Ely Surplus & Outdoor

First of all, there's very little "Surplus" here, as during my recent visit, the merchandise looked all well stocked and new. The person at the counter subsequently informed me that the current owner kept the name when it was purchased from the previous occupant. Nonetheless, I found what I needed quickly, thought the price was reasonable, and was pleased both as I left, and subsequently when I put them to use.

What did I buy? Knee high rubber boots. Our Moose Track Adventures canoe trip guide had a pair on that I admired, and since I needed a pair for an upcoming trip to the Peruvian Amazon, that was good enough for me.

At the end of the Amazon trip, we were asked whether we wished to donate the boots. I liked the fit, comfort, and versatility of my LaCrosse boots so much that I declined in favor of my next Earthwatch adventure.

An excellent place to go for the basics when you're up north. Every time I'm in Ely, I swing by. Prices are generally better than your typical REI, etc. Not exactly what I would call "surplus" since most of the items seem to be new. The space is also pretty small, so it can seem cramped with other people in the store.

Need to kill some time? You should definitely stop in Ely's Surplus Store. It reminds of an Ax Man only it is geared towards campers. The store is casual & unpretentious where you may score a good deal. I didn't expect to buy anything this past weekend but walked out with a camping spoon, new hat, and a lumberjack beer cover (humorous gift for a friend). It's a fun odds-and-ends place worth checking out. I usually stop here whenever I'm passing through to the BWCA.

Nice store! Variety of items that were great prices. I found myself a very nice warm pair of gloves that'll be great in the winter and still work for my photography as well without being too bulky and in the way.

Huh...I'm suprised there are no other reviews for this place. I stop here 3-4 times a year when i'm in Ely. If you are buying camping basics such as coleman fuel, you will find the prices about half the price of the "tourist outfitters" store a few hunderd yards away. I purchased a pair of redwing irish setter boots (the made in MN ones) here about 15 years ago-best price I found anywhere-still have them. Always a worthwhile stop.