GREAT OUTDOORS WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO GET THERE? Voyageurs’ main visitor center (Rainy Lake) is a 300-mile drive from downtown Minneapolis. If you’re visiting from out of state, consider fl ying into MSP or Duluth International Airport. If you want to reach the park ASAP, starting in Duluth will shave a few hours off your drive. Check into the cozy Enger Lofts in Duluth’s Lincoln Park neighborhood, where you’ll fi nd a coffee shop ( 190° ), gourmet grocer ( Goat Hill Marketplace ) and several indie stores ( North & Shore , Liila Boutique , Ren Market ) on the ground fl oor. Some of the port city’s best food and drink spots (Bent Paddle, OMC Smokehouse) are also nearby. For a taste of Lake Superior’s iconic North Shore, drive up to the New Scenic Cafe for inspired Scandinavian cuisine. Or just head straight for your fi nal destination less than three hours away. local outfi tters rent kayaks, canoes, fi shing boats and pontoons. More adventurous travelers can hike or canoe into remote backcountry sites on the park’s smaller interior lakes (ones not Rainy, Kabetogama, Namakan or Sand Point). Voyageurs National Park ARE THERE ANY HOTELS, RESTAURANTS OR BARS IN THE AREA? Flanked by Rainy River to the west and Rainy Lake to the north, Ranier is a small town full of diversions within just a few blocks. Have a couple rounds of craft beer at Loony’s Brew , watch the sunset over the lake and grab dinner and a good night’s sleep at the historic Cantilever Distillery + Hotel . This newly renovated destination has luxe rooms with a bustling restaurant and bar serving excellent cocktails that highlight its house-made spirits. International Falls is a slightly larger community overlooked by a massive Smokey Bear statue. Stock up at grocery stores, and fuel up for the park or snag a souvenir. Local accommodations include The Nomad Motel and Cobblestone Hotel & Suites . AshKaNam Resort and Arrowhead Lodge are located just outside Voyageurs. AshKaNam is a prime fi shing spot, with a patio overlooking the Ash River and picturesque cliffs. Arrowhead’s onsite restaurant serves fresh, blackened walleye just steps from your bed, offering a perfect respite after a day paddling Lake Kabetogama. Summer may be peak time to visit, but Voyageurs is beautiful in all four seasons, including in winter when you can explore the network of ice roads maintained by the National Park. Regardless of when you visit, the park is a shining example of the beauty of Minnesota's north woods and lakes. #ONLYIN MN | 55 HOW CAN I STAY ON A HOUSEBOAT? There are several houseboat operators that offer a wide range of boat sizes and features -everything from a modest 36-foot houseboat to a massive 65-foot vessel. Voyageurs National Park Vessels are typically outfi tted with bunks, a shower, bathroom, sitting areas, a fridge and a kitchen with basic supplies. All you need is groceries, linens and a permit from the National Park Service. Bring plenty of bug spray and sunscreen during warmer months, too. WHERE CAN I CAMP? There are plenty of camping sites throughout Voyageurs. Most are right on the lakeshore and have a fi re ring, table, bearproof food locker and a place to park your boat. No boat? No problem. Many Voyageurs National Park Credit: Erik Fremstad, Voyageurs Conservancy
Explore Minnesota Travel Guide 2025 Explore Minnesota Travel Guide: Page 55
