Meet Spirit of the Wilderness
Family-Owned. Passion-Driven. Northwoods Experts.
At Spirit of the Wilderness, we’re more than just an outfitter — we’re a family that’s been sharing the magic of the Boundary Waters and Quetico for over 30 years.
Owned and operated by Steve, Kathy, and Ginny, our business is rooted in a love for the wilderness and a passion for helping others experience it safely, confidently, and meaningfully.
Why Our Guests Keep Coming Back
From first-time paddlers to seasoned explorers, our guests trust us because of:
• Our reputation for personal service
• High-quality gear and canoes
• An educational, hands-on approach to outfitting
• Over three decades of guiding and backcountry expertise
Many of our first-time guests start with a guided trip — and return year after year as confident, independent travelers who still choose us for gear, planning, and support. That’s the kind of long-term relationship we’re proud to build.
A Partnership Built on Trust & Adventure
We believe that in your quest for wilderness, the outfitter you choose becomes more than a service — they become a partner, and often, a friend.
Whether you’re seeking solitude, adventure, or connection, we invite you to explore the BWCA or Quetico with us by your side.
Let Spirit of the Wilderness outfit your next unforgettable journey.
Plan Your Boundary Waters Adventure
The Spirit Team
Steve Nelson
Owner / Guide
Steve is an owner and guide at Spirit of the Wilderness. A self-proclaimed “corporate dropout”, Steve loved canoeing the Boundary Waters as a Boy Scout and that led him to purchase Spirit of the Wilderness.
Kathy Nelson
Owner
Kathy is the brains behind the scene at Spirit of the Wilderness. She has been traveling the BWCA since her first trip with the Girl Scouts in the 60’s.
Ginny Nelson
Owner / Manager
Ginny grew up camping and canoeing during family vacations. She paid her dues at the University of Minnesota-Duluth and decided to go into business with her parents.
Our Services
Spirit of the Wilderness Outfitting and Outdoor Store is located on the east end of Ely, Minnesota. We are centrally located to service all the Ely area Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness permit entry points. Our guests find us an easy one-stop shop before they head into the BWCA or Canada’s Quetico Park to the north.
Questions about our services?
Call or email us for details – or use the form below.
- Boundary Waters & Quetico Permits
- BWCA Outfitting
- Kevlar Canoe Repair & Reconditioning
- Fishing Seminars
- Guided Trips
- Complete or Partial Outfitting
- Canoe & Kayak Rental
- Professional Routing & Maps
- Entry Point Transportation
- Towboat Service
- Camping Gear
- Fishing Tackle & Live Bait
- Outdoor Clothing & Footwear
- Online Store
- And Much More!