Grouse Hunting in Ely, Minnesota

Welcome to the grouse hunting paradise of Ely, Minnesota—a rugged, wild slice of northeastern Minnesota where ruffed and spruce grouse thrive across the vast Superior National Forest and near by Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCA). Known for its thick forests, aspen stands, and endless public land, Ely offers hunters unmatched terrain and a true DIY adventure, whether you’re roaring down OHV trails, trekking on foot or canoe. Hit the Echo Trail’s gravel roads and side paths for low-pressure hunts, or venture into the big woods of the BWCA for a challenge that rewards skill and grit. Peak season hits in mid-to-late fall—October to November—when leaves drop, birds edge out, and every flush feels earned. Whether you’re a dog hunter navigating dense cover or an OHV rider cruising the endless trails south of Ely, Ely delivers solitude and prime grouse country that’s tough to beat.

At Arrowhead Outdoors in Ely, we’re your launchpad for the hunt. Stock up on ammo, blaze orange gear, and local insights to bag your limit—all at prices that keep your wallet happy.

Prime Public Lands for Grouse

Ely’s public lands offer boundless opportunities to chase grouse. Here’s where to point your boots or paddle:

  • Superior National Forest: Wrapping around Ely, this 3-million-acre playground is grouse central. Look for young aspen and pine edges—grouse magnets—and hit access points like the Echo Trail, Fernberg Road and Tomahawk Road.

  • Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW): North of Ely, the BWCAW’s million acres beckon with a backcountry grouse hunt like no other. Hunting’s permitted here, but it’s canoe-and-portage only—no motors allowed. Try shorelines near Basswood Lake or Lake One for flushes amid aspen and conifer.

  • Bear Island State Forest: South of Ely, this 157,000-acre gem mixes hardwoods and lowlands, perfect for grouse. Trails and logging roads make it easy to explore.

  • Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs): Smaller parcels like the Embarrass River WMA, 20 miles southwest of Ely, pack a punch with grouse-friendly young forests.

The Minnesota DNR and U.S. Forest Service keep these lands open for hunting. Check the DNR Hunting Regulations for seasons and rules, especially in the BWCAW’s stricter wilderness zones.

ORV Trails: Getting to the Birds

For hunters who love horsepower, Ely’s ORV trails carve through public lands to prime grouse territory. Gas up your ATV or side-by-side and roll out:

  • Echo Trail: This 36-mile gravel route northwest of Ely slices through Superior National Forest. Side paths and logging roads teem with grouse dusting spots.

  • Tomahawk Trail: Stretching 80 miles from Ely to Tower, this system hugs Bear Island State Forest. Spur trails dip into thick cover where grouse hide.

  • North Shore State Trail: A snowmobilers favorite, parts near Ely open to ORVs in fall, leading deep into Superior National Forest. Pick up a map and top off your supplies at Arrowhead Outdoors.

Grab trail maps from the DNR’s ORV page or Ely Chamber of Commerce, and stick to designated routes. The BWCAW’s off-limits to ORVs, so save that for your canoe trips. A GPS or onX Hunt app can pinpoint grouse flushes.