Rainy Lake / Rainy River Area

Far North Minnesota

Northern Minnesota is an incredibly scenic region, especially around the Rainy River and Rainy Lake. The waters lie on the Minnesota-Canada border and are part of Voyageurs National Park.

International Falls is along the Rainy River, where you will find restaurants, hotels, stores, Falls Memorial Hospital, and International Falls Airport.

The city is known as the “Icebox of the Nation” because its winter temperatures are consistently the lowest in the joined 48 states.

Vast Expanse of Water

The Rainy River is a beautiful, pristine waterway that travels 85 miles along the US-Canada border. The natural environment flourishes with wildlife, so a boating or fishing trip will be exciting.

Spanning 228,000 acres, Rainy Lake is naturally an attraction for water sports of all kinds. The lake is filled with over 2,000 islands that feature sandy beaches and rocky overhangs.

There are many secluded spots around the lake where you will have complete privacy. You can venture south along Rat Root River to Rat Root Lake for more quiet boating.

Voyagers State Park

Voyageurs National Park is the perfect destination for any adventurer or nature-lover. Many residents of the lake are lucky enough to have it in their backyard.

The park spans 218,000 acres and offers 27 miles of trails. While hiking the forest, you can find hidden waterfalls and ancient rock formations.

It is one of the best places in the United States for viewing the northern lights. Sit by the lake to see the wavering colors reflect across the water.

Winter Fun

When the lakes freeze over, crews of snowmobilers get together to travel the area. Along with the lakes, Voyageurs offers 110 miles of snowmobiling trails.

Anglers can rent ice houses to fish atop the ice with comfort. In the woods, you might spot an owl, moose tracks, or slides made by an otter.

A Peaceful Retreat

The lakes, rivers, and forests of Northern Minnesota exude an intrinsic peacefulness that you will not find anywhere else.