10. Skiing – Voyageurs offers a plethora of great trails, many of which are accessible only by those who are willing to travel on the snow. If yours is a skiing family, a trip in the winter might be a good option.
9. Fishing – Another good option during the winter is ice fishing, so if you go at that time, there is more to do than just ski. During the summer, you can find a plethora of guides willing to take you and the kids. The one we used took care of everything for us, bait, poles, etc.; all we had to get was the fishing license.
8. Hiking – There are several great trails in Voyageurs. Some of the trails are only available by boat, but many are within a few minutes drive of the three Visitors Centers. There are several short overlook loops and several longer ones. I recommend bug spray and long pants.
7. Junior Ranger Packet – Our kids love doing the Junior Ranger Packets, and getting the badges. Even during COVID, you can usually get them mailed to you. I recommend printing up the packets from home, so that the kids can get started on the car ride up.
6. Canoeing/Kayaking – There are a few resorts that offer kayak rentals, and one or two guides. If your kids are older, you can take the boats out and explore the nearby coves on your own.
5. Vince Shute Bear Sanctuary – About an hour south of Voyageurs, and sanctuary for wild black bears. You take a boardwalk through the area and get within a few feet of several bears eating at their leisure. While it is not the same as coming across a bear in the wild (thankfully), it is more of a natural habitat than a zoo.
4. Ellsworth Rock Garden – Only accessible by boat, Mr. Ellsworth compiled an ornate garden with all sorts of interesting structures. The kids can ran around, climb and explore; it’s definitely something you should take the time to see within the park.
3. Kettle Falls – This is the only hotel within the park and is really cool to visit, even if you are not staying there. There is also an overlook onto a dam that goes between the US and Canada. I definitely recommend seeing this, as it is almost like going back in time.
2. Stargazing – At certain times of the year, the Northern Lights can be seen, usually a few hours after sunset. Even when the lights are not visible, the night sky is still a must see. There are not many places in America where the sky is as clear, and there is as little ambient light.
1. Boat Tour – This is the best way to see the park, if you want to see it all. We took a five hour tour that encompassed several different lakes and coves, it stopped at all the major attractions, and was just a fun way to spend half the day.
If you want more insights from our trip, please shoot me a message. One of the things that brings the most joy to my life and to my family is seeing these great National Parks, but sometimes is can be a challenge to find things to do with kids.