Most of us look forward to summer after long, Minnesota winters. We know, however, there are more than a few who yearn for the calmer, cooler, and bug-free solace of autumn.
 
In Rainy Lake, Ranier, International Falls, and Voyageur National Park, visitors benefit from fall weather that arrives sooner than the rest of the state. It's the start of a wonderful season for those seeking a slower pace.
 
Away from busy lake activity, our area experiences a serene sense of quiet save for the few hunters patiently waiting for the perfect shot on fowl.
 
Temperatures nestle in between 70 degrees around Labor Day and taper off to the low 60s by month's end. The natural splendor of the United States' only water-based national park fails to disappoint.
 
Plenty of wildlife continue to bask in the moderate temperatures. It's a perfect atmosphere for less-than-avid outdoors folk to hike, walk a trail, or take in a guided tour as humidity gives way to more refreshing air.
 
While there's always a quiet expanse to stake your claim for a stay, the start of fall sees even fewer tourists to interrupt your picturesque oasis.
 
Place yourself amid the signals of autumn this September. Plan a trip to our area. We'll help you get started on all this region has to offer.

Not only a destination for four-season fun, Rainy Lake is also a great place for the entire family to enjoy. Here are our top family-friendly recommendations:

Voyageurs National Park
The only national park in Minnesota, Voyageurs is more than 40 percent water, which means you’ll want to bring your own boat, rent one, or take a boat tour to fully experience the park’s rocky shores, sand beaches, abundant wildlife and verdant landscape. Reconnect the entire family with nature by hiking the park’s miles of well-marked trails or spend a night (or two) at one of the many well-appointed campgrounds. The park visitor center also offers opportunities for learning, discovering and interacting. Beginning in June and running throughout the summer, it provides programs and excursions, including a boat tour to Kettle Falls, where you can place one foot in the United States and the other in Canada.

One of the park’s most popular and immersive features is the chance to glimpse the life of the fur traders who explored the area more than 250 years ago. The park’s visitor center features wildlife and historical displays, as well as a movie about the Voyageurs. Visitors can also go on a canoe trip that traces the intrepid explorers’ footsteps, complete with paddling in time to traditional songs. Make sure your camera is photo-ready when you get to the visitor center; the giant moose inside is a selfie waiting to happen.

Plan Your Rainy Lake Vacation

Smokey Bear Park
 Another can’t-miss photo opp is the 26-foot tall statue of Smokey Bear and his two cubs, located adjacent to the International Falls City Square, at the corner of 3rd Street and 6th Avenue. The statue has been a community focal point since its arrival in 1954. Seasonally, he’s decked out with gigantic accessories such as hats and mittens in the winter and fishing vest and landing net in summer (To learn more about Smokey’s history, visit smokeybear.com). From International Falls, you can ride the Rainy Lake Bike Trail, which runs 12 miles from International Falls to Voyageurs National Park.