We started our road trip out of Minneapolis, MN, on a Friday and decided our first stop to be our college town, Bemidji!! This drive is less than 4 hours and is a scenic view with winding turns and small towns along the way. But BE CAREFUL going around these winding roads, you will either be faced with unexpected wildlife (lots of deer) or a traveler driving WAY under the speed limit. It is a local favorite to be stuck being these slow travelers as the one lane and winding roads make it difficult to pass. The best time to hit the road and explore Bemidji and the stunning Voyageurs area is during the fall season. The crowds of summer have dispersed, leaving behind an autumn wonderland. Witness the beauty of the fall foliage in breathtaking reds, yellows, and oranges. Plus, camping in the Voyageurs National Park during this time offers the chance to see the sought-after northern lights. Time is of the essence, as this magical season is short-lived in the coldest part of the continental U.S.

Before we get started, keep in mind that I created a list for you at the bottom of this blog! You will find a summary of our itinerary in Voyageurs National Park and a few hidden gems that you won't find on typical attraction lists. On top of that, I will share the wealth of saving money as Viator has helped us reserve our adventures around the National Park. For those who need to become more familiar with Viator, it is a Tripadvisor Company that has helped us strategically plan most of our travel itineraries. So what are you waiting for? Click the link to save money and discover your ideal travel itinerary!

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First Destination: Bemidji

Bemidji is the official first city on the Mississippi River and is home of the famous Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox. Bemidji is also a pioneer in advocating for our ecological systems, and you can be a part of the movement by exploring the area and learning about the environment. With its strong stance on pollution, this gem of a town leads the eco-friendly charge. And wait till you hear this: Bemidji University boasts a BEACH! So make the best decision ever – give yourself the gift of exploring this stunning gem. Explore, hike, bike, and swim your heart out! You won't regret it!

**Tourist Attractions**

Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox, rent a kayak or paddleboard at Lake Bemidji Beach, bike the 16-mile loop around Lake Bemidji State Park, attend a Bemidji Beaver Hockey Game, go fishing/hunting, and much more! **Close by: Itasca State Park**
**Top Restaurants**
209 Bar, CK Dudley’s, Fozzie’s, Tutto Bene, Mi Rancho, Bemidji Brewing, Rutgers, the Tavern, Green Mill, and more!

We stopped for a quick bite at 209 and a little nostalgia before heading out on our 2-hour journey on Highway 71 to reach our next destination, Voyageurs National Park. On this road trip through nature, you will witness the vibrant leaves and awe-inspiring landscapes surrounding you. Behold the complex ecosystem that sustains life, and marvel at the abundant rock and dense wood landscape that hugs the southern edge of the Candian Shield- a gigantic volcanic bedrock that forms the continent's core. Feel the excitement as you approach one of the few places in North America where you can see and touch rocks half the age of the Earth.

Second Destination: Voyageurs National Park

Discovering the water-based adventures and natural wonders at Voyageurs National Park is a must-do for nature enthusiasts and history buffs. With over 655 miles of shoreline and interconnected lakes, such as Rainy, Kabetogama, Namakan, and Sand Point, a boat or canoe is necessary to fully experience the park's scenic beauty. The initial proposal to establish the park dates back to 1891, a recognition of the need to protect this majestic land from industrialization. It took an additional 80 years before Congress officially authorized the park creation. In 1975, Voyageurs National Park was finally designated a national park, making it the 36th park in the United States. From stunning lake vistas to the area's rich historical significance, Voyageurs National Park is truly a one-of-a-kind experience.

**Know Before You Go**

It is imperative to not depend solely on cell phones while visiting the park, as cellular coverage is very intermittent. Our group experienced two days without any cell service at all. Furthermore, visitors are required to store food waste and cooking equipment in designated areas such as a vehicle, bear-proof locker, or hung at least 10 feet high and 10 feet away from a pole or tree to prevent any dangerous bear encounters. To stay safe, visitors should always carry bear spray.

So pack your bags and leave your car behind to set out on a water highway through the heart of the continent. And don't worry if you don't have a boat, there are plenty of options available. Rent a boat, canoe, kayak, or even a houseboat or schedule a boat tour. Public boat launch ramps are conveniently located at park visitor centers, Crane Lake ranger station, and the two-state forest campgrounds, Ash River and Woodenfrog. But, make sure to book in advance, especially for boat tours, to learn more about the complex ecosystems. If you're looking for a truly unforgettable experience, renting a houseboat for the ultimate weekend trip is highly recommended- wish we would of did that. It's a one-stop-shop for lodging and water transportation, providing unparalleled immersion into the natural beauty of the park. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to explore Voyageurs National Park, and let the water be your guide.

With over 240 boat-in sites, including houseboat sites and day-use areas, providing an unmatched sense of nature. Though you'll need water transportation for accessibility, it's well worth it! It's necessary to make a reservation and adhere to regulations required to experience this unique camping adventure fully, so act fast before they're booked! Understanding and following all state and federal boating regulations also ensures a safe visit. Remember that boaters must carry one PFD (personal flotation device) for each passenger, and all children under ten must wear them on board the vessel. You must also know where you are on the water because of international borders and check with Canadian and U.S. Customs before crossing. Lastly, bringing dry bags is essential to keep belongings like your wallet and phone dry in a wet park.

Once you have your campsite or houseboat set up for the weekend, it's time to start exploring! In order to make the most of your trip, I highly recommend scrolling down and checking out my top must-see attractions in order of my favorites.

See The Northern Lights

Head to the remote north woods for the most spectacular light show in the world, the northern lights! You can witness the northern lights in all their glory with almost no light pollution. It's a breathtaking sight as these lights dance in real time before your very eyes. Fall and winter are the best times to witness it, but you can catch it anytime if the conditions are right.

Kabetogama Lake Sunset

Spanning over 25,000 acres, this watery wonderland boasts some of the most stunning waterways in the world. And in the fall? It's simply magical. The autumn foliage is a sight to behold, with an explosion of colors, unlike anything you've ever seen. And make sure to take advantage of the sensational sunset, a bucket list item for many.

Hike the Locator Lake Trail

With stunning views and a moderate challenge, this 4.3-mile trek is perfect for hikers of all experience levels. Take on some of the park's only actual elevation gain of 400 feet and adventure through the park's lush wilderness.

Grassy Bay Cliffs

Come witness the magnificent granite cliffs rising over 125ft above Sand Point Lake in the southeastern part of the park. Draped in brilliant autumn hues of reds and yellows, these ridges form the perfect backdrop for a serene escape into nature. Take a step back in time and visualize the incredible rock formations dating back over 2.5 billion years ago.

Gold Portage

This area is a wildlife enthusiast's dream, with moose, bears, foxes, and even wolves calling it home. And if you need more than that, take a scenic .5-mile walk along the half-mile trail that connects Rainy Lake to Kabetogama Lake. Whether you're hiking, canoeing, or kayaking, this portage route is the perfect opportunity to explore the beauty of this park.

Ellsworth Rock Garden

Here, you'll see unique works of art made entirely of giant rocks, balanced together delicately by one man's hand - Jack Ellsworth. This devoted carpenter turned rock artist created these wonders over 20 years, starting from the 1940s. You'll be in awe of his creations' sheer talent and beauty.

Go Fishing

Cast your line and reel in some of the best native fish around for a tasty meal, or test your angling skills for a thrilling sport. Imagine cooking up your catch on a secluded island with nothing but nature's peaceful sounds. And even if you didn't catch anything, don't worry! The next destination in the heart of the park still has you covered with fuel and food for the rest of your adventure.

Kettle Falls

This historic hotel has welcomed visitors since 1913 and is located right in the heart of the park (only accessible by water). Surrounded by stunning natural scenery, this quirky hotel boasts historic charm and a slanted floor that's sure to put a smile on your face. Whether you're a lumberjack, a fisherman, or a tourist looking for adventure, the Kettle Falls Hotel is the perfect home base for your next excursion.

Watch wildlife by day and stars by night

As you can see, the vast land and water of over 215,000 acres at Voyageurs National Park provide infinite opportunities to pave your own adventure. With so many hideaway places to explore and discover, one could never feel bored or uninspired. Be it hiking in the woods, or swimming in the lake, the natural offerings of Voyageurs National Park are unparalleled and waiting to be explored. This tour guide aims to help you uncover these hidden treasures and create unforgettable memories. So pack your bags, grab your camera and join us on this journey of unearthing Voyageurs National Park and its hidden gems. When you go to Voyageurs National Park, don’t forget to share your discoveries with me on my Instagram page @heatherslucentdream and let me know what your favorites are!

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