At NLRO, we provide a beautiful fall vacation spot for you or your group to simply unwind, escape from the hustle of everyday life, and enjoy the best Northern Minnesota has to offer. Here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of a fall trip to this breathtaking area.
As the leaves begin to turn and the air gets a crisp edge, Northern Minnesota transforms into an autumn paradise. With Voyageurs National Park and Lake Kabetogama at its heart, this region offers a fall getaway like no other.
Cozy Cabins and Lakeside Views
One of the best ways to experience the magic of fall in Northern Minnesota is by staying in a cozy cabin with stunning lake views. Imagine waking up to the serene sight of Lake Kabetogama, the water reflecting a kaleidoscope of fall colors. Here at Northern Lights Resort and Outfitters (NLRO), we offer private cabins that provide the perfect mix of comfort and immersion in nature. Every cabin offers a private campfire ring and most cabins also feature a fireplace. Snuggle up with a warm drink, a good book, and enjoy the tranquility of the season.
Fewer Bugs, More Peace
Fall is an ideal time to visit Voyageurs National Park and Lake Kabetogama because the bug population has significantly decreased. Say goodbye to pesky mosquitoes and black flies, which are more prevalent in the summer months. This means you can fully enjoy outdoor activities without constant swatting and itching. Plus, with schools back in session, the area is less crowded, offering a peaceful retreat into nature.
Stunning Fall Foliage
The fall colors around Voyageurs National Park are nothing short of spectacular with the lake-effect extending fall color into October. Unlike the North Shore, which primarily features Birch, Poplar, and conifers, the diverse mix of deciduous trees in this area prolongs the foliage season. From mid-September to mid-October, the forests explode in vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold. For the best views, consider taking a boat tour or hiking the various trails that offer panoramic vistas of this natural wonder.
Hygge and Campfires
Embrace the Scandinavian concept of hygge—creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with good people. Fall evenings in Northern Minnesota are perfect for gathering around a campfire. Roast marshmallows, share stories, and bask in the glow of the flames under a starlit sky. The darker, longer nights of fall also enhance stargazing experiences and increase the chance of seeing the aurora, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights dancing overhead.
Top Activities for a Fall Getaway – Create Your Own Autumn Adventure!
- Hiking: Explore the trails around Voyageurs National Park, such as the Beaver Pond Overlook and Blind Ash Bay trails near the Ash River Visitor Center. The cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage make hiking especially enjoyable this time of year.
- Boating: A boat tour on Lake Kabetogama is a must. Visit the Ellsworth Rock Gardens, Grassy Bay Cliffs, and Junction Bay Falls, where the fall colors are mirrored on the calm lake waters. If you enjoy paddling, our protected bay is a prime spot to kayak or canoe, and these boats are included free with your cabin stay.
- Fishing: Kabetogama fishing remains excellent in the fall. With the change of seasons the crappie circle-up, the bass are more playful, and the walleye bite becomes more fierce. Cast your line in the serene Kabetogama lake waters and enjoy the solitude and beauty of the surroundings.
- Wildlife Viewing: Fall is a great time for both birding and spotting wildlife. Head to Gold Portage to see moose, bears, and possibly even wolves. Let’s not forget our namesake, the beaver, that gave our National Park its name. French fur traders, called voyageurs, traveled the area to trade for beaver pelts with the Ojibwe tribe. The quieter fall environment increases your chances of encountering these magnificent creatures. The Voyageurs area is a top destination for wildlife photography in the fall and is a highlight for many touring Lake Kab.
- Bird Hunting: Nearly every Northwoods hunter that we’ve met, without hesitation, touts the ruffed grouse as their favorite bird to eat. Our guests love this big-bodied bird and the hunt through the changing colors of our north woods. NLRO pet-friendly cabins are ideal for bringing your hunting dog on vacation. For others, “bird hunting” is the enjoyment of spotting our feathered friends through the camera or binoculars! DYK? Voyageurs National Park is home to at least 240 species of birds and is a birders’ dreamscape in the fall. As the leaves fall the native birds, plus the arctic bird migration, are even easier to spot!
- Cedar Sauna: Beyond pleasure and relaxation, much evidence suggests that “sauna time” has many health benefits long known by Scandinavian culture. Guests enjoy easy access to the resort sauna (and some even enhance the experience by taking a cool plunge in Lake Kab and then warm-up in the sauna).
- Stargazing and Northern Lights: With longer nights and less light pollution, fall offers prime conditions for stargazing. Keep an eye on the aurora forecast for a chance to see the Northern Lights. Find the best aurora viewing in Minnesota that is predicted for 2024 and don’t hesitate to carve out time on your calendar, if this is on your bucket list.
Practical Tips for Planning Your Trip
- Check the Fall Color Finder: Use the Minnesota DNR’s Fall Color Finder to time your visit for peak foliage.
- Layer Up: Fall weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers to stay comfortable during the day and warm in the evenings.
- Book Early: Cabins and tours can fill up quickly during peak fall foliage season, so make your reservations in advance.
Whether you’re seeking solitude, adventure, or simply a break from the hustle and bustle, a fall getaway to Northern Minnesota’s Voyageurs National Park and Lake Kabetogama offers an unforgettable experience. Embrace the beauty of the season and create lasting memories in this northern paradise.
We invite you to come be our guests,
-Steve & Tracy Lindstrom, Owners