Dorothy Molter Museum Map (2024)
Planning your visit to Knife Lake’s iconic root beer lady?
The Dorothy Molter Museum is located in Ely, Minnesota, and honors the life of Dorothy Molter, the “Root Beer Lady” of the Boundary Waters. The museum features her original cabins, historical exhibits, and memorabilia. It emphasizes wilderness heritage, resilience, and the history of independent living in the Northwoods.
The most up-to-date Dorothy Molter Museum Map makes it easy to find Dorothy’s original winter and summer cabins, the replica Isle of Pines store, and the hands-on Root Beer Lab. Take your time wandering the woodland path between buildings.
Whether you’re coming for the guided storytelling tour or to relax at the picnic grove, this layout helps you explore every cabin and exhibit without missing a beat.
Dorothy Molter Museum Map 2024
Dorothy Molter Museum Map 2024 updates include the addition of a new quiet space with a sensory boat garden featuring native plants and the introduction of sensory kits for visitors with sensory sensitivities. The museum also launched new digital resources, such as a walk-through video and printable social narratives, to help visitors prepare for their visit. A new seek-and-find activity was added, inviting guests to locate 11 of Dorothy’s Northwoods Animal Friends throughout the museum buildings, enhancing the interactive experience for all ages.
Printable Dorothy Molter Museum Map PDF 2024
FAQ
How old was the root beer lady when she died?
Dorothy Molter, known as the Root Beer Lady, was 79 years old when she died in 1986. She spent over 56 years living on Knife Lake in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Her legacy continues through the Dorothy Molter Museum and her famous root beer.
What lake did Dorothy Molter live on?
Dorothy Molter lived on Knife Lake in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness of northern Minnesota. She resided on the Isle of Pines, a remote island within the lake. Her home became a popular stop for thousands of canoeists each year.
Who was the last person to live in the Boundary Waters?
Dorothy Molter was the last permanent resident of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. She lived there until her death in 1986, after being granted lifetime tenancy by the U.S. government. Her presence marked the end of non-indigenous, full-time habitation in the area.
Who makes Dorothy Molter root beer?
Dorothy Molter’s root beer is now made and coordinated by the Dorothy Molter Museum in Ely, Minnesota. The museum continues her tradition by brewing “Dorothy’s Isle of Pines Root Beer” using water from Knife Lake. The root beer is available for purchase at the museum and select retailers.


