Voyageurs National Park in Northern Minnesota is a stunning slice of American wilderness. The park is one third water, as vast lake and waterway features combine with midwestern wilderness to create a unique landscape that offers even more in the winter months.

Beyond the main gate and visitor center, there are no official roads. In the warmer months, visitors hike trails or navigate the park by small boat. In the winter things get really exciting, as cars are allowed on officially designated ice roads that allow you to push deeper into the park than you normally would be able to. The frozen landscape makes areas inaccessible during the spring, summer, and fall, wide open for family exploration. Winter Activities include ice fishing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing and cross country skiing. With miles of trails you could spend half a day having some fun, or settle in for a long winter stay and explore for days on end. The Rainy Lake Visitor Center offers free loaner snowshoes throughout the winter months, and at the end of your day you can retreat back for some warm drinks and a roaring fire. Make sure to stay late enough to enjoy the unique beauty of the Northern Lights for an experience your children will never forget.

Check the park’s guide to planning your visit for general information to help you get your vacation underway. You’ll also want to take note of Current Weather Conditions, as well as their Winter Ice & Trail Update for safety. Then note Fees and Passes before browsing their Family Activity Guide and you’ll be well on your way to an amazing vacation with the kids.

If you’d like to learn more, visit Voyageurs National Park’s Official Site.

Also check out our great info on other national parks in winter including: Bryce Canyon, Rocky Mountain, Yellowstone, Big Bend, Crater Lake, Sequoia, Everglades and the Grand Canyon.

Interested in booking or planning a vacation to Voyageurs right now? Check out some of the offers currently available for airfare and hotels at Kayak, Orbitz and Priceline. See more lodging options at Hotels.com and Hilton. Get started on your next trip today!

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