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Shagawa Inn Resort

Rustic lakeside resort with fishing dock and sandy beach, rated 4.6/5 from 30 reviews. Near Ely, MN, Superior National Forest, and top attractions like the International Wolf Center.

1973 W Shagawa Rd, Ely, MN 55731, United States View on map
9.2/10
Exceptional Based on 31 recent guest reviews
Free Wi-Fi Parking Kid-friendly
What recent guests emphasize

Relaxed lakeside retreat with rustic charm

Visitors appreciate the peaceful setting on Shagawa Lake, friendly service, and convenient location near Ely’s attractions. The simple, clean accommodations and outdoor amenities are noted as highlights, while some practical limitations may influence expectations.

Guests often praise

  • The serene lakeside setting with private docks and beautiful views.
  • Friendly, attentive staff contributing to a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Clean, rustic accommodations with a cozy, homely feel.
  • Proximity to downtown Ely and local attractions like the Boundary Waters.
  • Well-maintained outdoor spaces including fire pits, grills, and fishing docks.

Worth knowing

  • No on-site restaurant or kitchen facilities in motel cabin rooms.
  • Seasonal operation with amenities suited for a tranquil, laid-back stay.
  • No pool or fitness center available on the property.
  • Accommodations tend to be modest in size but provide essential comforts.
  • Parking is available, but those expecting a full-service resort experience may find limited options.

Best for

  • Travelers seeking a quiet, rustic lakeside getaway close to nature.
  • Visitors planning to explore Ely and nearby natural attractions.
  • Families or groups looking for kid-friendly outdoor spaces.
  • Outdoor enthusiasts who value fishing, boating, and scenic relaxation.
  • Budget-conscious guests wanting clean, simple lodging with lake access.
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About this property

Welcome to Shagawa Inn Resort

Shagawa Inn Resort is a laid-back seasonal inn situated on the shores of Shagawa Lake within the Superior National Forest. The rustic accommodations include motel-style rooms and cabins that offer basic amenities and easy access to a sandy beach and fishing dock. Guest reviews often highlight the peaceful lakeside setting and the homely, family-run atmosphere that characterizes the property.

The resort provides practical conveniences such as free Wi-Fi and parking, making it suitable for travelers who value simplicity over extensive facilities, as it does not offer a swimming pool, restaurant, or fitness center. While food options on-site are limited, nearby Ely offers dining and attractions within a short drive, complementing the inn’s quiet environment.

Located approximately 2 miles from downtown Ely and close to points of interest like the International Wolf Center and the North American Bear Center, Shagawa Inn Resort is a practical choice for visitors planning to explore the local wildlife and outdoor activities. The proximity to Range Regional Airport, about an hour’s drive away, also adds to its accessibility.

Guests looking for a simple, lakeside retreat with easy access to outdoor recreation and Ely’s cultural sites may find this inn fits their needs well. While some reviewers mention modest room sizes and basic amenities, many appreciate the scenic views, private docks, and the friendly, attentive service from the inn’s staff.

Summary compiled by GoHotelly editors from verified guest reviews, partner descriptions and editorial notes.
Facilities & essentials

What's on-site and what you should know before you arrive

The short version: what's available day-to-day, and the key practical details most travelers search for.

Most popular facilities

Free Wi-Fi
Parking
Kid-friendly

Not available at this property

Pool
Restaurant
Fitness center
Verified guest reviews

What recent guests are actually saying

Reviews from travelers who stayed here in the last 12 months, grouped to help you spot the pattern quickly.

DE
Don English Apr 14, 2026
10

Place is awesome i go every year nice people and great fishing

BN
Birgit Novacek Apr 09, 2026
10

Only came for the breakfast, but wow, yummy! Could easily split the hashbrowns breakfast. Large portions. Service was very good. Attentive. Quaint and rustic place. Wish it would have been warmer outside to enjoy our meal out on the deck.

EW
Erin Warner Mar 25, 2026
10

Shagawa fit our needs perfectly. We were looking for somewhere to stay for a night before we left for our trip in the BWCA. We stayed in a motel room which was like a duplex cabin. It was clean, had the basic necessities, and the the price was great. The bonus is that the cabin we had was right on the lake and the front yard area had a fire pit, grill, and great view. We would have liked to stay longer. Also, it's super close to everything in Ely and seems like it's been run by a very nice family for a long time.

HH
Hayley Hawkinson Mar 19, 2026
10

A lovely stop on our way in and out of the boundry waters. Very friendly!

BP
Brandon Pearson Mar 14, 2026
10

I was right on the lake, Even though the room was small the view made up for it an for $100 a night was worth it

CA
Craig Anderson Mar 13, 2026
10

Jim was very pleasant to work with. Large campsite, enclosed trash and recycling bins, awesome red pines. Boat launch and docking for a small fee. Close enough to town, but far enough to feel like we were away. Clean, newer bathroom for campers.

PD
Pam Droste Mar 07, 2026
10

We love this place! We've camped and stayed in cabins. Close to town so we often ride our bikes. Quiet and peaceful. Private docks for most cabins.

JL
jim lewis Feb 08, 2026
10

Great little homie atmosphere and very friendly. Fair priced and most everything you need. There was no kitchen at all in the motel room cabin we stayed in. Being surrounded by the lake was great.

Location & neighborhood

Where you'll find Shagawa Inn Resort

Ely, Minnesota, USA

This rustic seasonal inn on the shores of Shagawa Lake in the Superior National Forest is 2 miles from downtown Ely and 3 miles from the International Wolf Center.

  • Range Regional Airport 1 hr 18 Car
Things to do nearby

Worth the walk or a quick ride

Curated spots travelers usually pair with a stay in Minnesota. Distances are rough real-world times, not straight-line.

International Wolf Center 1,507 reviews

International Wolf Center

1396 MN-169, Ely, MN 55731, United States

4.6 · Wildlife Refuge
North American Bear Center 1 reviews

North American Bear Center

1926 MN-169, Ely, MN 55731, United States

4.8 · Wildlife Park
Dorothy Molter Museum 265 reviews

Dorothy Molter Museum

2002 E Sheridan St, Ely, MN 55731, United States

4.7 · History Museum
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