National Park · Minnesota
Voyageurs National Park
Voyageurs National Park spans 218,000 acres of lakes, forests, and streams in northern Minnesota. Established in 1975, the park is named after the French-Canadian Voyageurs who once navigated these abundant waters. Voyageurs National Park provides exceptional opportunities for recreation and exploration amidst landscapes rich in natural beauty, history, and cultural heritage.
Things to do
- Arts and Culture
- Cultural Demonstrations
- Astronomy
- Stargazing
- Biking
- Boating
- Motorized Boating
- Sailing
- Boat Tour
- Camping
- Backcountry Camping
- Canoe or Kayak Camping
- Group Camping
- RV Camping
- Fishing
- Freshwater Fishing
- Food
- Dining
- Picnicking
- Guided Tours
- Self-Guided Tours - Walking
- Boat Tour
- Hiking
- Backcountry Hiking
Weather & when to go
There are four distinct seasons in Voyageur country. During June, July, and August periods of fine, mild weather prevail. The frost-free season averages 120 days from June to mid-September. The average ice-out date is May 3. The first measurable snowfall occurs in late October and the last in late April or early May.
Operating hours
Park Hours
Voyageurs is open 24-hours a day year-round, although activities and services are limited after visitor center hours. Please note that early spring and late fall may present hazards on the lake with thin ice; use caution.
FAQ
- Is Voyageurs National Park free to visit?
- Voyageurs National Park does not charge a standard entrance fee. Check the official NPS page for the latest details on any activity or permit fees before you go.
- What are the hours at Voyageurs National Park?
- Voyageurs is open 24-hours a day year-round, although activities and services are limited after visitor center hours. Please note that early spring and late fall may present hazards on the lake with thin ice; use caution.
- Do I need a reservation for Voyageurs National Park?
- No timed-entry reservation is currently required to enter Voyageurs National Park. Campgrounds and permits may still need to be booked separately on Recreation.gov.
Related guides
Trip plans and deep-dives from the PeepTrip blog featuring Voyageurs National Park.
Best Hikes in Voyageurs National Park
Voyageurs is a water park, so its trails split into drive-up hikes and boat-access hikes. Here is which is which, and which ones are worth the crossing.
Best Parks for Kayaking: Top Water Trails
The best national parks for kayaking, from glassy northern lakes to mangrove tunnels and rugged sea coasts.
National Parks in Minnesota: Voyageurs Guide
A quick guide to national parks in Minnesota, centered on the water-based wilderness of Voyageurs National Park.
National Parks Near Minneapolis: Road Trips
Boreal lakes, big rivers, and northern wilderness within a road trip of the Twin Cities.