A Peak Experience (Well, Almost)

**YES we are behind and working to get caught up!! 😅

Today we went on a sweet little 3.75-mile hike to Ely’s Peak, one of Duluth’s hidden gems for anyone who enjoys a good view. Not a terribly long hike, but one with some good elevation (for the area) and lots to see and a cool old rail tunnel (DWP Trail).

On the other side of the tunnel, we came across a group of kids rock climbing—looked like an adventure camp. It was honestly impressive watching the older teens or young adults leading the charge, patiently reminding the kids of their climbing tips as they scaled the rock wall. Felt like we were watching little mountain goats in training.

Once at Ely’s Peak it offered the kind of view that makes you stop, breathe deep and just take it all in. Towering just under 1,200 feet, it gives sweeping views of the St. Louis River valley—the perfect time for a scenic snack break.

Feeling ambitious, we pushed on to Ely’s Peak Overlook… which turned out to be more of an Ely’s Peek. As in, a peek through overgrown brush with zero actual view. We laughed, shrugged, and moved on down the mountain.

Not the longest hike ever, but it checked all the boxes: a good climb, a cool tunnel, some dirt on our shoes, and a few good laughs along the way.Read more