Best Western Plus Arrowhead Lodge and Suites is located at 1989 Highway 169 on the outskirts of Ely, Minnesota, serving as a reliable mid-range base for visitors to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, one of North America's premier paddling and fishing destinations. The property offers rooms including Standard Queens, King Suites, and Accessible Rooms, each providing the consistent quality standards of the Best Western Plus tier with amenities well-suited to outdoor travelers returning from multi-day canoe trips or preparing for extended wilderness excursions. An indoor pool and hot tub are welcome features for guests arriving in the colder months, when ice fishing and snowshoeing replace the summer paddling season. A modern fitness center provides an option to exercise on rest days, and free continental breakfast is included in the nightly rate, reducing the logistical burden for early-morning departures onto Boundary Waters lake systems. Free parking accommodates canoe-laden vehicles and trailers. The hotel's pet-friendly policy is a practical asset in a wilderness destination where dogs are common trail and paddling companions. Ely's compact downtown sits a short drive from the property, offering outfitter shops, bait and tackle suppliers, and locally operated restaurants that collectively sustain the town's reputation as the gateway to the Boundary Waters. The International Wolf Center and the North American Bear Center, two of northern Minnesota's most distinctive wildlife attractions, are within easy reach of the hotel. Best Western Plus Arrowhead Lodge and Suites provides dependable comfort at a reasonable price for the northern Minnesota wilderness travel market.
Room types
- Standard Queen
- King Suite
- Accessible Room
Amenities
- Indoor pool
- Hot tub
- Fitness center
- Free continental breakfast
- Free parking
- Pet-friendly
Location
1989 Hwy 169, Ely, MN 55731
47.9009, -91.8740 View on map
Highlights
- Gateway location for the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness at the edge of Ely, Minnesota
- Indoor pool and hot tub — ideal for warming up after cold-weather wilderness excursions
- Free continental breakfast included, supporting early morning Boundary Waters departures
- Pet-friendly hotel with free parking accommodating canoe trailers and outdoor gear vehicles
- Walking and driving distance to the International Wolf Center and North American Bear Center
Tips for visiting
- Book well in advance for the peak canoe season of June through August when Ely fills quickly
- Lodge staff can often advise on current Boundary Waters entry point conditions before planning lake routes
- The indoor hot tub is particularly welcome after multi-day canoe trips in cold or rainy weather
- Several outfitter shops operate in Ely for permit advice, gear rentals, and detailed route planning assistance
- The International Wolf Center is open year-round and is one of northern Minnesota's most visited attractions
Accessibility
Best Western Plus Arrowhead Lodge and Suites offers ADA-compliant accessible guest rooms with roll-in showers, wider doorways, and appropriate fixtures. The ground-floor entrance and free parking lot are wheelchair accessible. Guests with specific mobility or accessibility requirements should contact the hotel directly when making a reservation.
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Frequently asked questions
Is the Best Western Plus Arrowhead Lodge close to the Boundary Waters?
Yes, the hotel at 1989 Hwy 169 is in Ely, one of the primary gateway towns to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Canoe entry points are typically 10-30 minutes from the property.
Does the hotel have an indoor pool?
Yes, the property features an indoor pool and a hot tub, along with a fitness center. These are particularly popular in spring and fall when outdoor temperatures are cold.
Is breakfast included at the Best Western Plus Arrowhead Lodge?
Yes, a free continental breakfast is included in the room rate, making it practical for early morning departures onto Boundary Waters lake entry points.
Is the hotel pet-friendly?
Yes, the hotel welcomes pets, which is a practical consideration for wilderness travelers who bring dogs. Guests should confirm the pet policy and any applicable fees when booking.