5 Unforgettable Hikes To Take at Voyageurs National Park

By boat, canoe or kayak

If you love the outdoors, Voyageurs National Park is a must-visit destination. This park, which is located in northern Minnesota near the Canadian border, offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, fishing, and canoeing.

Established in 1975, the park is well known for its massive amounts of fresh water as well as its historical significance to the fur trade industry in the 18th and 19th centuries. 

Voyageurs National Park also sits in the Canadian Shield, a geological region known for its ancient bedrock and stunningly beautiful landscapes. The rocks here are estimated to be between one and three billion years old, making them the oldest on the North American continent.

Most of the park is only accessible using water transportation, making it a unique experience for hikers. So if you hit up one or all of these incredible trails, make sure you pack waterproof shoes. You can expect to get a little wet!

Sullivan Bay Trail

A picturesque view of Sullivan Bay is what awaits  you on this short out and back trail. Following the curves of Sullivan Bay, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife such as beavers, loons, and even moose in this heavily wooded area.

While the forest interior can be a bit damp and buggy, a massive flat rock outcropping near the end of the trail offers the perfect place to lay down, stretch out, and watch the waves.

Total Distance: 1.30 miles

Elevation Gain: 91.8 feet

Difficulty: Easy - Hiking, Walking

Route Type: Out & Back

Other Info:

• Bug spray is recommended on this trail.
• This trail takes place on an old decommissioned road.
• Rocks can be slippery after rainfall — hiking footwear is recommended.

Black Bay Beaver Pond Trail

Grab those paddles and head over to where the busy beavers love to show off their homes. The trail is often muddy and wet. For some areas, to make it easier to navigate, wear bigger hiking boots.

Keep your eyes peeled for an array of wildlife while on this trail. In addition to the industrious beavers, you may spot otters and turtles in the water. This trail also offers some great views of Black Bay, making it perfect for a sunset hike.

Total Distance: 1.18 miles

Elevation Gain: 75 feet

Difficulty: Easy - Hiking, Walking

Route Type: Out & Back

Other Info:

• No dogs allowed on this trail.
• Black flies nest in this area. High-resistance bug spray is recommended.
• There are some overgrown sections on this trail, so expect to do some light bushwacking.

Oberholtzer Trail

From gravel to tree roots and logs to hop over, this trail offers a bit of everything for hikers. The Oberholtzer Trail meanders through the forest, passing by multiple different views of the surrounding water and offering plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife.

While this trail is on the shorter side, it’s still great for a leisurely hike or even running. It can be a bit muddy in the springtime, but it’s worth it for the gorgeous views and tranquility this trail offers.

Total Distance: 1.67 miles

Elevation Gain: 75.4 feet

Difficulty: Easy - Hiking, Walking

Route Type: Out & Back

Other Info:

• Tree roots can sometimes be found in the middle of the trail head so watch your footing.
• Bug spray is recommended.
• Damp in certain areas on this trail.

Blind Ash Bay Trail

This is a great trail for those looking for a bit of solitude. The Blind Ash Bay Trail offers sweeping views of the surrounding water and forest, as well as multiple river crossings.

This trail is also a bit longer but offers plenty of opportunities for breaks to take in the view and listen to the sounds of nature. The red pine trees that litter this trail offer a gorgeous contrast with the blue waters of Voyageurs National Park.

Total Distance: 1.67 miles

Elevation Gain: 75.4 feet

Difficulty: Easy - Hiking, Walking

Route Type: Out & Back

Other Info:

• No dogs allowed on this trail.
• Bug spray is recommended.
• This trail is very narrow and will only accommodate one person in a single file line.

Kab-Ash Trail

Looking to explore all the landscapes that Voyageurs National Park offers? The Kab-Ash Trail is the perfect option for you. From hiking high above the treeline to winding through forests, this trail offers it all.

Get ready for a long and tedious hike that takes you from one side of the park to the other, passing through different ecosystems and offering plenty of chances for wildlife sightings. Bring some snacks and plenty of water for a day hike on this trail.

Total Distance: 27.8 miles

Elevation Gain: 1,502 feet

Difficulty: Hard - Hiking

Route Type: Point to Point

Other Info:

• This trail is only recommended for those with a high physical fitness level or experience in backwoods hiking.
• Black flies nest in this area. High-resistance bug spray is recommended.
• No dogs allowed on this trail.
• This is a full day hike and requires you to either start very early or bring flash lights if you finish late.

The fresh water paradise of Voyageurs National Park offers an array of breathtaking hikes, but these five trails are sure to leave a lasting impression.

From the tranquil views along the Oberholtzer Trail to the diverse landscapes found on the Kab-Ash Trail, Voyageurs National Park has something for every level of hiker. So grab your gear and hit the trails to experience the beauty of this national treasure.

Happy hiking!