plan your vacation in
Northern Minnesota!
There are many attractions to see and fun things to do year round throughout our area on land and water beginning with a visit to Voyageurs National Park. Voyageurs National Park was established because of the spectacular scenery, rich natural resources and vibrant history of this historic waterway. The Park Service offers regularly scheduled guided boat tours, canoe trips and much more at both the Rainy Lake and Kabetogama Visitor Centers.
From Snowmobiling to World Class Fishing--we're looking forward to seeing you in the Rainy Lake area soon! |
ATV & Snowmobiling
ATV & Snowmobiling
In season, ATV riders can explore forestry roads and trails from one end of the county to the other. In the winter, sledders will find hundreds of miles of groomed trails that can include the winter beauty and solitude of Rainy Lake, both from the frozen surface of the lake and overland portages. Hiking, Biking, Birding and More
Hiking, Biking, Birding and More
Hiking, biking, canoeing, kayaking are also some fun outdoor activities to enjoy. The area has also become a choice location for birding. Touring historic sites, enjoying scenic drives and golfing along Rainy River are also popular summer recreations. There are also several unique shops in the area for souvenirs, antiques. The Rainy Lake Recreation Trail follows the south shore of Rainy River and then Rainy Lake east from International Falls to the Rainy Lake visitor Center for Voyageurs National Park. The paved trail takes you through lakeside residential areas and forested highlands a distance of about 12 miles. World Class Fishing
World Class Fishing
Rainy Lake has long been a favorite Midwest fishing vacation spot for Walleye, Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike and Crappie. You can also fish Sturgeon on Rainy River. Because Rainy Lake and Rainy River are border waters there is an extended walleye season allowing for the latest season ice fishing on Rainy Lake and the earliest open water fishing on Rainy River. Canoeing and Kayaking
Canoeing & Kayaking
Our National Park is named Voyageurs in honor of the fur trade era laborers that paddled the water routes deep into North America. Exploring Voyageurs by canoe or kayak will bring you up-close and personal with the scenery and vibrant history of the Park. Camping
Camping
Voyageurs National Park allows tent camping on islands throughout the park and there are houseboat mooring sites as well. You are best off to contact the National Park Service regarding camping within the park, the Rainy Lake Visitor Center phone number is (218) 286-5258. Birding
Birding
The Rainy Lake and Voyageurs National Park area provide excellent opportunities for birders. Our widely varied habitat is within the flyways for hundreds of species of migrating birds. There are well adapted species that winter here as well. Hunting
Hunting
There are vast tracts of public land in Koochiching County with an extensive system of forestry roads that provide access to the public for hunting. Common big game hunts in our county are black bear and whitetail deer with archery and firearms seasons in the fall. Small game in our area generally involves grouse or squirrel hunting. Golfing
Golfing
Falls Country Club is an excellent 18-hole public golf course on the Rainy River just west of International Falls. The course was designed by Joel Goldstrand and offers challenges for every skill level. CROSSING THE BORDER
Crossing the Border
Why not make it a two-nation vacation while you are here. Fort Frances, Ontario, Canada is only separated from International Falls and Ranier by the width of the Rainy River. Please do visit our neighbors to the north, it is a distinctly different country where you will find the people friendly and the dining and shopping options truly different. TOURS
Tours Tour a Gold Mine or a Historic Hotel – Voyageurs National Park has a tour boat that can handle groups of up to 49 passengers, and offers some great destinations. Ride the Voyageur to Little American Island and you can hike interpretive trails with a ranger and see what remains of the biggest and best gold mine on Rainy Lake. |