Plan for These Two Breathtaking October Weekends

Photo by Dan Schermerhorn

Odds are you'll take any excuse to take a short reprieve when October arrives. The newness of the school year wore off, and by then, the hustle and bustle of work and activities mount knowing an even busier holiday season looms around the bend.
 
An autumn break to Rainy Lake offers a unique splendor you deserve to experience. Two particular weekends come to mind: October 5-6 and October 19-20.
 
Changing Leaves: October 5-6
Nothing symbolizes fall more than leaves changing color, and the backdrop of Voyageur National Park provides a particularly gorgeous setting. While partial change begins in late September, the park reaches its peak during the weekend. Grab a light jacket, get on the water, and watch the ablaze foliage shimmer its spectrum of crimson and amber.
 
It's the time of year where the air crispens and wildlife begin their Minnesota goodbyes. See them before they leave for winter.
 
Orionid Meteor Shower: October 19-20
Late in the month, the remnants of Hailey's Comet explode through the sky off of the belt of the Orion constellation. Bundle up a bit, as temperatures will hover around freezing, or better yet, cozy up next to a loved one under a blanket and fix your eyes on the midnight sky. There's no need to pack a telescope or binoculars. Your naked eye is more than enough to see these interstellar ice shards vaulting their way through the darkness.
 
Experts predict the peak of the shower to happen on Monday or Tuesday if you can extend your visit, and you should. The light of the moon often masks the full meteor display, but in 2019, the lunar calendar predicts a three-quarter moon going into a dark, new moon. Less light. More magic.
 
Forget Friday Night Lights for one week and see natural wonders up close. You may even witness a more spectacular set of lights, the Northern Lights. Use our predictor tool to see what Aurora Borealis is up to during your visit.
 
September will come and go quicker than you think. Plan your mini vacation before it’s too late. We can help.