► 48°30’ N, 92°53’ W
► MINNESOTA
► WWW.NPS.GOV/VOYA
HEAD NORTH AS THE WEATHER COOLS. YES!
Voyageurs National Park, found in the Northern part of Minnesota, provides remarkable foliage with mesmerizing reflections on wide water expanses. Plus, it’s an ideal location to get away from it all to find peace and serenity. As a bonus, it remains open year-round.
Explore the historic Meadwood Lodge near the Ash River Visitor Center. (Be aware, it closes in late September for the winter.) After visiting the historic building, head outside to take in the stunning views, like this sunset pictured behind the Center.
In this expansive natural wonderland, you’ll find water, water everywhere. Voyageurs National Park spans a massive 218,00 acres of abundant waters, including lakes, streams, and waterfalls, surrounded by woodlands, providing fantastic opportunities to relax, recreate, and explore.
On the north shore of Lake Kabetogama, immerse yourself in art by Jack Ellsworth. A self-taught artist and creator, Ellsworth used natural materials from the native landscape to create an unforgettable environment of abstract rock sculptures surrounded by colorful flower beds. A truly unique destination.
With boundless opportunities to boat, camp, fish, hike, and more, you’ll find plenty to do. Remember, though, with all the bodies of water and rock hazards, safety comes first. Watch the weather and prepare to take shelter in case of high winds, waves, and storms, which can quickly overtake plans for a peaceful afternoon.
Mushrooms and other fungi are abundant throughout the park and can be found on stumps, under leaves, on tree trunks, and even popping up through the grass after a good rain.
Peppered throughout the park are intriguing islands that are typically only accessible by boat. A variety of boat types, canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards are available to rent if you don’t bring your own. Or, you can get a water shuttle to explore, camp, or fish at various locations.
The Aurora Borealis, aka the northern lights, sporadically create magical night skies in the northern hemisphere. As winter approaches, you may be more likely to see an awe-inspiring light show on a clear, cool evening. (You can find out how likely you are to see the lights at the Alaska Geophysical Institute’s Aurora Forecast up to a month before your visit.)
If you observe closely, you can find the area teaming with wildlife, from more than 240 bird species to red squirrels chattering on the ground. If you’re lucky, you may even be able to spot a moose, beaver, or wolf. Made up of water and wetlands, the park is also home to abundant amphibians, such as frogs and salamanders, as well as reptiles like snakes and turtles.
