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About

Voyageurs National Park is located in the northernmost central part of Minnesota along the border of Canada.  The park covers an area of 340.9 square miles (883 sq km).

The protected area is not far from the Isle Royale National Park in the far northeastern Lake Superior waterways of Michigan. It also rests along the border with Ontario, Canada, and one of the state’s provincial parks.

The park is renowned for the abundance and varying waterways scattered across the boundaries of the protected area. Where many national parks attract hikers and climbers, Voyageurs National Park attracts boaters, canoeists, kayakers, and those who love to fish.  Much of the inward part of the park may only be experienced or accessed by some type of watercraft.

The winter months do give way to cross-country skiing, snowmobile excursions, and trekking with snowshoes. Rainy Lake visitor center is the only one open year-round while the other two are open over the summer months running from late May through the middle of September.

Water is king at Voyageurs with the park boundaries enclosing either all or much of the four major lakes in the area. The four lakes include:

  • Rainy Lake
  • Kabetogama Lake
  • Namakan Lake
  • Sand Point Lake

The Great Lakes Spruce, Great Lakes Fir, Great Lakes Pine, and Northern Conifer woodlands create exquisite habitats for a variety of wildlife.  The larger animals of the park include moose, white-tailed deer, black bear, and timber wolf. Some of the smaller creatures include beaver, fox, muskrat, river otter, snowshoe hare, and weasel.

Bald eagle accounts for the most majestic of the bird sightings, but there are several birds that nest or migrate through the area.

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Voyageurs National Park
Voyageurs National Park
Voyageurs National Park
Voyageurs National Park
Voyageurs National Park
Voyageurs National Park
Voyageurs National Park
Voyageurs National Park

Things to See

The waterways of Voyageurs are the primary attraction of the national park.  The four large lakes referenced above are accompanied by several other smaller lakes of which many are accessible through hiking trails adding to the watery adventure. 

Rainy Lake

Rainy Lake is probably the leading attraction of the park.  It stretches across 60 miles (97 km) long with an area of 355.60 square miles (921.1 sq km) with a maximum depth of 161 feet (49 m).

The shoreline around the lake measures 929 miles (1,495 km) creating one massive body of water. It is the largest body of water and the pinnacle attraction of the park.

Kabetogama Lake

Kabetogama Lake is the second largest lake based on area. The shoreline traverses 78 miles (126 km) around the lake.  The lake stretches across 15 miles (24 km) long with an area of 40.23 square miles (104.2 sq km) with a maximum depth of 80 feet (24 m).

Namakan Lake

Namakan Lake is the third largest lake based on area. The shoreline travels 146 miles (235 km) around the lake.  The lake stretches across 16 miles (26 km) long with an area of 39.26 square miles (101.7 sq km) with a maximum depth of 150 feet (46 m).

Sand Point Lake

Sand Point Lake is the smallest lake in the four large lakes. The shoreline measures 92 miles (148 km) around the lake.  The lake stretches across 8 miles (13 km) long with an area of 8.10 square miles (21 sq km) with a maximum depth of 184 feet (56 m). Although it is the smallest in area, it is the second deepest of the four lakes.

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Voyageurs National Park, a mosaic of waterways and forests in Minnesota, offers a refuge for a variety of wildlife, showcasing the rich biodiversity of this unique ecosystem where visitors can connect with nature and observe the animals that thrive in its lakes and forests.

Bald Eagle Majestic Bald Eagles are commonly sighted soaring above the water or perched in tall trees, symbolizing the wild beauty of Voyageurs National Park.

Moose The elusive Moose, the largest member of the deer family, is often seen browsing in the park’s marshes and forests, a thrilling sight for visitors.

Gray Wolf The Gray Wolf, a symbol of the wilderness, roams the park’s vast forests, part of the complex predator-prey dynamics that maintain ecological balance.

Common Loon The haunting call of the Common Loon, Minnesota’s state bird, resonates across the park’s lakes, embodying the spirit of the Northwoods.

Beaver Engineers of the aquatic world, Beavers are frequently seen building dams and lodges, shaping the park’s waterways and creating habitats for other species.

American Black Bear The American Black Bear, adaptable and omnivorous, forages through the park’s forests, occasionally seen by visitors on quiet mornings or evenings.

River Otter Playful River Otters glide through the park’s waterways, often spotted by kayakers and boaters, their antics a joy to watch.

White-tailed Deer Graceful White-tailed Deer roam the park, especially visible at dawn and dusk in meadows and along roadways, a common encounter for hikers.

Red Fox The Red Fox, with its distinctive orange fur and bushy tail, can occasionally be seen darting across meadows or along forest edges, a sight that delights visitors.

Great Blue Heron Standing silently in shallows, the Great Blue Heron fishes in the park’s lakes and rivers, its presence a testament to the health of aquatic ecosystems.

Voyageurs National Park’s wildlife, from the iconic Bald Eagle to the industrious Beaver, offers visitors a window into the interconnected life of the Northern wilderness, making it a premier destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Things To Do

Engaging Voyageurs National Park

Boating

Boating is a quintessential way to explore the interconnected waterways of Voyageurs National Park. With vast lakes and hidden coves, renting a canoe, kayak, or motorboat offers an intimate encounter with the park’s aquatic environment. Navigate through the pristine waters, discover remote islands, and enjoy fishing, swimming, or simply the tranquility of the wilderness that surrounds you.

Hiking

Hiking in Voyageurs National Park unveils a different aspect of its beauty. The park features trails for all levels, from short walks to more strenuous hikes. Trek through the lush forests, walk alongside picturesque lakes, and climb to scenic overlooks that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Keep an eye out for wildlife and the diverse plant life that calls this park home.

Fishing

Fishing is a popular activity in Voyageurs National Park, offering abundant opportunities to catch walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass, and other species. The park’s clean, clear waters are home to a rich aquatic ecosystem. Whether you’re an experienced angler or trying your hand at fishing for the first time, the experience of casting a line in these serene waters, surrounded by stunning natural beauty, is unparalleled.

Boating

Boating is a quintessential way to explore the interconnected waterways of Voyageurs National Park. With vast lakes and hidden coves, renting a canoe, kayak, or motorboat offers an intimate encounter with the park’s aquatic environment. Navigate through the pristine waters, discover remote islands, and enjoy fishing, swimming, or simply the tranquility of the wilderness that surrounds you.

Hiking

Hiking in Voyageurs National Park unveils a different aspect of its beauty. The park features trails for all levels, from short walks to more strenuous hikes. Trek through the lush forests, walk alongside picturesque lakes, and climb to scenic overlooks that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Keep an eye out for wildlife and the diverse plant life that calls this park home.

Fishing

Fishing is a popular activity in Voyageurs National Park, offering abundant opportunities to catch walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass, and other species. The park’s clean, clear waters are home to a rich aquatic ecosystem. Whether you’re an experienced angler or trying your hand at fishing for the first time, the experience of casting a line in these serene waters, surrounded by stunning natural beauty, is unparalleled.

Voyageurs National Park Trails

Although water is king, there are over 50 miles (80 km) of hiking trails that meander across the peninsula along with some on the islands. The majority of trails are through trees and along the shorelines which means that most are easy to moderate.

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Kabetogama Lake Overlook Trail

This is a short easy 0.4-mile (0.64 m) out and back hike through the forests featuring a lookout over the lake.

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Beaver Pond Overlook Trail

This is another short easy-rated trail that only covers a distance of 0.3 miles (0.48 km).  The trail through woods ends a view out of Beaver Pond with chances to see wildlife and wildflowers.

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Oberholtzer Trail

This is a 1.7-mile (2.73 km) loop trail that is rated easy and accessible for most people.  The loop trail meanders through the forest area and allows visitors to enjoy the outdoors.

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Kab-Ash Trail

This is an easy trail that really provides most people with a chance to hike and experience different aspects of the park.  The trail is longer covering a distance of 15.2 miles (24.46 km) while also having an elevation gain of 1,335 feet.  The elevation gain is less significant since it is over such a long distance.  There are chances to see wildlife and wildflowers all while appreciating the views of the area.

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Cruiser Lake – Anderson Bay Trail

This is a moderate-rated loop trail covering a distance of 8.7 miles (14.00 km) as it meanders from Cruiser Lake through woods past Brown Lake and out to Anderson Bay.  There are chances to see wildlife, dense forests, and different views of lakes and waterways.  Part of the trail is a narrow boardwalk.  There is an elevation gain of 738 feet (224.9 m).

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Kabetogama Lake Overlook Trail

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: 1.7 miles round trip with minimal elevation gain

Description: This trail offers a gentle hike suitable for all skill levels and provides stunning views of Kabetogama Lake and the surrounding forest. It’s an excellent choice for birdwatching and wildlife spotting, including deer and eagles. The trail is well-maintained, making it accessible for families and a perfect way to experience the natural beauty of Voyageurs National Park.

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Blind Ash Bay Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 2.5 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 150 feet (46 meters)

Description: Starting near the Ash River Visitor Center, this trail winds through a diverse forest landscape before culminating in breathtaking views of Blind Ash Bay. It’s a moderately challenging hike with some elevation changes, offering opportunities to see local flora and fauna. The trail’s endpoint provides a serene spot to relax and enjoy the peaceful waters of the bay.

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Cruiser Lake Trail

Rating: Strenuous

Distance and Elevation Gain: Up to 9.4 miles one way (18.8 miles round trip) with an elevation gain of about 450 feet (137 meters)

Description: For those seeking a more challenging adventure, the Cruiser Lake Trail offers an extended hike through remote areas of the park, passing several lakes and offering potential wildlife encounters, including moose. The trail’s length and remote nature make it a rewarding experience for experienced hikers, showcasing the park’s wilderness.

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Ethnobotanic Garden Trail

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: 0.25 miles loop with minimal elevation gain

Description: Located at the Rainy Lake Visitor Center, this short, easy loop provides an educational experience about the local plants and their traditional uses by the indigenous people and early settlers. The trail is accessible and offers a quick, informative outdoor activity suitable for all ages.

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Oberholtzer Trail

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: 1.5 miles loop with minimal elevation gain

Description: This easy loop trail offers a peaceful walk through a mix of forested areas and along the shoreline of Rainy Lake. It’s named after Ernest Oberholtzer, a key figure in the establishment of Voyageurs National Park. The trail provides beautiful views of the lake and is an excellent choice for a leisurely hike.

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Kabetogama Lake Overlook Trail

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: 1.7 miles round trip with minimal elevation gain

Description: This trail offers a gentle hike suitable for all skill levels and provides stunning views of Kabetogama Lake and the surrounding forest. It’s an excellent choice for birdwatching and wildlife spotting, including deer and eagles. The trail is well-maintained, making it accessible for families and a perfect way to experience the natural beauty of Voyageurs National Park.

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Blind Ash Bay Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 2.5 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 150 feet (46 meters)

Description: Starting near the Ash River Visitor Center, this trail winds through a diverse forest landscape before culminating in breathtaking views of Blind Ash Bay. It’s a moderately challenging hike with some elevation changes, offering opportunities to see local flora and fauna. The trail’s endpoint provides a serene spot to relax and enjoy the peaceful waters of the bay.

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Cruiser Lake Trail

Rating: Strenuous

Distance and Elevation Gain: Up to 9.4 miles one way (18.8 miles round trip) with an elevation gain of about 450 feet (137 meters)

Description: For those seeking a more challenging adventure, the Cruiser Lake Trail offers an extended hike through remote areas of the park, passing several lakes and offering potential wildlife encounters, including moose. The trail’s length and remote nature make it a rewarding experience for experienced hikers, showcasing the park’s wilderness.

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Ethnobotanic Garden Trail

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: 0.25 miles loop with minimal elevation gain

Description: Located at the Rainy Lake Visitor Center, this short, easy loop provides an educational experience about the local plants and their traditional uses by the indigenous people and early settlers. The trail is accessible and offers a quick, informative outdoor activity suitable for all ages.

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Oberholtzer Trail

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: 1.5 miles loop with minimal elevation gain

Description: This easy loop trail offers a peaceful walk through a mix of forested areas and along the shoreline of Rainy Lake. It’s named after Ernest Oberholtzer, a key figure in the establishment of Voyageurs National Park. The trail provides beautiful views of the lake and is an excellent choice for a leisurely hike.

FAQ’s

What is Voyageurs National Park known for?

Voyageurs National Park, located in northern Minnesota, is renowned for its stunning water-based landscape, encompassing a network of pristine lakes, waterways, and islands.

This unique national park is a haven for boaters, kayakers, and anglers, offering visitors the chance to explore its scenic beauty through extensive water activities. The park is named after the French-Canadian fur traders, known as “voyageurs,” who navigated these waters centuries ago.

Voyageurs is also known for its diverse ecosystems, which include northern boreal forests and abundant wildlife such as bald eagles, moose, and wolves.

Its dark skies make it a fantastic location for stargazing, including views of the Northern Lights under the right conditions.

With its combination of historical significance, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities, Voyageurs National Park provides a unique wilderness experience in the heart of the American Midwest.

What is Voyageurs National Park known for?

Voyageurs National Park, located in northern Minnesota, is renowned for its stunning water-based landscape, encompassing a network of pristine lakes, waterways, and islands.

This unique national park is a haven for boaters, kayakers, and anglers, offering visitors the chance to explore its scenic beauty through extensive water activities. The park is named after the French-Canadian fur traders, known as “voyageurs,” who navigated these waters centuries ago.

Voyageurs is also known for its diverse ecosystems, which include northern boreal forests and abundant wildlife such as bald eagles, moose, and wolves.

Its dark skies make it a fantastic location for stargazing, including views of the Northern Lights under the right conditions.

With its combination of historical significance, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities, Voyageurs National Park provides a unique wilderness experience in the heart of the American Midwest.

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