​Where to Snap a Sunset on Rainy Lake

Make a memorable ending to your day on Rainy Lake by catching a sunset at one of these easily-accessible sites. Before you go, check a weather app for sunset time and make sure your camera batteries are fully charged.

Voyageurs National Park Headquarters 
Located on Highway 11 just east of International Falls, this site faces northwest and provides a view of the Rainy River and the community of Fort Frances, Ontario, on the opposite shore. 

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In Ranier
Located about 3 miles east of International Falls, the community of Ranier welcomes visitors with a restaurant, bar, brew pub, ice cream shop and several opportunities to catch the sunset. The Ranier River dock has a unique view of the convergence of Rainy Lake and Rainy River, which flows briskly under the railway lift bridge. Located at the end of Ranier’s main street, the Spruce Street dock offers the chance for a leisurely stroll, as well as the chance to see spectacular sunset. When standing at the end of dock, you’ll notice a beach with another dock not far to your right, which is another great place to watch mother nature’s end-of-day light show. 

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City Beach
Located 3 miles east of International Falls on County Road 20, City Beach has 650 feet of sand beach on Rainy Lake, covered picnic pavilion, outdoor cooking grills, a floating swim platform, basketball and sand volleyball courts, a swing set and play area, camp sites, and a front-row seat for sunsets.

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Jackfish Bay Wayside Park
Continuing east on Highway 11, turn into the lot on the left just across the bridge and before County Road 103. Plan ahead in order to have time to walk the paved trail for a chance to catch glimpses of wildlife before the sunset. Bring your chairs and favorite beverages, as you will want to relax as you take in one of Rainy’s most photogenic sights. 

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Tilson Bay Wayside Park
Further east on Highway 11, Tilson Bay has a dock, boat launch and parking lot, as well as a trail used for both hiking and cross-country skiing. Those who take the trek are rewarded with a picture-perfect view from a high ridge. You can also watch the setting sun warm the colors of the bog on the south side of the bridge. 
If you have boat access, simply head onto the lake and face west for endless photo opps framed by deep blue water and rocky pine shores.  ​​

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