Voyageurs National Park

Voyageurs National Park is a national park in northern Minnesota near the Canadian border. The landscape consists of many lakes and islands with rocky shorelines and forested areas accessible only by water.

The protected area was established in 1975 to preserve waterways used by traders since the 17th century. Before European arrival, indigenous communities lived here for thousands of years, fishing and trading along the lakes.

The name recalls the French fur traders who traveled here for centuries by canoe, transporting pelts along these waterways. Today visitors navigate the same routes by motorboat or kayak, experiencing the area from a perspective similar to that of the traders.

Nearly all areas require boat access, so planning ahead with launch sites and rental services is necessary. In winter the lakes freeze over, allowing ice fishing and snowmobiling, while summer is suited for canoeing and island camping.

The area is certified for viewing the night sky due to minimal light pollution. On clear nights the northern lights often dance over the lakes, especially in autumn and spring.

Location: Koochiching County

Location: St. Louis County

Inception: 1975

Operator: National Park Service

Website: https://nps.gov/voya

GPS coordinates: 48.50000,-92.88333

Latest update: December 12, 2025 00:34