Itinerary · 2 days · Minnesota
2 Days in Voyageurs National Park: The Perfect Itinerary
Two days is enough to see the best of Voyageurs National Park without rushing. Here is the day-by-day plan, built around the park's highlights.
Best time to go: Jul–Sep. Closest major airport: International Falls (INL), about 20 minutes.
Day 1: The icons
- Morning: Rent a houseboat for a few nights. Start early to beat the crowds.
- Afternoon: Take a boat tour to the Kettle Falls Hotel.
- Evening: Paddle to an island campsite.
Day 2: Go deeper
- Morning: Watch for the northern lights.
- Afternoon: Drive the winter ice road.
You'll need a boat to see most of the park. Join a ranger-led boat tour or rent one in summer.
When to go
The best time to visit Voyageurs National Park is July–September.
Questions
How many days do you need in Voyageurs National Park?
Two full days covers the highlights: rent a houseboat for a few nights and take a boat tour to the kettle falls hotel on day one, then watch for the northern lights on day two. Add a third day if you want a long backcountry hike or a slow morning.
When is the best time for this Voyageurs itinerary?
Go in Jul–Sep, when the park is rated at its best. January, February and July offer the best balance of good conditions and smaller crowds.
Can you do Voyageurs in one day?
You can see the highlights in one very full day by doing day one below and skipping day two, but you will miss watch for the northern lights. Two days is the sweet spot.