Ely

Where: Ely

Why: Boundary Waters country

How: By car, it’s four-plus hours north via I–35, then Highways 53 and 169.

Stay: The postcard-perfect Burntside Lodge (218-365-3894) offers a good dose of serenity—no TVs or phones. Cabins are reserved on a nightly or weekly basis (from $130). Request #26, the most photographed log cabin in the state.

Eat: Even if you can’t stay at the lodge, you can take in the lake views from the dining room. Burntside offers steak and seafood and has won Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence.

Pack: A camera. This lodge is one of the state’s most photographed places.

P.S.: Even if you can’t manage a Boundary Waters overnight permit, you can get a day pass at the lodge and explore the wilderness area by foot or canoe.