- Voyageurs National Park, in northern Minnesota, has camping sites that are only accessible by boat.
- Before arriving at the park, travelers should book their campsite and boat transport. This does not require an entrance pass.
- You can also reserve a houseboat outside the park. This will cost you extra money, and require permits. However, it adds convenience to your visit.
There are some national parks where the experience revolves around hiking trails and scenic drives; water features—such as lakes, rivers, and waterfalls—are secondary. Voyageurs National Park This is not among them. The national park saw an increase of 89 percent in Google searches, according to adventure travel operator Explore Worldwide.)
The 218,000-acre park, located in northern Minnesota just south of Canada’s border, is best explored by boat. It has 30 lakes and over 500 islands. According to BoatMartBoaters can enjoy the canoeing and kayaking opportunities in Northern Minnesota’s breathtaking forest beauty.
A park entrance pass isn’t required, but it’s recommended that travelers plan ahead by booking a boat or camping site or a tour. It is important to note that almost all campsites in the park are only accessible by water.
You can choose from a few options if you are interested in being your own captain. The National Park Service The outfitter you choose will depend on the vessel that you prefer and where it is to be located. There are four water access points in the park, located at the Rainy Lake visitor center, the Kabetogama Lake and Ash River visitor centres, as well the Crane Lake Ranger Station. Voyageurs can be found at Rainy Lake. Outfitters The following are some examples of how to get started: Rainy Lake Aquatics Rent motorboats as well as canoes or kayaks.
Some tourists choose a scenic cruise instead. The park has a number of different activities available from June to September. guided tours These tours can last anywhere from 1.5 to 6 hours. North Canoe Voyage takes guests on a journey through the park in a replica 26-foot canoe that voyageurs would have used in the early 1800s. The Life on the Lake Tour gives an historical view of the region, showing passengers gold mines, fish camps and what life was like back then for the trappers and loggers who explored the area.
Renting a houseboat is a great option for those who want to stay in the park a few nights without setting up a tent. These types of watercraft are rented from companies outside of the park—places like Northernaire Houseboats, Voyagaire Lodge & Houseboats. Ebel’s Voyageur Houseboats. Permits are requiredThe extra effort and fees will be worth it.
While you can enjoy the park’s natural beauty, go fishing or swimming during the day, you might be lucky enough to see the northern light at night. Voyageurs National Park is an International Dark Sky Park and the winter months are the best to view the aurora borealis. However, September is a great time for those who prefer warmer weather, water, and the chance to see the Northern Lights.
