Voyageurs National Park is in northern Minnesota, near the Canadian border. The park boasts over 218,000 acres of pristine lakes, forests, and waterways.

Visitors from the US typically come to Voyageurs via Minnesota Highway 53. It is a four-hour drive north of Minneapolis.
There are 4 major lakes in Voyageurs National Park: Rainy, Kabetogama, Namakan, and Sand Point. In addition, there are twenty-six smaller inland lakes. Altogether, water covers more than a third of the total park area.

The park is named after the French-Canadian voyageurs who traveled through the region during the fur trade era. The lakes were a major thoroughfare fueling this economic engine of the time.


Our Map
Cell signal isn’t always awesome on the lake. I recommend picking up a paper map. Here is the map we used.
Visiting Voyageurs National Park
This National Park has three visitor centers: Rainy Lake, Kabetogama Lake, and Ash River.

The Rainy Lake Visitor Center is the largest and is open year-round. There is an exhibit area, bookstore, and area for watching the park film.

But the best way to experience Voyageurs National Park is to get out on the water. Guests that don’t have a boat can either rent one or take a tour. The park offers several guided tours that take visitors through the park’s lakes and waterways.

In addition to its natural beauty, this national park is rich in history. The park has several historic sites, including the Kettle Falls Hotel, a historic hotel that dates back to the early 1900s. It was once a hub for the fur trade, timber industry, and transportation during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Another unique place to visit in Voyageurs is Ellsworth Rock Garden. In the 1940s, a carpenter from Chicago, Jack Ellsworth, lovingly created a showplace of more than 200 rock sculptures, many of which survive today. A boat or tour is needed to visit this area.

One of the most unique features of Voyageurs National Park is its dark skies. It is an excellent destination for stargazing. Visitors may even see the northern lights if the conditions are right.

Voyageurs National Park is also a popular destination for fishing. The park’s lakes are home to several species of fish, including walleye, northern pike, and smallmouth bass.

Besides International Falls to the west of the park, no major hotels are nearby. However, there are other lodging options.

Houseboating is very popular, and the park has dedicated camping spots for houseboats. There are also lodges and vacation rentals in the area.

A visit to Voyageurs National Park is an unforgettable experience. The park’s stunning lakes, forests, and waterways offer endless opportunities for outdoor adventures and nature exploration. Whether you’re interested in boating, hiking, fishing, or stargazing, Voyageurs National Park is an excellent destination for your next outdoor adventure.

Check out this Voyageurs trip tip: Tip & Tee: Voyageurs Visitor Center
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