Ojibway and Triangle Lakes (recgovnpsdata), Ely, MN

Welcome to the pristine beauty of Ojibway and Triangle Lakes, a favored destination for Minnesota locals seeking an authentic Northwoods experience without the immediate restrictions of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). Located near the charming, rugged town of Ely, these connected lakes offer a unique blend of easy accessibility and true backcountry solitude, making them an ideal spot for a weekend getaway or the launching point for a longer wilderness expedition.

Managed by the Superior National Forest, the area around Ojibway and Triangle Lakes provides a valuable recreational opportunity, distinct from the designated wilderness areas. Here, you can immerse yourself in the clear waters, towering pines, and abundant wildlife that define Minnesota's Arrowhead Region. Whether you're a seasoned paddler, a dedicated angler, or simply looking for a quiet place to camp, Ojibway and Triangle Lakes offer a fantastic base to explore the magnificent wilderness that makes our state so special.

This article serves as your comprehensive guide to this beautiful location, outlining what local Minnesotans can expect from the amenities, accessibility, and unique features that set this destination apart.

Location and Accessibility

Ojibway and Triangle Lakes are situated approximately 14 miles northeast of the city of Ely, Minnesota, a well-known hub for wilderness adventure and outfitting. This relatively close proximity to a full-service community ensures convenience for stocking up on supplies before your trip.

Access is straightforward via well-maintained roads. From Ely, travelers take State Highway 169 (also known as the Fernberg Road or Forest Road 18) east for about 14 miles. A turn onto Forest Road 1540 leads you a half-mile directly to the Ojibway Lake access area. Here, you will find a parking area and a boat ramp, providing convenient access to the water.

Triangle Lake is easily accessed from Ojibway Lake via a short roller portage. While the primary campsites are only accessible by water, the ability to drive close to the launch and utilize a boat or canoe for the final leg of your journey makes this location highly accessible for those transporting gear. Overnight parking is generally available in the public boat launch area.

Services Offered

While the camping experience here leans toward the rustic, providing a true backcountry feel, a few essential amenities are provided by the Superior National Forest Service to ensure a pleasant and responsible visit:

Boat Ramp and Dock: Ojibway Lake features a back-down ramp for launching watercraft, including motorboats, which are permitted on both Ojibway and Triangle Lakes.
Parking Area: Designated parking is available for visitors, including overnight parking for those camping or launching into the BWCAW.
Picnic Area: A small picnic area is located near the Ojibway Lake access point for day-use visitors.
Restrooms: Basic restroom facilities are provided near the parking and picnic areas.
Backcountry Campsites: There are a limited number of backcountry campsites, typically two on Ojibway Lake and two on Triangle Lake. These sites are remote and accessible only by watercraft.
Latrines and Fire Rings: Designated campsites are equipped with basic facilities such as fire rings and latrines to minimize visitor impact.
Cell Service: Due to the proximity to Ely and the main road, cell phone service (including T-Mobile, Verizon LTE, and AT&T LTE) is often available in and around the area, which can be a comfort for many visitors.

Features / Highlights

Ojibway and Triangle Lakes hold a special appeal for a variety of outdoor enthusiasts, offering a mix of relaxation and adventure:

No Permit Required for Camping on the Lakes: A significant draw for many Minnesotans is the ability to camp on the island backcountry sites of Ojibway and Triangle Lakes without needing a quota permit for the BWCAW. This flexibility is ideal for last-minute trips or for groups not quite ready for the full wilderness experience.
Gateway to the Boundary Waters: These lakes serve as the access route for BWCAW Entry Point 29 (North Kawishiwi River). This makes them a perfect spot for staging the night before an official BWCA trip, allowing for an early morning start.
Motorboat Permitted: Unlike the protected BWCAW, both Ojibway and Triangle Lakes permit the use of motorboats, which is a major benefit for anglers and larger groups carrying extensive gear.
Excellent Fishing Opportunities: The clear waters of these lakes are known to hold a variety of popular game fish, including Lake Trout, Walleye, Northern Pike, and Bass. The mix of easy access and quality fishing makes it a favorite for local fishermen.
Rustic Cabins Available Nearby: While the lake campsites are primitive, commercial operations nearby sometimes offer unique lodging, such as remote log cabins on Triangle Lake, which can provide a base for winter activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, as well as a more comfortable remote experience.
Stunning Northwoods Scenery: The natural beauty is unparalleled, featuring classic northern Minnesota landscapes of rocky shorelines, dense pine and birch forests, and crystal-clear water.

Contact Information

As a location managed by the U.S. Forest Service within the Superior National Forest, general inquiries should be directed to the local Ranger District Office.

Address: Ojibway and Triangle Lakes Access, Ely, MN 55731, USA (Access point is located off Forest Road 1540.)

For specific information regarding current conditions, regulations, and the surrounding area, please contact the Superior National Forest, Kawishiwi Ranger District:

Address: 1393 Highway 169, Ely, MN 55731
Phone: (218) 365-7600

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Minnesotans, Ojibway and Triangle Lakes embody the best of what the state's wilderness has to offer, yet with an accommodating twist. This destination is perfectly suited for locals because it strikes an ideal balance between rugged isolation and practical convenience. It's close enough to Ely to be an easy drive but remote enough to feel like a true escape.

The unique allowance of motorboats and the absence of a required BWCAW entry permit for the lakes themselves make this an incredibly flexible option. It's an excellent choice for families introducing children to wilderness camping, anglers who rely on motors to cover distance, or groups simply looking for a spontaneous weekend trip without the months-long planning required for the deeper wilderness.

The positive customer experiences—highlighting the "remote rustic setting" and the opportunity to "get away from hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in nature"—confirm its status as a quintessential Minnesota retreat. Whether you are prepping for a Boundary Waters adventure, spending a day fishing for walleye, or settling in for a quiet night by the campfire on a remote island site, Ojibway and Triangle Lakes offer an accessible, unforgettable piece of the Superior National Forest right in your backyard.