Minnesota’s Only National Park Is Also The Best Place To See Beavers In The United States
Did you know Minnesota is home to one truly incredible national park? It’s easy to forget given the state’s other spectacular scenery. Our state parks cover many impressive landforms, our 10,000 lakes offer endless recreation, and our Boundary Waters is the most-visited wilderness area in the country. But Voyageurs National Park deserves some appreciation, too. Not only is it full of breathtaking scenery, but it also contains some incredible wildlife. In particular, the park is home to the densest population of beavers in the United States. Read more about the park and its population of furry critters below:
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Voyageurs National Park is a remote park in northern Minnesota. It receives around 240,000 visitors per year, making it one of the least-visited national parks in the United States.
Because of its water, fishing is a common activity at Voyageurs. The largest lakes - Kabetogama, Rainy, Sand Point, and Namakan - are especially popular. These lakes are home to many fish, including walleye, northern pike, yellow perch, and more.
Aside from fishing, many visit the park simply to take in the immense beauty of the vast park. Miles from civilization, the peace and quiet are unmatched.
A boat is a must at Voyageurs. Whether you bring your own, rent one, or stay in a houseboat, you won't be able to explore the park to its fullest without one.
Many also look out for beavers. The park happens to have the highest density of beavers of anywhere in the Lower 48, according to a 2019 Star Tribune article.
The thriving population of beavers makes elaborate dams in waters throughout Voyageurs National Park. They are typically nocturnal, so you may not get lucky enough to see one in person. But you'll likely spot plenty of evidence of their presence.
Regardless, these critters are at home in Voyageurs thanks to the park's clean waters and remote location. Plan a visit to the park to experience the beauty and peace for yourself!
Have you ever visited Voyageurs National Park? What did you think? For more information about planning a visit to the park, visit the Voyageur National Park page from the National Park Service. And if you’re looking for more remote wilderness areas to visit in Minnesota, check out our past article about the Boundary Waters.
Address: Voyageurs National Park, Kabetogama Township, MN 56669, USA
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Betsy is a Minneapolis-based writer who's lived in Minnesota for 20 years. If you know of any amazing Minnesota restaurants, nature areas, or other attractions, feel free to let her know about them at brathburn@onlyinyourstate.com or on Twitter @betsyrathburn.
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