5 Tips for Exploring Voyageurs National Park in the Winter
Situated in northeastern Minnesota, Voyageurs National Park is one of the least visited National Parks in the lower 48. This remote wilderness sees most of its visitors during the summer months thanks to its nearly endless boating options, but Voyageurs National Park truly comes alive once the snow falls and the temperatures drop! Bundle up and get ready for 5 tips that will make your winter journey to Voyageurs National Park one to remember!
The dense boreal forest of Voyageurs National Park
Layer up (then add more layers!)
Winter in Voyageurs National Park commonly brings below zero temperatures to the park. As there are very few indoor activities in the area, prepare for some extended time being exposed to the elements! Dress warm, and in layers! Use a tight fitting base layer, a warmer mid layer (or layers), and a waterproof/windproof outer layer. Additionally, don’t be afraid to have an extra layer or two in your pack!
Hiking through some deep snow along the Sullivan Bay Trail at Voyageurs National Park
2. All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Is Your Best Friend
When the temps drop at Voyageurs National Park, snow and ice cover every surface of this winter wonderland. Once the lakes freeze, the ice roads in the park allow for traffic on the lakes (always check with park rangers for ice thickness first!) which can provide an unforgettable experience! In addition to the ice roads, park roads are typically covered with snow, as well. Being out in this remote area means its best to be prepared to tackle these slippery surfaces with the right vehicle. Opt for the AWD upgrade at the rental counter, and leave the sports car at home!
Cross Country skiing through Voyageurs National Park
3. Embrace the Winter (Even if you don’t like the cold!)
If you are traveling to northeastern Minnesota in the winter hopefully you already know it’s going to be cold (like next-level cold!), so you might as well give yourself a chance to enjoy some truly unique winter experiences at Voyageurs National Park. Ice fishing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, hiking, and so much more! Voyageurs National Park is the perfect place to strap on those snowshoes or hang out in an ice hut for the first time! Dress for the weather, and try something new! You just might find that winter is your new favorite season thanks to Voyageurs National Park!
A snow covered Echo Bay Trail at Voyageurs National Park
4. Follow the Trail, Not the Tracks
Once the snow falls, the trails through the dense, boreal forest of Voyageurs National Park aren’t so obvious. Always be sure to do your best to follow the trail, and do not get caught up following some old footprints (human or animal) that may have ventured through the area before you! It’s easier than you think to get turned around amongst the pines and firs of Voyageurs National Park, which can make your 2 mile hike quickly turn into a 5 mile survival mission to get back to some warmth! Bring a map, follow trail signs, and a compass is always helpful while you enjoy this snowy oasis!
A stroll across Lake Kabetogama at Voyageurs National Park
5. Make the Visitors Center Your First Stop
Some of best features of Voyageurs National Park are on the ice covered lakes. As the thickness of the ice can vary in different regions of lake, always be sure to stop by one of Voyageurs National Park’s three visitors centers to check the condition of the lake ice. Park Rangers will be able to let you know if you can take a walk across the lakes, ice fish, snowmobile, and even take your car for a spin along the sprawling lakes of Voyageurs National Park. A quick stop in the visitors center is always better than a weekend in the hospital recovering from hypothermia from falling through thin ice!
