Best Lakes for Swimming Near Ely
Minnesota
15 swimming lakes within driving distance of Ely, Minnesota, ranked by water quality and swimming-specific filters. Filtered for grade A or B water quality, low algae (chlorophyll-a under 15 µg/L), and public access. Always check local advisories on the day you swim.
| # | Lake | County | Grade | Distance | Clarity | Depth |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Little Long Lake | St. Louis | A | 2.8 mi | 21 ft | 45 ft |
| 2 | Burntside Lake | St. Louis | A | 6 mi | 16 ft | 126 ft |
| 3 | Armstrong Lake | St. Louis | A | 10.4 mi | 16.2 ft | 34 ft |
| 4 | Eagles Nest Lake | St. Louis | A | 12 mi | 15.5 ft | 49 ft |
| 5 | Tofte Lake | Lake | A | 14.3 mi | 18.5 ft | 73 ft |
| 6 | Dunnigan Lake | Lake | A | 17.5 mi | 33.2 ft | - |
| 7 | Meander Lake | St. Louis | A | 20.6 mi | 27.9 ft | - |
| 8 | Bear Head Lake | St. Louis | A | 12.9 mi | 11 ft | 46 ft |
| 9 | Fenske Lake | St. Louis | B | 6.5 mi | 11.5 ft | 43 ft |
| 10 | Moose Lake | Lake | B | 18.7 mi | 13 ft | 65 ft |
| 11 | Snowbank Lake | Lake | B | 21 mi | 11 ft | 150 ft |
| 12 | Campers Lake | Lake | B | 21.1 mi | - | 2.5 ft |
| 13 | White Iron Lake | Lake | B | 4.1 mi | 4.5 ft | 47 ft |
| 14 | Garden Lake | Lake | B | 6 mi | 5 ft | 55 ft |
| 15 | Farm Lake | Lake | B | 6.5 mi | 5.5 ft | 56 ft |