Things To Do
World Class Lake Kabetogama Fishing
If you are looking for the best things to do in Voyageurs National Park, it is particularly known for its abundant fishing opportunities, and Lake Kabetogama fishing is the finest example. Voyageurs National Park is host to Lakes Kabetogama and continuous Namakan; Sullivan’s Bay; Ash River; Rainy; Sandpoint; and the Canadian waterways. We offer boat rentals by the day and you can fish the quiet coves, captivating shorelines and vast waterways. In just one outing, you will understand why families return year after year for delicious walleye, jumbo perch, slab black crappie, monster northern pike, largemouth & smallmouth bass, sturgeon, and panfish.
Minnesota Fishing License Online
Fishing Guides
Lake Kabetogama Fishing Report
Voyageurs National Park Highlights
To visit the popular highlights of Voyageurs National Park you will need a boat or a Tour Guide
Ellsworth Rock Gardens
“Showplace of Lake Kabetogama”; Only accessible by boat; Approximately 62 terraced flower beds were constructed on the granite outcrop that were filled with more than 13,000 lilies of four different varieties at the peak of the garden’s bloom.
Kettle Falls
Famous (infamous?) red-roofed hotel owned and operated by the parks service, and is located in the National Park. Only accessible by boat.
I.W. Stevens Resort
The original home of the Virginia and Rainy Lake Lumber Company retreat, Stevens Island was untouched by logging. This site preserves historic structures from the recreation and resort era of the 1930s. Also only accessible by boat.
Hoist Bay
Historically significant for its early 1900s logging operations, transformed into a recreational site with Monson’s Resort in the 1930s, offering visitors a blend of natural beauty and a glimpse into the past within Voyageurs National Park.
Day Use Sites
First come first served sites within the park. Whether it be for a picnic, swimming from shore, or just taking a rest reservations are not needed for Day Use Sites.
Resort Recreation
- Bring your little ones to our playground for hours of fun, climbing, playing, and swinging around
- Play a competitive game on our volleyball net with friends or family
- Challenge your friends or family to a game of badminton, a fun and active sport for all ages
- Put your aim to the test with a classic bean bag toss game, perfect for both kids and adults
- Bring out one of our yard games like ladder toss to keep everyone entertained and engaged
- End your day gathered around the campfire, sharing stories, and enjoying the warmth and ambiance
Hiking
Throughout the estate are a series of scenic private roads and hiking trails that wind through the woods, rising to heights of more than 300 feet and culminating in breathtaking cliffside views of Lake Kabetogama. These roads and trails follow the same path that many deer, bears, and wolves created years ago while meandering through the woods on the estate.
Aside from a few benches placed at strategic locations, the local flora is left to its own ingenious devices. Walkers may admire an array of the region’s plants and trees as they walk the paths, where mighty white pine, ash, and majestic birch are plentiful. These give way to a beautiful meadow as the trail ascends to reveal panoramas of the Northwoods. You will also find Mother Nature’s gifts as you explore many of these trails. During mid-summer, the rock-overs are full of wild blueberries. Along many of the trails, you will also find wild strawberries and raspberries.
Voyageurs National Park lists 10 hiking trails accessible by land and 5 hiking trails by water.
Area Restaurants
Arrowhead Lodge [directions from resort] 14 min drive – Original log lodge restaurant & bar
Rocky Ledge [directions from resort] 5 min drive
Kec’s Kove [directions from resort] 11 min drive
Sandy Point [directions from resort] 13 min drive
Ray, MN
Boondocks Bar & Grill [directions from resort] 14 min drive
Ash River
Ash Ka Nam [directions from resort] 23 min drive
Ash Trail Lodge [directions from resort] 20 min drive
International Falls
Chocolate Moose Restaurant [directions from resort] 28 min drive
Sammy’s Pizza [directions from resort] 34 min drive
Cantilever Distillery [directions from resort] 33 min drive
Museums
Koochiching County Museums [directions from resort] 34 min drive
Historical Museum
Galleries feature ten thousand years of borderland history. Exhibits document the northern Minnesota region including native history and culture, European settlement, and the exploitation of natural resources through the fur trade to modern forestry.
Bronko Museum
As any sportsman knows, Bronko Nagurski may have been the greatest football player of all time. The Bronko Nagurski Museum is a lasting tribute to this 1930’s sports legend. This is the only museum in America dedicated to this All American Gopher and NFL Hall of Fame Chicago Bear. Come and experience the early days of the NFL, and be inspired by this Football Legend!
Fort Frances Museum [directions from resort] Located in Canada; 41 min drive & a toll
The Fort Frances Museum collects, preserves, researches, exhibits and interprets the artifacts that depict the story of man and nature as it relates to the history of Fort Frances and the surrounding Rainy River District.
Voyageurs National Park Visitor Centers
If you’re planning to visit Voyageurs National Park, don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore the park’s incredible visitor centers. These centers offer a wealth of information about the park’s history, ecology, and recreational opportunities. With interactive exhibits, informative displays, and knowledgeable rangers on hand to answer questions, you’ll be well-equipped to make the most of your time in the park.
The Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center is open late May through mid-September and is a 1 mile, 20-minute walk from the resort.
The National Park Service offers several boat tours with different itineraries and tour dates departing from all three visitor centers. Tickets will become available for purchase on April 15th of each year for that summer’s tours. This is among the most popular things to do in Voyageurs National Park, so book your reservation early.
Water Activities
- Rent a boat and explore the beautiful waters of the area
- Soak up the sun on our beach
- Get up close and personal with nature by kayaking through the serene waterways
- Experience the tranquility of canoeing as you glide across the water’s surface
- Test your balance and core strength with some paddleboarding
- Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear water from the beach or dock
- Enjoy some heart-pumping fun with a floating trampoline that’s sure to provide hours of entertainment
Sky Watching
Voyageurs National park was named an International Dark Sky Park in late 2020. The Pines of Kabetogama already has incredible views of the night sky (including the elusive Northern Lights). Join us for some of the incredible celestial events of 2023!
Animal Watching
Located 53 miles from the resort, the Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary in Orr, MN is a Black Bear sanctuary open from May 28th through September 4th, 2022.
The woods among The Pines of Kabetogama property are a birdwatcher’s paradise. Birdwatching is among one of the more popular things to do in Voyageurs National Park. Multiple species have been identified, and observant hikers may spot hummingbirds, woodpeckers, chickadees, nuthatches, finches, robins, and orioles. You may even enjoy the luxury of sighting a golden or bald eagle. The raptors love to hunt in the meadow. You will find falcons and hawks alike, teaching the young to hunt.
Besides small birds, other wildlife that makes a home at the Pines of Kabetogama are bear, wolf, grouse, ducks, deer, raccoons, squirrels, rabbits, fox, porcupine, and chipmunks. We also have several reptiles that amaze us with their presence. We have a variety of turtles, mostly snapping and painted, that make the journey cliffside to lay their eggs.
Shopping
Gateway General Store [directions from resort] 7 min drive – bait, basic groceries, and gifts
Pine Ridge Gift Shop [directions from resort] 5 min drive – gifts and bakery goods and gifts. You can order pies for next-day pickup
Kab Outdoors [directions from resort] 5 min drive – bait, basic groceries, and gifts
Large Grocery Stores:
Super One [directions from resort] 35 min drive to International Falls, MN
Zup’s Food Market [directions from resort] 55 min drive to Cook, MN
There is a Walmart just across the US/Canada border in Fort Frances, Canada [directions from resort] Located in Canada; 44 min drive to Fort Frances, Canada
Golfing
Vermillion Fairways [directions from resort] 54 min drive to International Falls
Kitchen Creek Golf Course [directions from resort] Located in Canada; 51 min drive & a toll
Heron Landing Golf Club [directions from resort] Located in Canada; 50 min drive & a toll
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can you see the Northern Lights in Voyageurs National Park
Certainly! The Northern Lights are visible in Voyageurs National Park all year long. The frequency varies each year, but on average, they are visible about 75-100 times per year. That’s better than a 1-in-5 chance each day of the year! Visit our Northern Lights Page to learn more.
What is so special about Voyageurs National Park?
Voyageurs National Park, nestled in the northern reaches of Minnesota, is an absolute marvel that beckons with a thrilling blend of aquatic adventure and untamed wilderness! Let’s dive into what makes this national park so incredibly special:
Aquatic Wonderland: Picture this – a vast network of interconnected waterways, featuring the dazzling trio of Rainy Lake, Kabetogama Lake, and Namakan Lake! The park’s pristine lakes are a water enthusiast’s dream, offering a playground for boating, kayaking, and fishing that’s beyond compare.
Cross-Border Extravaganza: Hold onto your hats because Voyageurs National Park doesn’t just stop at the U.S. border – it extends into the wilds of Ontario, Canada! This international flair adds a touch of global exploration to your wilderness escapade.
Islands Galore: The lakes within the park aren’t just any lakes; they’re a mosaic of islands waiting to be explored! Each island is a unique gem, contributing to the park’s breathtaking beauty and promising endless adventures.
Wildlife Bonanza: Brace yourself for encounters with the wild side! Moose, black bears, wolves, and a symphony of birdlife call this park home. The diverse habitats, ranging from lush forests to wetlands, create a haven for biodiversity that’ll leave you awe-inspired.
Starry Nights: Calling all stargazers! Voyageurs National Park proudly boasts the title of an International Dark Sky Park, where the night sky puts on a celestial show free from the hustle and bustle of city lights. Get ready for an enchanting experience under the stars!
Time-Traveling History: Step into the past as you explore remnants of the fur trade era, including the historic Kettle Falls Hotel. The park’s rich history adds an extra layer of excitement for those craving a dash of nostalgia.
In a nutshell, Voyageurs National Park isn’t just a park; it’s a vibrant tapestry of thrilling water adventures, international exploration, diverse wildlife, star-studded nights, and a journey through the annals of history. There are so many things to do at Voyageurs National Park, get ready for an exhilarating celebration of nature that’ll leave you shouting, “Adventure awaits!”
What city is closest to Voyageurs National Park?
A Google search is going to tell you International Falls is the nearest city be aware that access to Voyageurs National Park from International Falls is limited at best. Because of the Voyageurs National Park location, the real gem, the beating heart of the Voyageurs experience, is Kabetogama. Voyageurs National Park is comprised of four lakes and only Rainy Lake is accessible from International Falls. From Kabetogama you have access to the combined 56,069 acres and 316 miles of shoreline of lakes Kabetogama, Namakan, Sand Point, and Crane Lake.
How much does it cost for one vehicle to enter Voyageurs National Park?
Voyageurs National Park does not have an entrance fee!
When should I go to Voyageurs National Park?
Choosing the ideal time to visit Voyageurs National Park depends on your preferences and the type of experience you’re seeking. When is the best time to visit Voyageurs National Park? Here’s a breakdown to help you plan your adventure:
Voyageurs National Park Spring (May to early June):
Highlights: Renewed vegetation and the awakening of wildlife.
Activities: Similar to summer, but with fewer crowds. Spring is excellent for birdwatching and enjoying blooming wildflowers.
Considerations: Water temperatures might be cooler, and some facilities may not be fully operational early in the season.
Voyageurs National Park Summer (June to August):
Highlights: Warm temperatures, vibrant greenery, and extended daylight hours.
Activities: Ideal for water-based activities like boating, fishing, kayaking, and swimming. Hiking trails are accessible, and wildlife is active.
Considerations: Summer is the peak season, so the park can be busier. Make reservations for accommodations and boat rentals in advance.
Voyageurs National Park Fall (September to October):
Highlights: Gorgeous fall foliage as the leaves change colors.
Activities: Boating and fishing are still viable, and hiking trails offer breathtaking views of the autumn landscape.
Considerations: The weather starts cooling down, and some services may reduce availability as the season progresses.
Voyageurs National Park Winter (Late December to February):
Highlights: A winter wonderland with snow-covered landscapes.
Activities: Snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing on frozen lakes. The park offers a unique and serene experience in winter.
Considerations: Cold temperatures require appropriate gear, and certain services may be limited. Check for winter access information.
Keep in mind that Voyageurs National Park is open year-round, and each season offers a distinct charm. If you’re a fan of water activities and warm weather, summer might be your go-to. If you prefer a quieter experience with snowy landscapes, winter could be your adventure of choice. Be sure to check the park’s website for the latest information on wea
Are motorboats allowed in Voyageurs National Park?
Absolutely! The one restriction is that personal watercraft (PWC), also known as jet skis or wave runners are prohibited. You can bring your own boat, and if you don’t have one to bring, no worry! We have many boats in our rental fleet to choose from.
Is Voyageurs National Park worth visiting?
The worthiness of a visit to Voyageurs National Park depends on your interests, appreciation for nature, and the type of experiences you seek. Here are key factors to consider when determining if Voyageurs National Park is worth it for you:
Worth it if you:
• Are drawn to water-centric activities. Voyageurs is renowned for its interconnected lakes, making it a haven for boating, kayaking, fishing, and exploring islands.
• Appreciate breathtaking landscapes. The park’s pristine lakes, lush forests, and diverse ecosystems provide a visually stunning backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
• Enjoy wildlife encounters. Voyageurs is home to a variety of animals, including moose, bear, and numerous bird species, offering opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
• Seek diverse outdoor activities. Whether it’s hiking, birdwatching, snowmobiling, or stargazing, Voyageurs National Park caters to a wide range of recreational interests.
• Crave a tranquil escape. Voyageurs offers a remote and serene environment, making it an ideal destination for those looking to disconnect and enjoy nature’s beauty.
• Are a stargazer. The park’s International Dark Sky designation means it’s an excellent location for observing the night sky with minimal light pollution.
• Appreciate history. Voyageurs has ties to the fur trade era, and remnants like the Kettle Falls Hotel provide a glimpse into the region’s past.
• Enjoy different seasons. Whether it’s the vibrant colors of fall, the snowy landscapes of winter, or the lively activities of summer, Voyageurs offers something for every season.
If you’re someone who loves outdoor adventures, enjoys water activities, and appreciates the beauty of unspoiled nature, a visit to Voyageurs National Park is likely to be highly worthwhile. It’s a destination that caters to diverse interests and provides a unique and immersive experience in the heart of the Minnesota wilderness.
Can you access Voyageurs National Park by car?
Yes, there are opportunities to access Voyageurs National Park, however, keep in mind that roughly a third of the park is covered in water. While you can access some areas of the park by car, many attractions are accessible only by boat. Whether it be by bringing your own boat, renting one, or scheduling a tour you will have access deeper into the park, allowing you to experience its interconnected waterways and remote islands.
What can you do in Voyageurs National Park without a boat?
Visiting Voyageurs National Park without a boat offers a variety of enjoyable activities and experiences to explore its stunning landscapes and natural beauty. Here are some activities and options available for visitors without a boat:
Visitors Centers: The visitor centers in Voyageurs National Park offers essential information, educational programs, and resources to enhance your exploration and understanding of the park’s unique ecosystem and history
Hiking: Voyageurs National Park has several hiking trails accessible by vehicle, offering a chance to explore a variety of North Woods habitats. Whether you’re looking for a short walk or a longer hike, the park has trails that cater to different interests and fitness levels
Stargazing and Northern Lights Viewing: Thanks to its Dark Sky certification, Voyageurs National Park offers exceptional stargazing opportunities, including the chance to see the Northern Lights. Areas away from light pollution, such as Rainy Lake’s fishing dock or the Ash River Visitor Center, provide wide views of the sky for astronomical observation
Winter Activities: During the colder months, the park transforms into a winter wonderland, offering activities like skiing and snowshoeing on designated trails. This season presents a unique way to experience the park’s beauty under a blanket of snow
For more details on planning your visit and exploring all the activities Voyageurs National Park has to offer without a boat, check the official NPS website
What are 3 important facts about Voyageurs?
Voyageurs National Park is renowned for its interconnected waterways, making it a predominantly water-based wilderness. Kabetogama is our favorite lake in Voyageurs National Park, which encompasses over 200 lakes, including interior lakes on the Kabetogama Peninsula, Rainy Lake, Namakan Lake, and Sand Point Lake. This network of lakes and rivers offers visitors opportunities for boating, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing, creating a unique and immersive experience.
Voyageurs National Park holds the prestigious designation of an International Dark Sky Park. This recognition highlights the park’s commitment to preserving its natural night environment and provides excellent conditions for stargazing. Visitors can enjoy unparalleled views of the night sky with minimal light pollution, making it a haven for astronomy enthusiasts and those seeking a serene nocturnal experience.
The park’s history is intertwined with the North American fur trade era. The Kettle Falls Hotel, located within the park, stands as a remnant of this historical period. The area was once a hub for fur traders, explorers, and indigenous peoples. The Kettle Falls Hotel provides a glimpse into the region’s past and serves as a reminder of the cultural and historical significance of Voyageurs National Park.
Are there hiking trails in Voyageurs National park?
Voyageurs National Park lists 10 hiking trails accessible by land and 5 hiking trails water. Due to it’s proximity to the resort and Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center, the Echo Bay trail is popular with guests. Click here to learn more.
