#12 Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota
When I think of Voyageurs National Park, the first thing that comes to mind is mayflies. It may seem unusual, but during my visit, they were everywhere. I arrived at Voyageurs on a June morning after making the three-hour drive from Duluth, MN, to the Rainy Lake Visitor Center. Situated so far north in Minnesota, the park's waters occasionally extend into Canada, adding a unique cross-border element to the experience.
Since Voyageurs is primarily a water-based park, I opted for the recommended boat tour. I pre-booked my tickets online, but tickets can also be purchased at the visitor center. However, I strongly recommend reserving in advance due to limited space. You can book your tour through the National Park Service’s official website.
About the Park
Voyageurs National Park, located near the Canadian border in northern Minnesota, is a natural sanctuary known for its interconnected waterways, lush forests, and rich history. Covering over 200,000 acres, the park is a haven for boating, fishing, kayaking, and paddling. It is named after the French-Canadian voyageurs, fur traders who navigated these waters in the 18th and 19th centuries. Their legacy is preserved through historical sites and exhibits within the park.
In addition to its waterways, Voyageurs National Park is a fantastic destination for wildlife watching, with frequent sightings of bald eagles, loons, and beavers. The park is also designated as an International Dark Sky Park, offering exceptional stargazing opportunities.
Rainy Lake Visitor Center
Visitor Centers
Voyageurs National Park has 3 visitor centers, each offering a unique experience:
Rainy Lake Visitor Center: Located near International Falls, this is the most popular visitor center. It features exhibits, maps, and information on the park’s natural and cultural history. It also serves as the main departure point for boat tours.
Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center: Situated near Kabetogama Lake, this center offers a more remote experience with exhibits on the park’s wildlife and history. It is a great starting point for exploring the southern part of the park.
Ash River Visitor Center: A smaller visitor center near the Ash River area, it provides valuable insights into the park’s wilderness and access to trails and boat tours.
The Voyageur Vessel
Boat Tours
Voyageurs National Park offers several guided boat tours, allowing visitors to explore the stunning waterways while learning about the park’s history and ecology:
Rainy Lake Tour (2.5 hours): Explores scenic islands and historical fur trade sites, with insights into the park’s geology and wildlife.
Kabetogama Lake Tour (2.5 hours): Showcases the pristine beauty of Kabetogama Lake, featuring wildlife sightings and historical narratives.
Ash River Tour (1.5 hours): A shorter, relaxed tour through the Ash River area, ideal for those with limited time.
Voyageur Tour (4 hours, seasonal): A comprehensive tour covering Rainy Lake and surrounding areas, emphasizing the history of the voyageurs.
These tours are led by park rangers or professional guides, providing educational commentary on the park’s ecosystems, cultural history, and wildlife. Since availability is seasonal and weather-dependent, it’s best to check the National Park Service website for current schedules and pricing.
Activities in Voyageurs National Park
Voyageurs National Park offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors:
1. Boating and Paddling
With over 200 miles of waterways, the park is perfect for boating, kayaking, and canoeing. Rentals are available for those who don’t have their own equipment.
2. Fishing
Anglers can fish for walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass, and lake trout. Be sure to check local fishing regulations before casting your line.
3. Hiking
Several hiking trails offer scenic views and wildlife encounters:
Oberholtzer Trail (1.5 miles): Overlooks Rainy Lake and highlights the park’s history.
Kabetogama Peninsula Trail (3.5 miles): A forested hike with great views of Kabetogama Lake.
Ash River Trail (2 miles): A scenic trail ideal for spotting wildlife.
4. Wildlife Watching
Common sightings include bald eagles, loons, black bears, and beavers. Early morning and dusk are the best times for wildlife viewing.
5. Camping
Voyageurs offers developed and backcountry campsites, many accessible only by boat. Reservations are recommended during peak season.
6. Scenic Drives
For those who prefer to explore by car, the Rainy Lake Scenic Drive and other park roads offer breathtaking views of lakes, forests, and wildlife.
7. Historic Sites
Visit the Kettle Falls Historic Site, a key fur trading post, or explore exhibits detailing the lives of the voyageurs.
8. Winter Activities
During winter, the park transforms into a wonderland for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and snowmobiling.
9. Stargazing
As an International Dark Sky Park, Voyageurs provides stunning views of the Milky Way and, during certain times of the year, the Northern Lights.
Fees and Costs
While much of Voyageurs National Park is free to explore, some activities and services have associated fees:
1. Entrance Fees
$7 per vehicle for a 7-day pass
$3 per person for foot, bicycle, or motorcycle entry
$30 for an annual park pass
2. Boat Tours
$20–$50 per person, depending on tour length and type
3. Camping Fees
$14–$24 per night for developed campsites
$10–$20 per night for backcountry sites
4. Boat Rentals
Motorized boats: $50–$150+ per day
Canoes/kayaks: $20–$40 per day
5. Other Fees
Boat launch fees: $5–$10 per launch
Parking fees at some locations: $5
6. Fee-Free Days
On select national holidays (such as Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Veterans Day), entrance fees are waived.
Payments can be made at visitor centers, campgrounds, or online via the National Park Service website.
Dark Sky Park Status
Voyageurs National Park is designated as an International Dark Sky Park, making it a top destination for stargazing. With minimal light pollution, visitors can witness breathtaking views of the night sky, including the Milky Way, meteor showers, and even the Northern Lights.
Best Stargazing Spots
Rainy Lake area
Kabetogama Lake
Ash River
Best Times to Visit
Clear nights with minimal moonlight provide the best visibility.
Summer and fall offer the clearest skies, while winter provides opportunities to see the aurora borealis.
Whether you're an astronomy enthusiast or just love gazing at the stars, Voyageurs National Park offers one of the best opportunities to experience the beauty of the night sky.
Voyageurs National Park is a true gem of the North, offering diverse outdoor activities, rich history, and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you're boating through its pristine waters, hiking its scenic trails, or stargazing under a vast, unpolluted sky, the park provides a memorable experience for all who visit.
