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place 3788 North Arm Road
Ely, MN 55731

Founded in 1929, Camp Widjiwagan has been providing transformative wilderness experiences for youth from the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in northeastern Minnesota. Through transformative wilderness travel and environmental learning experiences, youth participants build leadership skills, gain confidence and explore extraordinary places.

And just like all YMCA of the North adventure centers, we strive to build upon the Y's core values as part of our Camp Culture and Community Commitment.


This business operates on behalf of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness program located within the Superior National Forest. As a BWCAW program Cooperator, this business is an equal opportunity service provider.

Canoe Trips

Experience the challenge of navigating waterways and living in the great outdoors. Our trips progress in difficulty, giving participants new challenges year after year.

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Backpacking Trips

Backpacking is an excellent way for teens of all skill levels to experience the wonders of wild places! The YMCA offers trips of increasing challenge and length to match the maturity, leadership, and skills of our participants.

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Two teenagers stop to pose on a hiking trail.
Teen Wilderness Handbook

Get ready for your summer wilderness experience, including what to expect and how to prepare.

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Fall, Winter, and Spring

Upcoming Events

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Fall Women's Retreat

event September 22 – 24, 2023
Friday-Sunday
schedule 5:00pm-2:00pm
place YMCA Camp Widjiwagan
Ely, MN

More Seasonal Adventures

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Personal and professional use

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Hands-on outdoor education

Two young ladies at a climbing course

Making adventure more accessible

The YMCA offers need-based financial assistance to help people access the programs that are important to them.

Here to Help

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