About Voyageurs
Voyageurs National Park spans 218,000 acres of lakes, forests, and streams in northern Minnesota. Established in 1975, the park is named after the French-Canadian Voyageurs who once navigated these abundant waters. Voyageurs National Park provides exceptional opportunities for recreation and exploration amidst landscapes rich in natural beauty, history, and cultural heritage.
Things to do: Arts and Culture · Cultural Demonstrations · Astronomy · Stargazing · Biking · Boating · Motorized Boating · Sailing · Boat Tour · Camping · Backcountry Camping · Canoe or Kayak Camping · Group Camping · RV Camping
Popular trails
Curated routes with approximate round-trip distance. In the app, tap one to log it.
- Kabetogama Lake Overlook Trail1.7 mi
- Cruiser Lake Trail1.5 mi
- Beaver Pond Trail0.3 mi
- Locator Lake Trail1.5 mi
Camping
Approximately 271 campsites across the park's campgrounds. Reservations are strongly recommended in peak season (June – August).
Best time to visit
Peak season: June – August. The park is open year-round, though some roads and facilities close or run reduced hours in winter.
There are four distinct seasons in Voyageur country. During June, July, and August periods of fine, mild weather prevail. The frost-free season averages 120 days from June to mid-September. The average ice-out date is May 3. The first measurable snowfall occurs in late October and the last in late April or early May.
Getting there
Nearest city: International Falls, MN. Park center: 48.480°, -92.840°.
Voyageurs National Park is located in Northern Minnesota near the Canadian border. Access to Voyageurs is available from many points along Rainy Lake, Kabetogama Lake, Ash River, Crane Lake, and Orr/Pelican Lake. The park's visitor centers and many trails can be reached by car, but much of Voyageurs is best explored by boat.
All campsites in the park, except primitive, require a boat to reach.
Common questions
How much does it cost to visit Voyageurs National Park?
Entry is Free. An America the Beautiful annual pass covers entrance fees at every national park.
When is the best time to visit Voyageurs?
Peak season is June – August. The park is open year-round, with some roads and facilities on reduced winter schedules. There are four distinct seasons in Voyageur country. During June, July, and August periods of fine, mild weather prevail. The frost-free season averages 120 days from June to mid-September. The average ice-out date is May 3. The first measurable snowfall occurs in late October and the last in late April or early May.
Can you camp in Voyageurs National Park?
Yes — about 271 campsites across the park's campgrounds. Reserve ahead in peak season.
What is the closest city to Voyageurs National Park?
International Falls, MN is the nearest major city. Voyageurs National Park is located in Northern Minnesota near the Canadian border. Access to Voyageurs is available from many points along Rainy Lake, Kabetogama Lake, Ash River, Crane Lake, and Orr/Pelican Lake. The park's visitor centers and many trails can be reached by car, but much of Voyageurs is best explored by boat.
What are the best hikes in Voyageurs?
Popular trails include Kabetogama Lake Overlook Trail (1.7 mi), Cruiser Lake Trail (1.5 mi), Beaver Pond Trail (0.3 mi), Locator Lake Trail (1.5 mi). The park has roughly 53 named trails.
Plan your trip
The practical bits, so more of the weekend goes to the trail.