Worth a DetourNatureNational parksLakesNorthern lights

Voyageurs National Park

Minnesota

A water park on Minnesota's Canadian border, explored by boat, with houseboats, wolves and northern lights.

Photo: National Park Service Digital Image Archives · Public domain

Named for the French-Canadian fur traders who paddled here, it's a maze of lakes and islands. Rent a boat or a houseboat, take the ranger's tour to the old Kettle Falls Hotel, or see the night sky, one of the best in the region.

Best Time
June–September
Time Needed
2–4 days
Cost Level
$$$$
Open
Check before you go; hours vary by season
Getting There
About five hours by car north of Minneapolis.

What to See

0 of 2 are free
1 day

Kettle Falls Hotel

A 1913 hotel on the water, reached only by boat.

3–5 days

Houseboating on Rainy Lake

A floating base with a small boat for exploring.

Know Before You Go

  • You'll want a boat. In winter, it's all ice roads and snowmobiles.

Where to Stay

Stay in International Falls or at a lake resort.

Where to Eat

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Last checked 2026-11-02. Part of the Midwest list.