Voyageurs National Park’s visitor centers are open from May 24 to September 28, 9 AM to 5 PM, seven days a week. From January to March, they are open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 10 AM to 4 PM. They are closed from late September to late May, except for some weekend hours in early May.
There is no entrance fee to visit Voyageurs National Park. You can enter and explore the park for free.
By Air: Fly into International Falls Airport (INL) then rent a car. By Car: I-35 to Duluth, then Hwy 53 north to International Falls and County Rd 23 to park entry points. By Bus: Greyhound to Duluth or International Falls + local transport. By Boat: Launch at regional marinas or rent boats. Guided Tours: Local outfitters provide transport and excursions.
Parking is available at three visitor centers: Rainy Lake, Kabetogama Lake, and Ash River. Ample space for cars, RVs, and boat trailers; no overnight parking; no parking fees. Motorcycle parking also available.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Voyageurs National Park, located in northern Minnesota along the Canadian border, is a haven for water enthusiasts and nature lovers. With over 40% of the park covered in water, visitors can explore interconnected lakes like Rainy Lake, Kabetogama Lake, and Namakan Lake by kayak, canoe, or motorboat. Hike the scenic Kab-Ash Trail or Oberholtzer Trail, spot bald eagles, black bears, and loons, take a guided boat tour to Kettle Falls, and stargaze in this International Dark Sky Park.
- Area (mi²)
- 341
- Annual visitors
- 221 000
- Established year
- 1975
Top 3 Facts about Voyageurs National Park
This park features some of the oldest rocks in North America, with ages ranging between 1 and 3 billion years, offering a unique geological glimpse into the continent’s ancient history.
Features an extensive network of waterways—four major lakes and numerous rivers and streams totaling over 344 km² of water.
Home to diverse wildlife, including black bears, moose, timber wolves, bald eagles, ospreys, and over 240 species of migratory birds.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Scavenger Hunts
- Night Sky & Astronomy
- Water-based Adventures
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Research activities, check NPS website for conditions, trail closures, and make campsite or boat‐rental reservations in advance.
Pack Appropriately
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, sturdy shoes, rain gear, and a basic first-aid kit.
Respect Wildlife
Store food securely, make noise on trails to alert wildlife (especially bears), and observe animals from a safe distance.
Stay Informed
Consult the NPS website or park visitor centers for up-to-date alerts, weather advisories, and boating/trail conditions.
Seasons
Spring brings thawing lakes, blooming wildflowers, and migratory birds—ideal for birdwatching, fishing, and early boating.
Summer offers long days for boating, kayaking, swimming, hiking, camping, and ranger-led programs in warm weather.
Fall showcases vibrant foliage along lakeshores, cooler temperatures, prime fishing, wildlife viewing, and fewer crowds.
Winter freezes lakes for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing; dark skies for northern lights viewing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Voyageurs National Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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To visit the area, you can stay in International Falls, Minnesota, which is close to the park and offers several hotels like the AmericInn by Wyndham International Falls and the Cobblestone Hotel & Suites. Alternatively, you can consider staying at resorts near Lake Kabetogama, such as Northern Lights Resort & Outfitting or Harmony Beach Resort and Lodge, which are also very close to the park. If you prefer to stay within the park, the Kettle Falls Hotel is the only in-park lodging option.
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The Blind Ash Bay Trail is a family-friendly option, a moderate 0.9-mile nature trail with a steep incline that gets hikers close to wildlife and the badlands. The Echo Bay Trail is another easy choice, a 2.5-mile loop through the woods and past rocky outcrops. The Rainy Lake Recreation Trail is also easy, a 1.75-mile trail along park roads and through various outdoor habitats.
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You can bring your dog to the front country campsites, on the 1.7-mile Rainy Lake Recreation Trail, and in developed areas like visitor centers and boat launch ramps. Your dog must be on a 6-foot leash, under control, and attended to at all times. You also need to pick up after your dog and ensure they are vaccinated.
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Parking for vehicles, including campers, trailers, and motorhomes, is free at the park’s visitor centers for up to 14 days during the dates of your camping permit.
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The highlight is the visitor center, which displays over 300 fossils of animals, reptiles, bugs, and other creatures found in the ancient Fossil Lake. The center includes a modern exhibit and a virtual aquarium showing what the lake might have looked like. It also features a Journey Through Time exhibit that visualizes the Earth’s 4.5 billion-year geologic history.