Voyageurs National Park
Voyageurs National Park, located in northern Minnesota near the Canadian border, is a pristine wilderness renowned for its interconnected waterways, lush forests, and abundant wildlife. Spanning over 218,000 acres, the park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like boating, fishing, kayaking, and hiking. With its many lakes and islands, including the massive Rainy, Kabetogama, and Namakan Lakes, the park is best explored by water. Voyageurs is also a dark sky park, making it an ideal destination for stargazing and witnessing the northern lights. Rich in history, the park is named after the French-Canadian voyageurs who traversed these waters during the fur trade era, leaving behind a legacy that blends culture and nature.
Park Information Quick Facts
Location: Minnesota
Park Size: 218,000 Acres
Time Needed: 1-3 days
Best Season: Summer
Must Do: Watch for the Northern Lights
Pro Tips: Bring a detailed waterproof map of the lakes and learn how to navigate by landmarks.
Visitor Centers
Voyageurs National Park features four visitor centers, each offering unique opportunities to enhance your experience. The Rainy Lake Visitor Center, open year-round, serves as a hub for exploring the northern section of the park. It offers exhibits on the region’s natural and cultural history, a small theater for educational films, and access to hiking trails like the Oberholtzer Trail. In winter, the center becomes a gateway to snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and even ice road driving. The Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center, open seasonally, is a great starting point for boaters and anglers, with a dock for watercraft and a helpful staff ready to provide maps and advice. This center also hosts ranger-led programs to introduce visitors to the park’s unique ecosystem.
On the park’s western side, the Ash River Visitor Center offers a more intimate experience, with rustic charm and access to scenic trails like the Sullivan Bay Trail. It’s a favorite for wildlife enthusiasts and those looking to connect with nature on foot. Lastly, the Crane Lake Ranger Station serves as a seasonal visitor hub, ideal for those entering from the southern boundary of the park. While smaller than the other centers, it’s a convenient stop for information and orientation. Each visitor center is an excellent resource for trip planning, whether you’re looking to learn about the park’s history, rent equipment, or get advice on the best ways to explore Voyageurs’ expansive waters and wilderness.
Plan Your Voyageurs Adventure Today!
Planning a trip to Voyageurs National Park requires some preparation to make the most of its unique, water-based landscape. Since much of the park is accessible only by boat, consider renting or bringing a watercraft to explore its interconnected lakes and islands. Be sure to reserve campsites in advance, as most are boat-in only and can fill up quickly during peak seasons. Check the park’s official website for up-to-date information on visitor center hours, seasonal accessibility, and ranger-led programs. Pack appropriately for the weather, which can vary widely, and include waterproof gear, sturdy shoes, and layers. If you’re not familiar with the area, investing in a detailed map or attending an orientation at one of the visitor centers is highly recommended. Whether you’re planning to fish, hike, paddle, or simply relax by the water, Voyageurs offers endless opportunities for adventure and solitude.
Getting There
How to Travel to Voyageurs National Park
Getting to Voyageurs National Park requires some planning, as it is located in a remote region of northern Minnesota near the U.S.-Canada border. The closest major airport is in Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP), about a 5-6 hour drive from the park. From there, visitors typically drive to one of the nearby gateway towns, such as International Falls, Kabetogama, or Crane Lake, which serve as access points to the park. Smaller regional airports, such as Falls International Airport (INL) in International Falls, offer closer options for those arriving by air. Renting a car is essential, as there is no public transportation directly to or within the park.
Once you arrive at one of the gateway towns, the park’s visitor centers—Rainy Lake, Kabetogama Lake, Ash River, or Crane Lake—serve as entry points. These centers provide maps, trip planning assistance, and watercraft rental options for exploring the park. Because Voyageurs is a water-based park, reaching most areas of the park requires access to a boat, kayak, or canoe. If you’re traveling without your own watercraft, many local outfitters offer rentals, shuttle services, and guided tours to help you navigate the vast network of lakes and islands. Each visitor center has nearby boat launches for easy access to the waterways.
Once you’ve reached the park, driving is the best way to get around, as the park’s two scenic loops—the South Unit’s Scenic Loop Drive and the North Unit’s Scenic Drive—offer breathtaking views of the Badlands. Both routes have numerous pullouts and trailheads, allowing you to explore at your own pace. If you’re visiting during winter or early spring, check for road closures or weather-related restrictions. Whether you fly or drive, the journey to Theodore Roosevelt National Park is part of the adventure, giving you a chance to experience the vast and rugged beauty of the northern plains before even setting foot in the park.
Camping
Camping at Voyageurs National Park offers a truly unique experience, with most campsites accessible only by watercraft. The park features over 270 designated campsites spread across its lakes and islands, providing privacy and immersion in nature. Campsites range from basic tent sites to group and day-use sites, all equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and a bear-proof food locker. To secure a spot, reservations are required and can be made through recreation.gov. Whether you’re paddling to a secluded island site or boating to a larger group site, the serene surroundings make for an unforgettable camping experience. Be sure to bring all necessary supplies, as services within the park are limited, and always follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the pristine environment.
Frontcountry Campsites
- Description: These are the most accessible campsites, located on islands or shorelines, reachable only by watercraft.
- Total Sites: 147
- Categories:
- Small: Accommodates up to 9 campers.
- Large: Accommodates up to 18 campers.
- Group Sites: Accommodates 14-30 campers.
- Accessible Sites: Specifically designed for visitors with disabilities.
- Amenities:
- Tent pads
- Fire rings
- Picnic tables
- Vault toilets
- Bear-proof food lockers
Backcountry Campsites
- Description: Located deep in the park, these sites require boating to a trailhead followed by a hike to the campsite.
- Total Sites: 14
- Features:
- Remote and secluded locations
- Primitive camping with minimal amenities
- Best for hikers and those seeking solitude
Primitive Campsites
- Description: Basic campsites located along hiking trails, not requiring boat access.
- Sites:
- Red Pine and Blueberry Ridge (along the Kab-Ash Trail)
- Features:
- Fire rings
- Cleared tent areas
- No additional facilities
Houseboat Sites
- Description: These designated sites are for visitors using houseboats to explore the park’s lakes.
- Features:
- Specific locations for houseboat mooring
- A maximum of two houseboats per site
- Located in scenic, protected areas
Day Use and Visitor Destination Sites
- Description: These sites are designed for daytime activities such as picnicking and swimming.
- Sites:
- Day Use: 27 sites with picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets.
- Visitor Destination Sites: 7 sites featuring short trails, wayside exhibits, picnic areas, and comfort stations.
Popular Hiking Trails
Oberholtzer Trail
- Length: Approximately 1.7 miles round trip
- Location: Near the Rainy Lake Visitor Center
- Description: This easy trail meanders through wetlands and forests, offering interpretive signs about the area’s natural and cultural history.
- Accessibility: Suitable for most skill levels and family-friendly.
Beaver Pond Overlook Trail
- Length: Approximately 1 mile round trip
- Location: Near the Ash River Visitor Center
- Description: A short hike leading to an overlook with views of a beaver pond, offering opportunities to observe wildlife and beaver activity.
- Accessibility: Suitable for most visitors; trail includes some elevation gain.
Kab-Ash Trail
- Length: Approximately 27 miles total
- Location: Connects the Kabetogama and Ash River areas
- Description: A network of interconnected trails suitable for extended hikes or backpacking, passing through remote forests and offering solitude.
- Note: Trail maintenance may be limited; check current conditions before hiking.
Sullivan Bay Trail
- Length: Approximately 1.5 miles round trip
- Location: Near the Ash River area
- Description: A gentle trail through mixed forests leading to scenic views of Sullivan Bay.
- Accessibility: Suitable for most skill levels.
Blind Ash Bay Trail
- Length: About 2.5 miles round trip
- Location: Accessible from the Kabetogama Lake area
- Description: A moderately challenging loop that winds through forests and along rocky ridges, providing picturesque views of Ash River and Kabetogama Lake.
- Note: Some sections may be uneven; sturdy footwear is recommended.
Echo Bay Trail
- Length: Around 2.5 miles round trip
- Location: Near the Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center
- Description: This trail traverses diverse habitats, including wetlands and forests, making it ideal for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate; trail conditions can vary seasonally.
Locator Lake Trail
- Length: About 2 miles one way
- Location: Accessible by boat from Kabetogama Lake
- Description: This trail leads to Locator Lake, where backcountry campsites and boat rentals are available.
- Access: Requires boat transportation to the trailhead.
Hiking Trails in Voyageurs National Park
Hiking at Voyageurs National Park offers a chance to explore the rugged beauty of Minnesota’s northern wilderness on foot. While the park is primarily known for its vast waterways, it also features several scenic trails that take you through dense forests, rocky ridges, wetlands, and serene lakeshores. Trails like the Oberholtzer Trail and Beaver Pond Overlook Trail are perfect for short, leisurely walks with interpretive signs along the way, offering insights into the park’s natural and cultural history. These trails are easily accessible from the visitor centers, making them ideal for families or those looking for a quick outdoor experience.
For those seeking a more challenging adventure, the park’s longer trails, such as the 27-mile Kab-Ash Trail, provide opportunities for extended hikes or backpacking. This trail network connects the Kabetogama and Ash River areas, taking hikers through remote, pristine landscapes where wildlife like moose, black bears, and bald eagles can often be spotted. The Blind Ash Bay Trail is another popular choice for moderately experienced hikers, with its scenic loops offering stunning views of Ash River and the surrounding forests. These trails reward visitors with solitude and breathtaking vistas, making the effort well worth it.
Many of the trails in Voyageurs National Park are uniquely accessible only by boat, such as the Locator Lake Trail, which begins at a remote trailhead reachable by watercraft. This adds an extra layer of adventure to the hiking experience, blending boating with on-foot exploration. Before setting out, visitors should prepare adequately by checking trail conditions, wearing sturdy footwear, and bringing maps, water, and bug repellent. With its blend of accessible and remote trails, Voyageurs National Park provides a hiking experience for every skill level, offering unforgettable encounters with the natural beauty of this water-based wilderness.
Wildlife at the Park
Voyageurs National Park is a haven for wildlife, offering a diverse array of species that thrive in its forests, wetlands, and lakes. One of the park’s most iconic animals is the moose, which can often be spotted wading through shallow waters or foraging in the dense forests. These large mammals are a highlight for many visitors, especially in the early morning or late evening when they are most active. In addition to moose, the park is home to other large mammals like black bears and white-tailed deer. With a bit of luck and patience, visitors may also catch sight of wolves, although they are more elusive and often heard rather than seen.
For those venturing into the more remote areas of Voyageurs, there is a good chance of encountering a wide variety of smaller wildlife as well. The park is home to beavers, otters, and muskrats, all of which play a crucial role in the local ecosystem by shaping the landscape. Foxes, raccoons, and squirrels are common sights along the trails, while chipmunks and mice scurry across the forest floor. Reptiles like painted turtles and snakes can also be found in the warmer months, particularly around the lakes. Whether you’re kayaking across the water or hiking the trails, the diverse wildlife in Voyageurs National Park offers an ever-changing experience for nature lovers.
The park’s waterways provide an ideal habitat for numerous species of birds, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. The bald eagle, a symbol of American wildlife, is frequently seen soaring above the lakes or perched in tall trees, hunting for fish. Other notable bird species include loons, whose eerie calls echo across the water, and herons and ospreys that can be spotted near the shoreline. Migratory birds also pass through the park, especially in spring and fall, making it a key stop for birdwatching enthusiasts. With over 200 species of birds documented in the park, there’s always something to observe.
Gear We Used
Must-Do Activities
Wildlife Watching
Voyageurs is home to an impressive variety of wildlife, and observing these creatures in their natural habitat is one of the highlights of visiting the park. Spend time hiking the trails or kayaking along the shores to spot moose, bald eagles, beavers, and more. Early morning or dusk is the best time to catch a glimpse of larger animals like moose and deer. Birdwatchers will also enjoy spotting numerous species, from loons to ospreys, in this birding hotspot.
Boat Tour or Canoe/Kayak Rental
Voyageurs National Park is a water-based park, and exploring its interconnected lakes and islands by boat is a must-do activity. Whether you rent a canoe, kayak, or take a guided boat tour, being on the water allows you to experience the park from a unique perspective. Paddle through scenic waterways, access remote campsites, or spot wildlife along the shores. A boat tour with a park ranger can also provide educational insights into the park’s history and ecology.
Camping at a Boat-In Campsite
For a truly immersive experience, camp at one of the park’s boat-in campsites. Accessible only by watercraft, these sites offer a peaceful and secluded setting, surrounded by nature. Spend the night under the stars, with only the sounds of the wilderness around you. It’s a perfect way to disconnect from the world and enjoy the park’s tranquility, with the added bonus of being able to explore different lakes and islands by boat.
Voyageurs National Park History
The history of Voyageurs National Park is deeply intertwined with the stories of Native American tribes, fur traders, and European settlers. The park is named after the French-Canadian fur traders, known as “voyageurs,” who traveled the waterways of the upper Midwest in the 18th and 19th centuries. These traders used canoes to transport goods, such as furs, to trading posts, and played a vital role in the fur trade that connected the Great Lakes and the Canadian wilderness to the rest of North America. The waterways of Voyageurs National Park served as a major trade route for these voyageurs, who were skilled navigators of the vast network of lakes and rivers. The park’s waterways still reflect their legacy, with many of the lakes and islands bearing names derived from their voyageurs’ activities.
Before the arrival of European settlers, the area now known as Voyageurs National Park was inhabited by several Native American groups, including the Ojibwe (Chippewa) and Dakota tribes. These communities relied on the region’s abundant natural resources, using the lakes for fishing, hunting, and transportation. The Ojibwe, in particular, developed a rich cultural connection to the land, with traditions that continue to this day. Evidence of their presence can still be found in the form of ancient burial sites and petroglyphs along the park’s shores, telling stories of their long-standing connection to this land.
In the 20th century, as the fur trade waned, the region’s economy shifted toward timber, mining, and agriculture. However, by the mid-1900s, the area began to attract visitors for its natural beauty, and conservation efforts were initiated to protect the land. In 1975, Voyageurs National Park was officially established, preserving the lakes, forests, and historical sites for future generations. Today, the park not only serves as a recreational destination but also as a living monument to the voyageurs, Native American cultures, and the rich natural history that has shaped the area. Through education and stewardship, the history of Voyageurs continues to be celebrated and preserved for all who visit.