Voyageurs National Park
Voyageurs National Park Overview
Voyageurs National Park is a pristine wilderness in northern Minnesota, encompassing over 200,000 acres of unspoiled natural beauty. Established in 1975, the park is named after the French-Canadian fur traders, known as voyageurs, who traversed these waters during the fur trade era.
The park is characterized by its rugged terrain: vast forests, crystal-clear lakes, and rocky shorelines. Four major lakes—Rainy Lake, Kabetogama Lake, Namakan Lake, and Sand Point Lake form the heart of Voyageurs, offering endless opportunities for water-based recreation.
Voyageurs National Park is home to diverse wildlife, including black bears, moose, wolves, bald eagles, and otters. The park’s pristine wilderness provides essential habitat for these species, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
The rich history of Voyageurs National Park dates back thousands of years, with evidence of Native American presence throughout the region. Later, French fur traders established trade routes along the park’s waterways, leaving a legacy still evident in the park’s cultural heritage sites.
Things to do in Voyageurs National Park
Let’s embark on a journey of exploration through this pristine wilderness.
Boat Tours
Location: Various boat tour operators offer guided excursions from designated docks around Voyageurs National Park, including Rainy Lake, Kabetogama Lake, and Ash River.
Highlights: Boat tours provide a unique perspective of the park’s stunning landscapes, including towering cliffs, picturesque islands, and hidden coves.
Tips: Book your boat tour in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
Hiking Trails
Voyageurs National Park is home to a variety of hiking trails that can be accessed from different trailheads. Some of the popular trailheads in the park include the Locator Lake Trail, Cruiser Lake Trail, and Blind Ash Bay Trail. These trails offer hikers the chance to explore the park’s diverse ecosystems, such as boreal forests, wetlands, and rocky outcrops.
One of the highlights of hiking in Voyageurs National Park is the opportunity to observe wildlife and wildflowers along the scenic trails. Hikers may encounter a variety of animals, including birds, deer, and maybe even a black bear or two. The park is also known for its stunning displays of wildflowers, which bloom throughout the spring and summer months.
Wildlife Watching
Visitors to Voyageurs National Park have the opportunity to observe a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat. Whether you are exploring the park’s shoreline or cruising along the water in a boat or kayak, there are plenty of opportunities to encounter animals such as bald eagles, ospreys, loons, beavers, otters, and white-tailed deer.
One of the best ways to enhance your wildlife viewing experience is by bringing binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens. This will allow you to get up close and personal views of the animals without disturbing them in their environment. Capturing these moments on camera can also serve as a lasting memory of your time spent in the park.
Fishing
Voyageurs National Park offers numerous opportunities for both novice and skilled fishermen. The park is home to 30 named lakes, including four large lakes and 26 smaller interior lakes, teeming with a variety of fish species. A total of 54 different types of fish have been identified in the aquatic habitats of the park, with popular species such as Walleye, Sauger, Northern Pike, Smallmouth Bass, Yellow Perch, and Black Crappie.
Stargazing
In Voyageurs National Park, there are many places with expansive views of the dark sky, offering beautiful sights. However, there are two specific areas within the park that are designated for stargazing. One is the Meadwood Road Day Use Area along Ash River Visitor Center Road, and the other is the upper parking lot at the Rainy Lake Visitor Center.
Additionally, various spots like lakeshores, trail clearings, backcountry areas, and campsite docks in the park provide unobstructed views of the stars, especially when there is minimal artificial light nearby.
The best time to observe the Milky Way, a spiral galaxy that includes our own solar system, is during summer nights. This is because during summer, the Northern hemisphere is tilted towards the center of the Milky Way, making it more visible and dense. Most of what we see with our naked eyes from Earth is part of the Milky Way galaxy, except for two exceptions, the Triangulum Galaxy and the Andromeda Galaxy.
Places to stay in Voyageurs National Park
Let’s explore the inviting retreats that await you amidst this pristine wilderness. From lakeside resorts to rustic campgrounds, there’s a perfect sanctuary for every traveler seeking to immerse themselves in the park’s natural beauty.
Hotel and Resort
Hilltop Lodge And Cabins
Hilltop Lodge provides motel rooms and separate cabins. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a picnic area, barbecue facilities, fire pit, and bicycle rentals. Complimentary continental breakfast and WiFi are available. Many rooms are equipped with a microwave and fridge. The property was recently acquired in late 2019 and underwent renovations in 2020.
- Address: 2002 2nd Ave, International Falls, MN 56649-3928
- Price Range: From $127/night depending on the season and demand
Days Inn by Wyndham International Falls (2-star)
Days Inn by Wyndham International Falls is an affordable hotel that provides a taste of International Falls. The hotel rooms come with air conditioning and convenient internet access.
During your stay at Days Inn by Wyndham International Falls, guests can take advantage of the 24-hour front desk services. The hotel also features a fitness center and complimentary breakfast to enhance your experience in International Falls. Additionally, guests can enjoy the convenience of free parking.
- Address: 2331 Highway 53, International Falls, MN 56649-4012
- Price Range: From $115/night depending on the season and demand
Americas Best Value Inn & Suites International Falls
Americas Best Value Inn Suites International Falls welcomes pets and is a great place for your vacation. Enjoy complimentary coffee in the lobby 24/7 to kickstart your day. Take advantage of amenities like guest laundry, vending machines, and outdoor plugins. Stay connected with free high-speed Wi-Fi in common areas and guest rooms. All rooms are smoke-free, and children under 10 stay for free.
- Address: 2326 Highway 53, International Falls, MN 56649-4012
- Price Range: From $67 – $90/night depending on the season and demand
Camping
Voyageurs National Park has several popular camping areas for visitors seeking to immerse themselves in the wilderness. Here are some notable camping locations and considerations when camping in the park:
Kabetogama Lake Campground: Campgrounds at Kabetogama Lake offer serene surroundings and proximity to water activities such as fishing and boating. Note: Advance campground reservations may be necessary, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Ash River Campground: With campsites along the Ash River, visitors can enjoy scenic views and convenient access to boating or hiking. Note: Ensure proper waste disposal and maintain a clean environment.
Dining
In Voyageurs National Park, visitors can indulge in a delightful array of local specialties that capture the essence of the region’s culinary heritage. Here are three standout dishes that exemplify the unique flavors of Voyageurs National Park:
Walleye Shore Lunch: Renowned as one of the quintessential Northwoods dining experiences, a Walleye Shore Lunch is a must-try for any visitor to Voyageurs National Park. Freshly caught walleye, a prized freshwater fish abundant in the park’s pristine waters, is expertly prepared over an open flame, often accompanied by traditional sides such as wild rice pilaf, baked beans, and cornbread. Enjoyed amidst the breathtaking beauty of the park’s wilderness, this hearty meal offers a taste of authentic outdoor dining.
Wild Rice Hotdish: Wild rice, a staple ingredient in Native American cuisine and a symbol of Minnesota’s culinary heritage takes center stage in this comforting and hearty dish. Wild Rice Hotdish combines tender wild rice, savory meat such as chicken or venison, aromatic vegetables, and creamy sauce, all baked to golden perfection. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, this classic comfort food embodies the rustic charm of Voyageurs National Park’s culinary traditions.
Blueberry Pie: No visit to Voyageurs National Park would be complete without indulging in a slice of freshly baked Blueberry Pie, bursting with the sweet and tangy flavors of locally harvested blueberries. Made from scratch with a flaky pastry crust and generous layers of juicy blueberries, this beloved dessert is an authentic taste of summer in the Northwoods. Whether enjoyed warm with a dollop of whipped cream or savored cold under the starlit sky, Blueberry Pie offers a deliciously nostalgic finale to any meal in Voyageurs National Park.
The Rocky Ledge
This establishment offers a variety of food and drink options, providing customers with great deals and discounts. In addition to enjoying delicious food and drinks, patrons can also participate in karaoke sessions, adding an element of fun and entertainment to their visit. Furthermore, the venue is equipped with screens where guests can watch their favorite sports games, making it a great spot for sports enthusiasts to gather and enjoy the game day experience together.
- Address: 10064 Gappa Rd, Kabetogama, MN 56669-8014
Open time:
- Mon: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Tue: 4:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Thu: 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Fri: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Prices range: $10 – $20
Kettle Falls Hotel & Restaurant
The on-site restaurant serves a variety of hearty meals, with a focus on classic American cuisine. Guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a relaxed, informal setting. The restaurant is known for its friendly service and delicious home-cooked meals, which can be enjoyed while taking in the scenic views of the lake.
- Address: 12977 Chippewa Trl, Kabetogama, MN 56669-8066
- Open time: 12:00 AM – 11:59 PM
Planning your trip to Voyageurs National Park
Visiting Time
Spring (March to May):
Best Time to Visit: Late spring, from April to May, offers milder temperatures and fewer crowds.
Highlights:
Witness the park’s awakening as trees bud and wildflowers bloom along hiking trails.
Enjoy excellent fishing opportunities as fish become more active with the warming water temperatures.
Experience seeing migratory birds returning to nests in the park’s wetlands and forests.
Summer (June to August):
Best Time to Visit: Midsummer, from June to August, is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures and longer daylight hours.
Highlights:
Explore the park’s extensive network of waterways through boating, kayaking, and canoeing.
Embark on scenic hikes along forested trails, with abundant wildlife sightings and breathtaking vistas.
Take advantage of the summer festivals and ranger-led programs, offering educational opportunities and entertainment for visitors of all ages.
Fall (September to November):
Best Time to Visit: Early fall, from September to October, offers pleasant weather and stunning fall foliage.
Highlights:
Witness the transformation of the park’s landscape as leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow.
Enjoy peaceful hikes amidst the autumnal splendor, with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Experience excellent fishing conditions as fish feed voraciously before winter sets in, making it an ideal time for anglers.
Winter (December to February):
Best Time to Visit: Midwinter, from January to February, offers the chance to experience the park’s serene beauty in a winter wonderland.
Highlights:
Explore the park’s snow-covered trails through cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.
Witness the enchanting phenomenon of frozen waterfalls and icy landscapes along the park’s frozen lakes and rivers.
Participate in winter wildlife viewing opportunities, with chances to spot wolves, otters, and other cold-weather animals.
Transportation
In Voyageurs National Park, several transportation options are available for visitors to explore this wilderness area. Below are the standard modes of transportation and estimated transportation costs within the park:
Boat / Canoe / Kayak
Cost: Depending on the type of rental and duration, boat, canoe, or kayak rentals can range from $20 to $60 or more per hour or day.
Boats, canoes, and kayaks are popular choices for exploring the park’s network of lakes and waterways. Several rental services are available near the main boat docks.
Car
Cost: The park entrance fee is $30 per vehicle, including parking at various tourist sites.
Using a car is convenient for traveling between tourist attractions and campground areas within the park. The roads are well-maintained and easily navigable.
Snowmobiles (During Winter)
Cost: Snowmobile rental fees typically range from $100 to $200 per day, depending on the type of vehicle and rental duration.
During winter, snowmobiles are a popular mode of transportation for exploring the park via groomed snow trails. Snowmobile rental services are often available in major tourist areas.
Voyageurs National Park Map
Conclusion
Voyageurs National Park offers an unparalleled opportunity to reconnect with nature and embark on an unforgettable adventure. Whether seeking outdoor thrills or tranquil moments of reflection, this hidden gem promises an experience.
