Voyageurs National Park Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Nestled in the heart of the Minnesota region, Voyageurs National Park is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. This sprawling national park spans over 218,000 acres, encompassing a stunning landscape of lakes, forests, and islands. With its abundance of natural beauty and recreational activities, Voyageurs National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
One of the park's main attractions is its interconnected waterways, which consist of four major lakes: Rainy Lake, Kabetogama Lake, Namakan Lake, and Sand Point Lake. These pristine lakes are intertwined with countless smaller lakes and rivers, creating a vast network of water that is perfect for boating, canoeing, and fishing. Visitors can rent a kayak or canoe and embark on an unforgettable journey through the park's water trails, immersing themselves in the serenity of the surrounding wilderness.
For those seeking a more laid-back experience, Voyageurs National Park offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation and solitude. The park's numerous campgrounds and picnic areas provide a tranquil setting for enjoying a leisurely lunch or spending a night under the stars. As darkness falls, the sky comes alive with a dazzling display of stars, making it a prime spot for stargazing and astrophotography.
Wildlife enthusiasts will also be delighted by the diverse range of species that call Voyageurs National Park home. The park is known for its thriving populations of bald eagles, loons, otters, and beavers. Lucky visitors may even catch a glimpse of a majestic moose or a curious black bear roaming in their natural habitat.
Aside from its natural wonders, Voyageurs National Park also boasts a rich history. The park was once a vital transportation route for fur traders and explorers, and remnants of this era can still be found throughout the park. Visitors can take a step back in time by exploring the park's historic sites, such as the Kettle Falls Hotel, which dates back to the early 1900s.
Voyageurs National Park Attractions - What to See and Explore
Voyageurs National Park offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Kabetogama Lake, Beast Lake, Kettle Falls Historic District, Kabetogama Ranger Station District. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Voyageurs National Park – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Voyageurs National Park, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Homestead Mills (Cook), Koochiching County Courthouse (International Falls), Cook Public Library (Cook).
Best Time To Visit Voyageurs National Park
Learn when is the best time to travel to Voyageurs National Park weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the Park
Wildlife
AnimalsSee what popular animal species you can meet in this location.
Long-tailed duck
The long-tailed duck, once known in North America as the oldsquaw, is a fascinating medium-sized sea duck and the sole surviving member of the Clangula genus. Initially classified under Harelda, it later became the type species of its own genus.
Birds
Red fox
The red fox, the largest member of the true fox family, inhabits the Northern Hemisphere, including regions in North America, Europe, Asia, and parts of Africa. This versatile animal thrives in a variety of environments and maintains a diverse diet.
Mammals
Horned grebe
The horned grebe, also known as the Slavonian grebe, is a small waterbird belonging to the Podicipedidae family. It has two subspecies: P. a. auritus, found in the Palearctic region, and P. a. cornutus, which resides in North America.
Birds
Rusty blackbird
The rusty blackbird is a medium-sized bird, resembling grackles, that thrives in wet, forested environments. They breed in northern Canada and migrate to the United States for the winter. Unfortunately, their populations have plummeted significantly in recent years...
Birds
Coyote
The coyote, a native North American canine, is smaller than the gray wolf and is classified as "least concern" by the IUCN due to its widespread distribution and adaptability. There are 19 recognized subspecies of coyotes.
Mammals
Minnesota