Ely & BWCA to MSP Airport Transportation (Private, Flat-Rate Service) » Ely/BWCA ⇄ MSP Airport Transportation – Frequently Asked Questions

We serve MSP Airport (Terminals 1 & 2), Ely, MN, nearby lodges and cabins, many BWCA entry points and staging areas, selected Lake Vermilion resorts, and certain Superior National Forest and Gunflint Trail locations. If your cabin, lodge, or outfitter is on a drivable road, we can usually provide service—share the exact address or directions when you request a quote and we will confirm.

Citywide is a private transportation service. We do not combine unrelated parties. Your trip is reserved for your group only, with pickup times and routing planned around your flight schedule, cabin or lodge check-in window, and BWCA itinerary.

We use a zone-based, flat-rate pricing system. Each zone covers a general area (for example, Ely city and close lodging, deeper BWCA entry points, Lake Vermilion resorts, or certain Superior National Forest and Gunflint Trail locations). Within a zone, we publish flat rates for Basic Car, Black Car, and Large Van. This keeps prices predictable, even when travel times vary with weather or traffic.

For special destinations or complex routes, we may provide a custom flat-rate quote instead of a standard chart.

Yes. We offer door-to-door service whenever roads are safely drivable. Your driver will meet you at MSP, help you get settled, and then drive directly to your lodge, cabin, or outfitter staging area. If access is limited (seasonal roads or narrow driveways), we will discuss the best drop-off location ahead of time.

For peak summer and popular BWCA permit dates, the earlier the better. Once you know your flights and lodging/permit dates, it’s a good time to secure transportation. Shoulder seasons and winter can have more flexibility, but certain weekends and holidays still fill quickly.

Yes. Ely/BWCA ⇄ MSP rides are scheduled by appointment, including early-morning departures and late-night arrivals, subject to availability and road conditions. When you request a quote, share your flight times and we’ll recommend realistic pickup times on both ends.

Your driver will track your incoming flight and adjust your pickup window within reason when delays occur. If your plans change significantly or your flight is rebooked, contact us as soon as possible so we can adjust your Ely/BWCA ⇄ MSP transportation plan and talk through options for your new arrival or departure time.

For the most accurate quote, please provide:

• Your pickup and drop-off locations (MSP and exact lodge/cabin/outfitter/entry point).
• Your dates, approximate times, and flight details if applicable.
• The number of passengers and an overview of your gear.
• Any special requests such as pets, supply stops, or additional pickups/drop-offs.

With that information, we can confirm routing and provide a flat-rate price for your trip.

For 1–3 travelers with standard luggage and light gear, a Basic Car is often the best fit. If you prefer extra comfort or a quieter ride, Black Car is a good choice, especially after long flights. For larger groups or heavy gear (canoes staged separately, portage packs, coolers, etc.), a Large Van typically offers the most comfortable layout.

Share your group size and gear list when you request a quote and we’ll recommend the best option.

Yes. Our Ely/BWCA trips are commonly used by canoe crews, cabin groups, and fishing parties. We can carry packs, paddles, rods, and food tubs in our vehicles and vans. Canoes are usually arranged through outfitters or staged separately; if you have a special situation, describe it when you contact us and we will let you know what is possible.

Yes, most Ely/BWCA routes are pet-friendly. Please mention pets when booking so we can note it for your driver, assign the best vehicle, and plan for short breaks if your pet needs them on the way north or back to MSP.

In winter, road conditions, daylight, and weather matter more. Plowed access, clear directions, and extra travel time all help keep the trip safe and comfortable. We still provide Ely/BWCA ⇄ MSP transportation during the winter months, but we will review your destination, timing, and any access concerns before confirming.

If your cabin or entry location has limited winter access, please check with your host or outfitter and share any special instructions with us when you request a quote.