Backcountry Sauna & Swim: Finnish-Style Adventure Near Ely, Minnesota
Experience a Finnish-style sauna and swim tucked in Minnesota’s wilderness near Ely. This moderate 3-mile hike combines forest tranquility with the thrill of a hot sauna followed by a plunging lake swim, creating an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Trail Tips
Wear sturdy boots with grip
The trail is uneven with roots and patches of moss—footwear that offers support and traction will keep your footing secure.
Hydrate before and after
Transitioning from the sauna’s heat to the cold lake can dehydrate you faster. Bring at least two liters of water.
Plan your visit mid-morning to afternoon
Daylight warmth enhances both the hike and the swim experience, reducing early morning chill and forest shadowing.
Use insect repellent during summer and early fall
Mosquitoes and ticks are active near the water and woods; repellent protects your skin while maintaining comfort.
Backcountry Sauna & Swim: Finnish-Style Adventure Near Ely, Minnesota
Stretch your legs on a 3-mile hike weaving through northern Minnesota’s dense pine and birch forests where the air hums with the whisper of wind and the occasional call of a loon. This is no ordinary trail—it’s a passage to a Finnish-style backcountry sauna perched lakeside, daring you to step into a tradition that’s as much about community as it is about immersion in nature. The path presents a moderate challenge: gentle elevation changes totaling about 300 feet, packed earth mingled with scattered roots and moss, keeping your footing honest but manageable. Once you arrive, the sauna’s cedar walls radiate warmth and promise—a reward earned with each steady step.
The experience is only half the adventure. From steaming heat, plunge into the crisp waters of Fall Lake, where currents nudge you awake and the open sky stretches wide beyond the tree line. This natural contrast demands respect, balancing sheer refreshment with the invigorating chill that sharpens your senses. Plan your visit mid-morning to afternoon hours to maximize light and temperature comfort.
Practical gearing makes all the difference: sturdy waterproof boots to navigate the damp and uneven trail, a quick-dry towel, and a change of clothes for after the swim. Bring a water bottle; hydration is key when you go from hot sauna to cold lake with your muscles working hard throughout. A small backpack with snacks and insect repellent rounds out your essentials.
Seasonally, late spring through early fall is prime time. Spring welcomes budding greenery and vibrant birdcalls but watch for soggy trails from melting snow. Summer offers full warmth but comes with mosquitoes and ticks that dare to test your patience. Fall shifts the palette to crisp yellows, with fewer bugs and cooler swims. Winter seals this route under snow, best saved for experienced adventurers with snowshoes and thermal gear.
Nearby, Ely serves as your staging point—offering cozy lodges, rental gear shops, and local tips for navigating the wilderness responsibly. This is a spot where the land is fiercely itself, demanding attention and rewarding those who approach with preparation and respect. The backcountry sauna and swim invitation is clear: step into a Finnish tradition grounded in practical adventure, raw nature, and a refreshing sense of achievement.
Recommended Gear
Sturdy hiking boots
Provide support and grip on uneven terrain, preventing slips on moss and roots.
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Quick-dry towel
Essential for drying off after the lake swim without carrying excess weight or moisture.
summer specific
Hydration pack or water bottle
Maintains hydration levels between sauna heat and refreshing swims.
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Insect repellent
Keeps mosquitoes and ticks at bay during warmer months around the water and forest edges.
summer specific
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the backcountry sauna open year-round?
No, the sauna is generally accessible from late spring to early fall when trails are free of snow. Winter access is limited and requires specialized gear.
How cold is the lake water for swimming?
Lake temperatures vary by season, ranging from mid-50s°F in spring and fall to 70s°F in summer. The cold plunge is invigorating but demands caution.
Can beginners handle this trail?
Yes, the trail is moderately rated and suitable for reasonably fit beginners. Steady pace, proper footwear, and pacing breaks make it enjoyable for most.
Are there restroom facilities near the sauna?
No formal restrooms exist at the sauna site. Plan accordingly by using facilities in Ely or along the main trailhead before departing.
Is swimming mandatory after the sauna?
No, while the traditional Finnish experience pairs sauna heat with a lake plunge, you can choose to skip the swim and still enjoy the sauna’s warmth.
Are permits required to access the sauna trail?
No permits are necessary. However, follow Leave No Trace principles and respect any seasonal trail closures or guidelines.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- "A nearby rocky outcrop offers panoramic views of Fall Lake’s quiet coves—perfect for a rest stop away from the main trail."
- "Small wildflower patches bloom sporadically along the less-traveled side paths, showcasing native species unique to northern Minnesota."
Wildlife
- "Watch for white-tailed deer quietly slipping through the forest and be alert for loons calling across the lake, whose presence signals healthy waters."
- "Black bears roam the region but are typically shy; secure food and store it properly."
History
"Finnish immigrants brought the sauna tradition to northern Minnesota over a century ago. This sauna honors their cultural legacy, blending heritage with wilderness experience."
