions that now hold its waters. The surrounding landscape is characteristic of the Canadian Shield, an ancient geological formation.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. The lake supports populations of walleye, northern pike, and smallmouth bass. Designated campsites are available for overnight stays, accessible by watercraft. Hiking trails are present on some of the larger islands.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Public access points typically include boat launches and primitive campsites. Restrooms are not consistently available at all access points; visitors should plan accordingly. Shade is provided by the surrounding forest. Cell phone signal is generally unreliable within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, including on Burntside Lake.

Best Time to Visit

The optimal period for visiting Burntside Lake is from late May through September. Summer months (June-August) offer the warmest weather for water activities. Early morning and late evening provide the best lighting conditions for photography due to reduced glare on the water.

Facts & Legends

A notable historical event associated with Burntside Lake is its role in the logging industry in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Logs were driven down the lake and its outlet rivers to sawmills. Local lore sometimes refers to the lake's depth and the potential for submerged features.