Voyageurs National Park is known for its water resources and is popular among enthusiasts of kayaking, canoeing, boating, and fishing. It has been described as "Minnesota's gift to America", and you'd agree after spending a weekend there. It is filled with a wide variety of wildlife, heritage, and exceptional natural beauty.
Before you leave for Voyageurs National Park, be sure to purchase travel insurance as a safety net against any unexpected (and potentially expensive) accidents, illnesses, injuries, or mishaps.
Trip Cancellation Insurance for Travelers in Voyageurs National Park - FAQs
Imagine planning a peaceful trip in the wilderness of Voyageurs National Park and then having to cancel it at the last minute. Not only does it ruin your mood, but you've also likely already invested your finances in advance preparations like airfare, lodging reservations, rental cars, and so on. What happens to these deposits (many of which are non-refundable) if you can't go? This is where trip cancellation insurance comes in handy.
Why should I get trip cancellation insurance for my Voyageurs National Park travel?
Life is unpredictable, and it never hurts to be prepared for the unexpected. Trip cancellation insurance can reimburse you the full amount of your prepaid, non-refundable expenses if you have to cancel your vacation for a reason covered under the policy. Be sure to review your plan's certificate wording before purchase for a full understanding of what scenarios would (and wouldn't) be covered. These will vary from plan to plan. But the most common reasons for cancellation, like getting sick or weather-related cancellations and delays, are usually covered under most standard plans.
What should I look for in my Voyageurs National Park trip cancellation insurance?
You can also review your travel insurance plan for benefits like the following:
- Trip cancellation coverage for a covered reason if you have to call off your trip before you leave
- Trip interruption coverage for a covered reason in case you have to leave early once you're already there
- Travel delay coverage
- Missed connection coverage
- Coverage for baggage loss or theft
With travel insurance, you have an extra layer of security against the unexpected. Again, be sure to review the fine print of your plan so you know what benefits are included.
5 Things to Do In Voyageurs National Park
Stargazing
Its secluded location allows a clear and spectacular view of the night sky. You can see elusive constellations and the Milky Way Galaxy. If you're lucky, you might get a chance to view the Northern Lights shining across the sky.
Hiking
If you're not a water sports fan, you can choose to explore the park by car or on foot. Echo Bay Trail is an easy hike that demands about 2 hours for a round trip. Grab your binoculars, and you may be able to catch a glimpse of the many warblers, woodpeckers, and other birds. Sullivan Bay, Oberholtzer, and Blind Ash are a few car-accessible hikes to keep in mind.
Boat Tours
Tours led by national park rangers offer 5 different cruises and a running commentary on the historical and cultural features of the park. Accompanying rangers point out wildlife and share their knowledge about various locations. The tour covers many of the highlights, including Kettle Falls, Ellsworth Rock Gardens, and Harry Oveson's Fish Camp. Book your tickets in advance, as the seating is limited and demand is far more.
Camping
Campsites are either front-country or backcountry. Campsites accessible by water are front-country, and those which require a combination of hiking and canoeing to reach are backcountry. Staying overnight at any campsite requires a permit. Each site offers amenities like fire rings, tent pads, picnic tables, and food lockers.
Visit the Kettle Falls Hotel
The Kettle Falls Hotel, built in the early 1900s, has been listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can stay overnight or make a day trip to enjoy lunch at the historic hotel. Access is only by boat from either Rainy Lake or Namakan Lake.
Key Guidelines for Travelers in Voyageurs National Park
Don't Drink Lake Water
All throughout the park, you will be surrounded by water, but this water isn't safe for drinking. Treat lake water before consumption. Use a high-quality water filter to remove potential contaminants. It's better if you carry your own water for drinking.
Cover Well
Hiking in the tall grass of the park can result in tick bites, which may lead to irritation and red skin. Apply insect repellent to avoid the black flies commonly found in July and August. The best defense against mosquitoes, flies, and ticks is simply to cover yourself well. Wear full sleeves and long pants.
Bring Your Maps
The park is in a remote and secluded area. You are likely to receive limited cell phone service at best. Download offline maps, or carry printed ones along with a compass to help navigate.
Watch Out for Bears
Voyageurs National Park is home to a population of about 150 black bears. Numerous reports of human-bear interaction have been found. These black bears are attracted toward food; hence, visitors are requested to dispose of food properly in sealed cans and bags as much as possible. Cooking should be done far away from the tent. If a bear approaches your site, do not offer it food. Stay still, and use bear spray only if they attack.
Pack Extra Layers
Lakes in the Voyageurs freeze in late November or early December. There are times when you cannot travel to the park due to thick or melting ice. Dress for the weather, but also carry extra layers to prevent hypothermia.
Before You Travel to Voyageurs National Park: Do This
- Check for your campsite permit and license. Camping requires a printed copy of the permit. You need a fishing license to fish. Also, book your seats for the boat tour in advance. There is a slim chance that you will get one at the last moment.
- Pack bug spray, download offline maps, and carry a compass along with other safety essentials.
- Be prepared, and buy adequate travel insurance coverage for you and your fellow travelers to enjoy peace of mind during your vacation.