Voyageurs National Park is comprised of 214,000 acres of boreal and northern hardwood forest, inspiring wildlife, and miles of interconnected waterways. Because of its uniqueness, people across the state and nation visit the park for a variety of reasons.
Boaters and hikers, paddlers and anglers, snowshoers and cross-country skiers, fat bikers and snowmobilers, stargazers and foragers, kayakers and campers all find refuge in the wild character of Voyageurs National Park. Before heading out, consider what you want out of your Voyageurs experience.
SUMMER
Due to its warm temperatures, longer days, and opportunity for outdoor recreation, summer is the busiest season at Voyageurs National Park! From Memorial Day to Labor Day, visitors enjoy boating, paddling, angling, hiking, swimming and more. Visitor centers and tour boats typically open in June. Visitors wanting to take advantage of warmer lake temperatures (and fewer biting insects) should consider visiting near the end of July through mid-August.
FALL
Vibrant colors ablaze, crisp temperatures, and less traffic make autumn an outstanding time to visit Voyageurs. Visitors can enjoy the changing fall colors as they hike trails or cast their fishing line. However, fall can be a short season in Northern Minnesota and cold temperatures arrive quickly. Near the end of September, boaters and paddlers should be aware of cold-water temperatures. In addition, park buoys are typically removed in early October, making lake navigation challenging.
WINTER
Winter: Few individuals venture into Voyageurs in the winter, but those who do are rewarded with an unmatched experience of solitude and beauty. Visitors can enjoy miles of groomed snowshoes, snowmobiles, ski trails, and an ice road! If you want to increase your likelihood of catching the Northern Lights – consider a winter visit. Before venturing to Voyageurs, make sure you check ice and trail reports and make sure you’re properly prepared for winter conditions.
Weather and Ice: Weather is an important factor in any outdoor trip, but especially when boating and paddling are involved. Strong winds can make travel across the large lakes difficult and dangerous. Make sure to check the weather before your visit and before you set out on the water. In the winter, frozen lake surfaces can be explored by snowshoeing, snowmobiling, or cross-country skiing. It is important to check the ice and trail conditions before recreating in the winter.
Experience an International Dark Sky Park
Certified by the International Dark Sky Association, Voyageurs National Park is Minnesota’s only International Dark Sky Park. These spaces protect crucial nocturnal habitats, abundant wildlife, and our universal connection to the night sky. This significant certification requires the ongoing preservation of extremely dark skies and a commitment to host inspiring night sky programs.
SPRING
Spring: Depending on temperatures and ice melt, spring can be an unpredictable season. Snow turns to slush and the lake begins to thaw. If mud does not faze you, explore trails accessible on land or learn more about the park at the Rainy Lake Visitor Center. Anglers can enjoy premiere fishing during May’s fishing opener.
