Shagawa Lake | Ely

Information

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

Shagawa Lake, Ely, USA Minnesota, North America

Shagawa Lake is a 2,570-acre body of water located in Saint Louis County, Minnesota, adjacent to the city of Ely.

Visual Characteristics

The lake features a shoreline composed primarily of Precambrian bedrock, including granite and basalt. Water color varies from clear to tea-colored, influenced by tannins from surrounding vegetation. Shoreline vegetation is dense with boreal forest species, including pine, spruce, and birch. The lakebed consists of sand, gravel, and some areas of muck.

Location & Access Logistics

Shagawa Lake is situated directly east of Ely, Minnesota. Access is primarily via State Highway 169, which runs along the southern edge of the lake. Several public access points and boat launches are available off Highway 169. Parking is available at designated boat launch areas. Ely is served by Greyhound bus lines, with connections to Duluth and Minneapolis. No direct public transport operates to the lake itself from Ely.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Shagawa Lake is a natural lake formed by glacial activity during the last ice age. The surrounding bedrock dates back approximately 2.7 billion years. Historically, the area was utilized by Indigenous peoples for fishing and hunting. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, logging operations impacted the surrounding forests.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include fishing for walleye, northern pike, and bass. Boating and kayaking are common. Hiking trails are accessible from points along the southern shore. Birdwatching is also a significant activity due to the diverse avian population.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Public restrooms are available at major boat launch sites. Limited shade is present along developed access points. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available near Highway 169 and within Ely, but can be intermittent on the lake itself. Food vendors and restaurants are located in the city of Ely, approximately 1-3 km from the lake's western edge.

Best Time to Visit

The best months for visiting are from May through October, with peak fishing season in late spring and early fall. For photography, early morning and late afternoon offer favorable lighting conditions. Ice fishing is possible during winter months, typically from December to March, when ice thickness is sufficient.

Facts & Legends

Shagawa Lake is known for its significant population of wild rice, which historically supported local communities. A local legend speaks of a large, elusive fish said to inhabit the lake's deeper sections, though no verifiable evidence exists.