Voyageurs is in northern Minnesota at the Canadian border. The voyageurs were French-Canadian fur traders who settled in the area. Now, the area is popular among boaters and fishermen.
Minnesota
From North Dakota we headed to northern Minnesota to see Voyageurs National Park. On the way, we passed acres of sunflowers. Eventually we found a turnoff, barely large enough to fit our 63 feet of rig and jeep, near a sunflower field to capture this image.
The Pines of Kabetogama
We stayed at the Pines on Lake Kabetogama. They had full service and ok internet. The site layout was haphazard and seemed to have been drawn on a cocktail napkin at a local bar. But, we had scenic views of the lake.
One can never have enough fire hydrants. Jake loved all the options.
Voyageurs NP
The area is mostly only accessible by boat so we rented a 20 foot pontoon boat to explore it’s numerous islands and to have a relaxing day on the water. Even though the water was very smooth, Jake did not like the vibration of the engine under his feet. He’s a land dog.
There were a few Bald Eagles in the area, but difficult to get close to. We love telephoto camera lenses.
Ellsworth Rock Gardens, Voyageurs NP
Jack Ellsworth built the rock gardens between 1944 and 1966. He and his wife Elsie spent their summers on Lake Kabetogama building the gardens. The gardens are a unique retreat and picnic area with a dock.
Kettle Falls, Voyageurs NP
Kettle Falls isn’t a waterfall anymore. It was turned into a dam many years ago, but the name persists.
Kettle Falls Hotel opened in 1913 in the Boundary Waters Wilderness. The National Park Service acquired the hotel in 1976 and did extensive renovations. It’s a popular weekend getaway for many in the area and a fun boat stop along the lake.
We have been enjoying visiting America’s northern states that border Canada. It’s been so refreshing to know there are still beautiful unpopulated areas in the USA. Each small town we’ve come across has history, renovations, charm, and friendly people. We could easily understand why this is home to so many.
