Winter activities in Voyageurs National Park

Winter activities in Voyageurs National Park

Voyageurs National Park in northern Minnesota is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts all year round. While summer activities such as boating and hiking are well known, the park offers a variety of winter activities that can be just as thrilling.

Here are some top things to do in Voyageurs National Park during winter:

Snowmobiling:

Voyageurs National Park is one of the best places to snowmobile in Minnesota. The park has over 110 miles of groomed snowmobile trails that wind through the park’s winter wonderland. Visitors can rent snowmobiles from local outfitters or bring their own and enjoy the park’s scenic trails.

Cross-country skiing:

The park’s winter landscape is perfect for cross-country skiing. The park has over 28 miles of groomed cross-country ski trails that wind through the park’s forests and frozen lakes. Visitors can bring their own skis or rent them from local outfitters.

Snowshoeing:

Snowshoeing is a great way to explore the park’s winter landscape. The park has over 10 miles of snowshoeing trails that lead through forests and across frozen lakes. Visitors can bring their own snowshoes or rent them from local outfitters.

Ice fishing:

Voyageurs National Park is a popular destination for ice fishing enthusiasts. The park has four major lakes, including Kabetogama, Namakan, Sand Point, and Crane Lake, that offer excellent ice fishing opportunities. Visitors can rent ice fishing equipment from local outfitters or bring their own.

Wildlife watching:

Although winter can be a challenging time for wildlife in the park, visitors can still see a variety of animals. Moose, wolves, and otters are just a few of the animals that can be seen during the winter months. Visitors should be prepared to bundle up and watch for wildlife from a distance.

Skating:

Visitors can skate on some of the park’s frozen lakes and ponds. The park does not maintain any skating rinks, so visitors should make sure the ice is safe before venturing out.

Snow tubing:

Visitors can enjoy snow tubing at the park’s Snowflake Nordic Ski Center. The center has several tubing hills and offers tube rentals for visitors.

Winter camping:

For those looking for a unique winter experience, Voyageurs National Park offers winter camping opportunities. Visitors can camp in designated areas and enjoy the park’s winter scenery. It is important to note that winter camping requires special gear and preparation, so visitors should be prepared for the colder temperatures.

Overall, Voyageurs National Park offers a wide range of winter activities for visitors to enjoy. From snowmobiling to winter camping, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this winter wonderland. So bundle up, pack your gear, and head to Voyageurs National Park for a winter adventure you won’t forget!