Posted March 24, 2009 9:54 am
Voyageurs, Our National Park
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Voyageurs National Park
A string of four large lakes along Minnesota’s northern border are the heart of Voyageurs National Park, the only national park in the state and one of only a few in the Midwest. These pristine lakes were part of the historic waterway paddled by rugged fur traders, called voyagers, who traveled this area long ago. The 655 miles of shoreline and 500 islands, thick with pine and hardwood forest, look much as they did 200 years ago. But today’s voyageurs can travel these lakes in ease.
Getting out on the lakes is really the only way to fully experience Voyageurs. There are three visitors centers, with exhibits and introductory films, and several hiking trails, but getting out in a boat is key to enjoying the park. If you bring your own boat, there are boat launches at each of the visitors centers. But there are several other options, as well.
Boat excursions: The park offers several naturalist-guided boat trips, ranging from 1 ½ to over 5 hours; stops along the various trips include an old gold mine, an unusual rock garden, and historic Kettle Falls Hotel, reachable only by boat. Bald eagles and other wildlife are frequently spotted on these trips.
North canoe voyage: On these guided trips, participants help paddle a replica of the 26-foot canoes used by the voyageurs.
Rent a boat: Many resorts and other businesses at the edge of the park rent motorboats, canoes and kayaks. Take day trips or boat to a designated campsite to overnight under the starry sky.
Houseboat adventures: You can also rent a houseboat, virtually a floating cabin, to explore the wilderness in comfort. Drop an anchor offshore each night. Some houseboats come with slides or a hot tub.
There are several resorts and campgrounds adjacent to the park, and motels in International Falls, about 10 miles west of the park. To make a reservation for one of the scheduled boat trips, call 888-381-2873. For more information on the park, see:
4 Responses to “ Voyageurs, Our National Park ”
July 16th, 2009 at 2:49 pm Wayne & Jan Ware
We have been to Voyagers and know that it is even more beautiful that pictures and words can describe. There is something here for the entire family. International Falls is also a great place to visit, explore and shop.
July 21st, 2009 at 1:33 pm Pete Schultz
The area is beautiful, and has some really great points of interest! You can look south into Canada from the United States at Kettle Falls. I hear the park service will add interpretive signage and history markers at the Oveson Fish Camp near Lost Bay. The gold Mine at Little American Island already has a great hiking trail and signage to explain the mining operation. All of the Visitor Centers offer ways to learn about and explore the park.
July 30th, 2009 at 2:00 pm gary severson
The Mississipi River National Recreation Area is considered a national park.
August 11th, 2009 at 2:46 pm James Riemermann
Gary, thanks for pointing out that the Mississippi National River & Recreation Area is part of the National Parks System, although it is not called a park. Same with Grand Portage National Monument and Pipestone National Monument. More information on all of them can be found here:
http://www.nps.gov/state/MN/