Voyageurs National Park Reservations, Boat Tours and North Canoe Programs Open April 15

Open-water season is right around the corner! One of the many ways to experience Voyageurs is booking a ranger-led boat tour. From leisurely lake cruises to immersive experiences in historic sites, there's a tour for every interest and age group.

Plus, experience NEW tours this year including the Anderson Bay Overlook Tour and Life on the Lake Tour. Reservations for ranger-led boat tours and North Canoe Voyage programs open at 9:00 am CST on April 15 for the 2024 season.

Tours departing from Rainy Lake Visitor Center

• Grand Tour (2.5 hrs) – Discover the wonders and beauty of Voyageurs. The captain will navigate Rainy Lake in search of abundant wildlife and breathtaking scenery while visitors hear stories about the rich cultural and historic significance of the park.

• NEW! Life on the Lake Tour (2.5 hrs) – Experience the Rainy Lake known by fishermen, loggers, gold miners, and trappers as you visit historic locations on the lake. You will be able to view gold mines and fish camps ashore, and learn about the diverse history of the area. Expect a short ranger-led hike, and plenty of scenic views.

• Stars Over Rainy (1.5 hrs) – Take a night-time cruise to learn about the dark skies over Voyageurs. The captain will navigate to a quiet spot to optimize dark sky viewing while a ranger helps visitors identify objects with the naked eye and talks about light pollution and what it means to be a dark sky certified park. There’s always a chance that the Northern Lights may dance for visitors on this tour!

• Kettle Falls Cruise (6.5 hrs) – Voyage to the historic Kettle Falls Hotel. This tour takes you on a cultural and natural history tour of the park. Spend 2.5 hours aboard the Voyageur getting to the hotel, and then spend 2 hours touring the hotel grounds and nearby dam. Finally, enjoy a 2-hour cruise on your return. Visitors can bring their own lunch or purchase a boxed lunch at the hotel.

• New! Anderson Bay Overlook Tour (6.5 hrs, a special event on September 3 only) – This special tour will bring passengers to parts of Voyageurs National Park that few get to see. Take a hike with a ranger into the wilderness and experience the stunning and iconic lake views from the Anderson Bay Loop trail. This excursion involves 2.5 miles of moderate to strenuous terrain, so come prepared with sturdy shoes and dress for the weather.

 Tours departing from Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center

• Ellsworth Rock Gardens (2.5 hrs) – Cruise through the west end of Kabetogama Lake and past Gold Portage hearing stories of the past while enroute to the Ellsworth Rock Gardens. At the gardens, join a park ranger for a ¼-mile tour of the unique rock sculptures, dry-stacked flower bed terraces, building remnants, and winding paths. The lower portion of the tour is accessible, and the upper portion requires sturdy shoes to traverse an expansive 60-foot granite outcropping.

 Tours departing from Ash River Visitor Center

• Kettle Falls Tour (5.5 hrs) – Voyage to the historic Kettle Falls Hotel. This tour takes you on a cultural and natural history tour of the park. Spend 2 hours aboard the Ne-Zho-Dain tour boat getting to the hotel. Upon arrival, spend 2 hours on land touring the site and nearby dam. Finally, enjoy a 1.5-hour cruise on your return route. Bring your own lunch or purchase a boxed lunch from the hotel restaurant.

• Life on the Lake Tour (2.5 hrs) – Travel into Namakan Lake to learn about the many inhabitants who called this beautiful, rugged, and sometimes harsh environment home year-round, and hear stories about the unique ways in which people have made their living in the wild of the Northwoods. Disembark at I.W. Stevens Island to walk among the old cabins and lodge from one of the earliest resorts, and visit Hoist Bay to explore this location's evolution from the logging days into the recreational era.

• Stars Over Namakan (1.5 hrs) – Take a night-time cruise to learn about the dark skies over Voyageurs. The captain will navigate to a quiet spot on Namakan Lake to optimize dark sky viewing as a ranger helps visitors identify objects with the naked eye, learn about light pollution, and discover what it means to be a dark sky certified park. There’s always a chance that the Northern Lights may dance for visitors on this tour!

 Special Interpretive Programs

The North Canoe Voyage is one of Voyageurs National Park’s longest standing and most unique educational experiences, which immerses visitors in an on-the-water living history lesson with costumed and spirited interpretive rangers. Paddle back in history aboard a 26-ft replica of a north canoe to learn the voyageur paddle salute, sing songs, and explore the adventurous life of a voyageur.

• Rainy Lake North Canoe Voyage departing from the Rainy Lake Visitor Center

• Ash River North Canoe Voyage departing from the Ash River Visitor Center

Park staff encourage visitors to make reservations as soon as they know their plans, as tours do tend to fill up. Visitors can view boat tour descriptions and schedules, and reserve their tickets, by going to recreation.gov’s Voyageurs National Park Tours page, while North Canoe Voyage program tickets can be reserved on the Special Interpretive Programs page. Tickets can also be purchased by contacting the National Call Center at (877) 444-6777. Walk-ins are allowed only if non-reserved space is available.

 Voyageurs National Park’s alternative transportation program is crucial for providing meaningful visitor experiences in a unique water-based park where much of the rich natural and cultural resources can only be viewed beyond where roads end. For visitors without a vessel, boat tours offer a way to experience the scenic and expansive waterways, abundant wildlife, ancient geologic formations, and remote visitor destination sites that are dedicated to sharing the park’s history and significance.

Fee revenue brought in from the transportation program allows these tours to be self-sustaining, covering costs for fuel, maintenance, and approximately 85% of the seasonal staff that conducts tours. This includes boat captains and deckhands to safely transport visitors, and knowledgeable interpretive rangers to provide engaging programs. Similarly, revenue from the Special Interpretive Programs helps cover costs involved with offering these unique visitor services.

View this and other Voyageurs National Park press releases here.

Introducing Matt Nielsen: Development Director

Voyageurs Conservancy is excited to welcome Matt Nielsen as the organization’s Development Director

Hello there! I'm Matt Nielsen and am thrilled to join you all in the work of the Voyageurs Conservancy as its new Director of Development. As a relationship driven development guy with a passion for wild places, environmental education, and the relationships needed to ensure their success I can’t wait to achieve ambitious goals with each of you in the months and years to come.

I was a lucky kid growing up and had both the people and places necessary to create a lifelong passion for the work ahead. Years at the family cabin, countless trips camping on the rocky ledges of the border lakes, coupled with years spent honing my skills in fundraising align both personal and professional passion for the mission of Voyageurs Conservancy. 

Professionally, I'm grateful to have led fundraising efforts at some of the region's leading arts, education and environmental organizations including Hennepin Theater Trust, The University of Minnesota’s Weisman Art Museum, the Bell Museum of Natural History, the Minnesota Zoo, and St. Olaf College’s School Nature Area Project–my alma mater where I received a BA in Environmental Studies. At each, my interest in building strong relationships resulted in impactful annual and capital campaigns,  countless meaningful conversations with stakeholders, innovative strategies to expand and strengthen networks, and powerful events which all contributed to important advances in environmental conservation, education, science, and recreation. Voyageurs Conservancy's commitment to each of these aligns perfectly with my values, and I'm eager to bring my skills to the table in support of a mission we all hold close.

In my downtime, you'll usually find me on a trail or on the water somewhere and occasionally getting my hands dirty in the garden at my home north of Duluth MN. I love experiencing wild places here at home and around the world. My favorite, of course, are endless hours exploring the land of rocks and water of our own backyard.

Joining the Voyageurs Conservancy is a blessing--I can't wait to join a community of people who love Voyageurs and are committed to its stewardship. I look forward to embarking on this exciting journey together!

April 2024 Night Sky Calendar

The winter spangle of bright luminaries is tipping to the west, replaced by a more modest crew of spring stars — Leo the Lion, standing high in the southern sky around 9:30 p.m. local time at mid-month; Hydra the Water Snake, the biggest of the 88 constellations; Boötes the Herdsman with its flashing, ruby-like star Arcturus, and the distinctive trapezoidal figure of Corvus the Crow.

April Constellations - South

Download the free Stellarium Mobile app for Android and iPhone to help you find these constellations and many others. Just do a Google search then install the app, set it in night mode (red screen) and point your phone skyward.

There are two excellent close conjunctions this month involving Mars and more distant planets. Jupiter lingers in the western sky, visible at dusk and early nightfall until it disappears in the twilight glow at month’s end. Thereafter, the evening sky will be absent any bright, easily-findable planets until Saturn rises before midnight in early July.

The April 8 total solar eclipse is the month’s most anticipated event. Some of you have already made plans to travel to the path of totality, where the moon will cover sun for up to 4 ½ minutes. Total eclipse will only occur along a narrow, approximately 115-mile-wide swath extending from Mexico, through Texas northeast to Maine and the Canadian Maritime provinces.

Those not in the path, which includes most of North and Central America, will witness a partial eclipse. Where I live in Duluth, Minnesota, the moon will cover 71 percent of the sun at maximum at 2:05 p.m. CDT.

Events (a.m. indicates the event happens in the early morning sky):

April 1 – Last quarter moon. Rises about 1 a.m. local time and stands due south around sunrise.

April 6 (a.m.) – Very thin lunar crescent triples up with Mars and Saturn low in the eastern sky at dawn. Bring binoculars!

April 1-15 – Best and last time to spot Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks before bright evening twilight gobbles it up. Although the comet will be low in the western sky it passes near Jupiter, making it relatively easy to find. It should reach 4th magnitude and be visible in ordinary binoculars. I’ll post a finder map at facebook.com/astrobobking at the start of the month.

Path of totality - April 8, 2024

April 8 – New moon, total solar eclipse. To find eclipse times for your location go to timeanddate.com/eclipse/map/2024-april-8. Zoom into the map, spot your city and click it. You’ll also see what percentage of the sun will be covered, called obscuration.

April 10 and 11 (a.m.) Saturn slides under Mars in a very close conjunction. On both mornings the two planets will be just a half- degree apart! Look low in the east about an hour before sunrise. Binoculars will make for a clearer, brighter view.

April 10 – Thin crescent moon shines above Jupiter and below the Pleiades in the western sky at nightfall.

April 14 – Thick crescent moon hangs directly below and equidistant from Gemini’s brightest stars, Pollux (above and left of the moon) and Castor (above and to its right).

April 15 – First quarter moon. Stands nearly due south at sunset and sets around 1 a.m. local time.

April 22 – Nearly full moon shines very close to Virgo’s brightest star Spica — only about a half-degree to its left.

April 23 – Full Pink Moon, named for the early spring wildflower moss pink. To see the moonrise, check your local rising time at timeanddate.com/moon

April 29 (a.m.) – Rare opportunity to spot Mars in a small telescope and see Neptune at the same time. The two will be only a fifth of a degree apart in twilight. I’ll post a chart at facebook.com/astrobobking to help you identify Neptune as we get closer to the date.

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Bob King is an amateur astronomer, author, and passionate educator. He served as a photographer and photo editor at the Duluth News Tribune for 39 years and taught at the UMD planetarium. Bob’s work had a great impact on Voyageurs National Park. To achieve International Dark Sky Park certification, the park was required to host dark sky education events. Through the Night Sky Explorer webinars, the Conservancy was able to fulfill this component and help secure the certification for Voyageurs National Park. We can’t thank Bob King enough for sharing his talents and knowledge with the Conservancy community to support dark sky preservation.

Voyageurs National Park - Spring Visitor Center Hours of Operation

INTERNATIONAL FALLS, MN: Voyageurs National Park Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center will be closed beginning on Sunday, March 31 and Rainy Lake Visitor Center will be closed beginning on Monday, April 1.

Visitor center operations will potentially resume weekends in May starting with Minnesota’s fishing opener, the second weekend of the month. Be sure to check nps.gov/voya for schedule confirmation in May.

The Rainy Lake Visitor Center, Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center, and Ash River Visitor Center will all reopen full-time for the open water season beginning Memorial weekend on Friday May 24.  All 3 visitor centers will then remain open 7 days a week from 9 am to 5 pm through September.

Voyageurs National Park staff encourages you to come and explore the park this spring. The park is open regardless of visitor center hours. Come and enjoy the Northwoods.

The Myth of the Lone Wolf: Navigating the Wilderness of Dispersal

Written by Maeve Rogers, Wolf Predation & Research Technician

Have you ever been called a 'lone wolf'? Some wear it as a badge of honor, while others may see it as a label for those who prefer solitude. However, the term "lone wolf" often carries negative connotations in human society. It's true that in human societies, we often use the term ‘lone wolf’ to describe individuals who are perceived as unsocial, eccentric, or possibly even threatening. None of these associations are inherently positive and may cast a shadow of negativity on the brief solitary nature of wolves. 

But what if being a lone wolf meant more than just a personality trait? In the wild, it can be the difference between life and death.

The Natural Cycle of Dispersal in Wolf Packs

Wolves, renowned for their highly social nature, thrive in complex pack structures typically led by a breeding pair and their offspring. However, there comes a time when everyone must venture out on their own, and wolves are no exception to this rule of nature. This period known as “dispersal” marks a pivotal and perilous chapter in a wild wolf's life. Dispersal is defined as the permanent movement of an individual wolf from one pack’s territory to a new territory - typically to find mates and form new packs! Dispersing individuals are often leaving their natal habitat, which is the place in which they were born. Other times, older adult wolves may disperse if their territory was taken over by a new pack or a mate died. When animals disperse, they're usually on the lookout for a mate or better resources like food and space. The primary motivation behind these departures is believed to be intense competition for food within the pack. In other words, wolves often choose to leave their packs and become solitary hunters because they seek better opportunities elsewhere. Interestingly enough, not many wolves survive this challenging life stage and mortality rates are known to be high but still relatively understudied in most areas. 

Maeve Rogers, Wolf Predation & Research Technician, collecting data from wolf P3S. Credit: Voyageurs Wolf Project

Biologists have been studying wolf dispersal movements for a while, often using devices like GPS (Global Positioning System) or VHF (Very High Frequency) also known as ‘pulse’ collars. Through these methods, some fascinating things have been discovered. There have been a few observations of wolves from the same family or group traveling crazy distances—over 100-300 kilometers—and ending up settling near each other again. It's like they have a secret rendezvous point!

Even more intriguing, biologists think there might be a hidden pattern behind these journeys. It could be something in their genes or maybe they learn from each other about where to go. Imagine if your family members always ended up moving to the same neighborhood, even if you didn't plan it! Thanks to modern GPS technology, scientists today can track these wolf travels better than ever before. This technology lets them peek into the intricate strategies and patterns behind long-distance wolf dispersals. Who knows what other secrets of the wild these wildlife tracking technologies will unveil next?

Case Studies: Dispersal in Wolf Packs

So how far do wolves travel in a typical day or during dispersal? Well, in short, it can depend on many different factors. For example, one wolf collared and studied by the Voyageurs Wolf Project gave researchers a great example of the long-distance journey wolf dispersal can become. Wolf V057, originally dispersed nearby Voyageurs National Park northwards to Red Lake, Ontario in 2018. Wolf V057’s GPS tracking collar showed biologists that he covered some significant ground in a fairly short amount of time. As shown in the graphs below, V057's journey was extensive. If we were to assume a consistent average distance traveled per day for this wolf, which would be approximately 10.9 miles, V057 would have traversed an impressive 3,978 miles within a single calendar year! Covering an average of 10-11 miles daily is suspected not to be uncommon for many individual wolves.

Graphs of wolf V052’s travel data. Credit: Voyageurs Wolf Project

On the other hand, the Voyageurs Wolf Project documented a wolf dispersing just a few short miles to stake out a new territory essentially bordering her natal habitat. The project initially collared V052 as a 1-2 year old female in the Sheep Ranch Pack back in 2016. Unfortunately, her collar failed that fall and the last sighting of her dates back to late October 2016. After 5 years of absence, Wolf V052 reemerged in the spring of 2021 thanks to a stroke of good luck and some fortuitous trail camera captures! This discovery is particularly remarkable considering that five years is considered to be a long lifespan for a wild wolf, as most wolves don't exceed five years let alone much longer than one to three years of age.

It quickly became apparent that wolf V052 was part of a newly identified pack, which was named the Bluebird Lake Pack. This pack occupied the region east of the Huron Pack and south of the Wiyapka Lake Pack, and V052 served as the breeding female. Therefore, wolf V052 dispersed from the Sheep Ranch Pack to later become the breeding female of the Bluebird Lake Pack sometime between late 2016 and 2021. Little did researchers know that their paths would cross again 6 years later when the project was able to recapture wolf V052 in the summer of 2022. It was necessary to replace V052's green ear-tags as it seemed like the pups or other wolves chewed off the ends. Nevertheless, the tags fulfilled their purpose, enabling researchers to identify her six years later. Her new ear-tags were purple, and she then became known as wolf P3S.

Wolf V052 (P3S). Credit: Voyageurs Wolf Project

Later that winter, P3S (V052) and her mate P0C were killed by a rival pack that dispersed into their territory. Although very unfortunate to lose two important breeding animals, it gave the project an opportunity to collect data on pack turnover and interactions between dispersing wolves and a highly established pack.

Biologists estimate that approximately ~15-20% of any wolf populations consist of lone wolves, which constitutes a significant portion! These lone wolves are typically young, aged between 1 to 3 years old, who have departed from their birth pack in pursuit of establishing their territory and finding a mate. Nevertheless, the age range can vary as older and more experienced wolves might also find themselves in search of new territory and a mate. Events like this can occur often in areas where “pack turnover” is high. Pack turnover is when an existing pack in a territory is replaced by a new pack that takes over that territory often by outcompeting or eliminating the existing wolves. In northern Minnesota near Voyageurs National Park, during pack turnover or the formation of a new pack, it's common for only a breeding pair (comprising just 2 wolves) to assume control of or inhabit the territory. 

Wolf V052 (P3S). Credit: Voyageurs Wolf Project

Many wolves that eventually reproduce or live a long life, typically around 8-10 years, will have spent a period of time in solitude as lone wolves. In fact, it's quite rare for wolves to assume the role of breeding or dominant wolves without first venturing out on their own. In essence, leaving the pack is kind of like a prerequisite for wolves seeking mates and producing offspring. The dispersal of wolves from their packs and their subsequent pairing with mates from other territories contribute positively to wolf populations. This behavior helps prevent inbreeding and promotes genetic diversity. Lone wolves have the opportunity to find mates unrelated to them, thereby enriching the gene pool. Without wolves leaving their packs, the risk of perpetual inbreeding would be a real problem. Wolf packs primarily consist of family members, which increases the likelihood of continual mating among closely related individuals. This scenario would pose significant threats to the overall health and sustainability of wolf populations.

Embracing the Lone Wolf Mentality

Graphic by Maeve Rogers

Being a lone wolf does have its perils. Indeed, lone wolves typically are at a higher risk of death because they are wandering through unknown terrain where they are often trespassing on another pack’s territory or traveling near human infrastructure where they are at a higher risk of getting killed. But all-in-all, this risky life-stage is one that most wolves will face if they live long enough, and it is through this process that wolves find mates, new packs form, and wolf populations persist.

In summary, though, there is nothing sad or concerning about being a lone wolf and choosing to roam in solitude. It is a natural part of their behavior and crucial for maintaining a healthy balance within wolf populations. In nature, a wolf venturing alone is natural and beneficial for wolf populations. It's not an act of isolation or rejection. Rather, it is a display of independence and adaptability crucial for genetic diversity and territory expansion. For wolf populations, the presence of lone wolves is essential for genetic diversity and the dispersal of individuals across different habitats. Solo wolves play a vital role in expanding the range of wolf territories and preventing inbreeding within packs.

Winter Trails Report 3/7/2024

At this time all snowmobile trails and ice roads in the park have been closed, and stakes have been removed. Ice conditions near pressure ridges, sand bars, and shorelines are dangerous, please take extra caution if you are in these areas. Park staff will be no longer monitoring ice this season. This has been a particularly challenging winter season for travel on the ice, and we appreciate the patience and good judgment our visitors and local community members have shown. We are hoping for a safe, cold, and snowy winter next year!

Snowmobile Trails:
International Falls to Kettle Falls (Purple Trail) - Closed Not Staked
Rainy Lake/Black Bay to Kabetogama Lake to Ash River (Green Trail) - Closed Not Staked
Ash River to Crane Lake (Green Trail) - Closed Not Staked
Chain of Lakes (Dashed Black Trail) - Closed Not Staked
Ash River to Kettle Falls (Yellow Trail) - Closed Not Staked
East Namakan Lake to Sand Point Lake (Blue Trail) - Closed Not Staked

Ice Roads:
Rainy Lake Ice Road - Closed
Rainy Lake Dryweed Loop - Closed
Kabetogama Lake Ice Road - Closed
Kabetogama Lake Ice Road West and East Spur Roads - Closed

Ski Trails:
Kabetogama Area:
Echo Bay Ski Trail - Packed not tracked
Rainy Lake Area:
Rainy Lake Rec Trail - Packed not tracked
Black Bay Ski Trail - Closed
Tilson Connector Trail - Closed

Snowshoe Trails: Hiking allowed on trails
Rainy Lake Area:
Rainy Lake Recreation Trail - Open
Oberholtzer Trail - Open
Black Bay Beaver Pond Trail - Closed
Ash River Area:
KabAsh Trail - Open
Blind Ash Bay Trail - Open
Sullivan Bay Trail - Open

Kabetogama Lake Recreation Area:
Sledding Hill - Closed
Ice Rink - Closed

For further information on land trails in communities surrounding the park check out these links:

Voyageur Trail Society - Trail Updates Voyageur Trail Society - Trail Updates (snowmobilevacation.org)
Trail Report http://www.ridetheborders.com/trail-report.html

Snow Depth and Groomed Trail Conditions | Minnesota DNR Snow Depth and Groomed Trail Conditions | Minnesota DNR (state.mn.us)

Buyck Portageurs Snowmobile Club https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057218389432

Ash River Kabetogama Snowdrifters - Ash River Kabetogama Snowdrifters Snowmobile Club. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068157102512

Polar Polers Ski Club: Polar Polers | International Falls MN | Facebook

Winter Trails Report 2/29/2024

Pressure ridges with areas of open water have formed in several places near park snowmobile trails, with a major ridge intersecting the trail at the west end of Kabetogama. With the recent warming and cooling trends, with temps well above freezing, maintenance on trails has been suspended and stakes are being removed from trails. The recent snow has been welcome, but gusting winds have blown much of the snow into drifts. Warm weather in the coming days will reduce snow cover to minimal amounts, especially on land-based portages. If you travel on the lakes, use caution while riding around shorelines and in shallow water areas around sand bars, as ice can be much thinner than expected.

We encourage everyone to remember that ice is never 100% safe. Be aware of conditions and ride in response to them.  Our winter trails conditions can always be found on our website: Alerts & Conditions - Voyageurs National Park (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)

Snowmobile Trails:
International Falls to Kettle Falls (Purple Trail) - Closed Not Staked
Rainy Lake/Black Bay to Kabetogama Lake to Ash River (Green Trail) - Closed Not Staked
Ash River to Crane Lake (Green Trail) - Closed Not Staked
Chain of Lakes (Dashed Black Trail) - Closed Not Staked
Ash River to Kettle Falls (Yellow Trail) - Closed Not Staked
East Namakan Lake to Sand Point Lake (Blue Trail) - Closed Not Staked

Ice Roads:
Rainy Lake Ice Road - Closed
Rainy Lake Dryweed Loop - Closed
Kabetogama Lake Ice Road - Closed
Kabetogama Lake Ice Road West and East Spur Roads - Closed

Ski Trails:
Kabetogama Area:
Echo Bay Ski Trail - Packed not tracked
Rainy Lake Area:
Rainy Lake Rec Trail - Packed not tracked
Black Bay Ski Trail - Closed
Tilson Connector Trail - Closed

Snowshoe Trails: Hiking allowed on trails
Rainy Lake Area:
Rainy Lake Recreation Trail - Open
Oberholtzer Trail - Open
Black Bay Beaver Pond Trail - Closed
Ash River Area:
KabAsh Trail - Open
Blind Ash Bay Trail - Open
Sullivan Bay Trail - Open

Kabetogama Lake Recreation Area:
Sledding Hill - Closed
Ice Rink - Closed

For further information on land trails in communities surrounding the park check out these links:
Voyageur Trail Society - Trail Updates Voyageur Trail Society - Trail Updates (snowmobilevacation.org)
Trail Report http://www.ridetheborders.com/trail-report.html
Snow Depth and Groomed Trail Conditions | Minnesota DNR Snow Depth and Groomed Trail Conditions | Minnesota DNR (state.mn.us)
Buyck Portageurs Snowmobile Club https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057218389432
Ash River Kabetogama Snowdrifters - Ash River Kabetogama Snowdrifters Snowmobile Club. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068157102512
Polar Polers Ski Club: Polar Polers | International Falls MN | Facebook

Pressure ridge and open water on Namakan Lake near the green trail. 

Photo credit: NPS Photo/J. Christenson

Open water on Namakan Lake near Pike Bay along the green trail. 

Photo credit: NPS Photo/J. Christenson

March 2024 Night Sky Calendar

If you’ve followed this column this season, you’re already familiar with the Winter Hexagon, a six-sided pattern of bright stars centered on Orion the Hunter. In March the figure finally tilts into the southwestern sky as two early-spring luminaries take its place in the eastern sky — Regulus in Leo the Lion and Arcturus in Boötes the Herdsman.

Regulus shines above halfway up in the east around 8 p.m. local time at mid-month. It’s the only bright star visible in that direction at that hour. Orangey-red Arcturus, an even brighter star, makes it appearance around 10 p.m. low in the northeast. To find it just follow the arc of the Big Dipper’s handle downward and you’ll run right into it — arc to Arcturus, as we say.

Jupiter is still the only bright nighttime planet and dominates the southwestern sky at nightfall. At mid-month it sets about 2 hours after evening twilight ends. During the second half of March, Mercury pops out of the solar glare and makes its best evening appearance of the year at dusk.

Venus is very low in the southeastern sky at dawn as the month opens and then disappears in the twilight glow. Mars remains stuck in morning twilight all month and very low in the southeastern sky. You’ll need binoculars for a good look.

Special events in March include a comet visit and a lunar penumbral eclipse. Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks will be visible in 7x35 or 10x50 binoculars (or similar) from a reasonably dark location at the end of evening twilight low in the northwestern sky. You should see a fuzzy blob — that’s the comet’s head — with a short tail pointing back to the east.

During a penumbral eclipse the moon passes through Earth’s outer shadow called the penumbra so its “bite” isn’t as dark and obvious. Still, this eclipse will be a deep one with 96 percent of the moon engulfed in the penumbra, making the shadow easy to spot especially around the time of greatest eclipse. Would that it would happen at a more convenient hour!

(Stargazing tip: To help you find stars and constellations, download the free Stellarium Mobile app for Android and iPhone. Just do a Google search then install the app, set it in night mode (red screen) and point your phone skyward.)

Events (a.m. indicates the event happens in the early morning sky):

March 1-15 – Best time to spot Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks before moonlight interferes. The “P” stands for periodic, meaning this is a returning comet. Its last visit was in 1954. I’ll post a finder map on Facebook (facebook.com/astrobobking ) at the start of the month.

March 3 (a.m.) – Last quarter moon. Watch for it to rise around 1:30 a.m. right next to the bright, red star Antares in Scorpius. Observers in the southeastern U.S. will see the moon occult (hide) the star, while Midwesterners can watch Antares emerge from behind the moon’s dark edge at or just after moonrise. More details in my Facebook and here: lunar-occultations.com/iota/bstar/0303zc2366.htm

March 8 – Super-thin crescent moon forms a compact triangle with Venus and Mars very low in the southeastern sky a half-hour before sunrise. A nice triple gathering and probably the last time to spot Venus in the morning. Too low for northern U.S. observers but visible from the southern third of the country. Use binoculars. Find your local sunrise time at timeanddate.com/sun/

March 10 – New Moon. The moon lies in the same direction as the sun and is not visible. Today also marks the start of Daylight Saving Time. Move clocks ahead 1 hour.

March 12-31 – The International Space Station (ISS) makes evening passes for northern mid-latitude viewers. Check spotthestation.nasa.gov/ for local times of its appearance.

March 13 – Crescent moon and Jupiter in conjunction just 3 degrees apart. Look for the pair in the western sky at dusk.

March 14 – Crescent moon hangs just 1.5 degrees below the Pleiades or Seven Sister star cluster in the western sky at nightfall. A fabulous sight in binoculars!

March (mid-month) – Brightest star Sirius due south at the end of dusk. Best twinkling star! When the air is especially turbulent Sirius twinkles in color, a sight further enhanced in binoculars.

March 15-31 – Mercury makes a great appearance low in the western sky at dusk. Look for a solitary bright star about 45 minutes to an hour after sunset. Find your local sunset time at timeanddate.com/sun/ to help plan your viewing session.

March 16 – First quarter moon. Stands high in the southern sky around sunset.

March 18 – Waxing gibbous moon just 3 degrees below the bright star Pollux in Gemini the Twins.

March 19 – Start of spring at 10:06 p.m. CDT. Day and night length are nearly equal across the planet.

March 21 – Waxing gibbous moon shines about 4 degrees north of Regulus, Leo the Lion’s brightest star.

March 24-25 (a.m.) – Full Worm Moon. The moon will rise to the east in Virgo around sunset. Find your local moonrise time at timeanddate.com/moon. We’ll also witness a penumbral eclipse overnight. The times below are Central Daylight viewing — add an hour for Eastern, subtract one hour for Mountain and two hours for Pacific times:

First obvious sign of the moon in penumbra — around 12:30 a.m. CDT (March 25) Greatest eclipse / deepest in shadow — 2:13 a.m. CDT Eclipse ends — 4:32 a.m. CDT

March 27-31 – Best nights to see the zodiacal light, a tapering, cone-shaped dust cloud that begins at the western horizon and reaches to nearly the top of the sky. Composed of comet, asteroid and Mars dust, the pancake-like cloud lies in the plane of the solar system. Best viewing time is 2 hours after sunset.

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Bob King is an amateur astronomer, author, and passionate educator. He served as a photographer and photo editor at the Duluth News Tribune for 39 years and taught at the UMD planetarium. Bob’s work had a great impact on Voyageurs National Park. To achieve International Dark Sky Park certification, the park was required to host dark sky education events. Through the Night Sky Explorer webinars, the Conservancy was able to fulfill this component and help secure the certification for Voyageurs National Park. We can’t thank Bob King enough for sharing his talents and knowledge with the Conservancy community to support dark sky preservation.

Winter Trails Report 2/22/2024

The green trail is open but be alert for pressure ridges. They are continuing to be observed on the frozen lakes, with standing water frequently found nearby. Land portages have lost much of their snow cover and can be slow. Adequate snow to provide lubrication for snowmobiles may be limited, so be prepared for less-than-ideal conditions if you travel in the park. Use caution while riding around shorelines and in shallow water areas around sand bars, as ice can be much thinner than expected. We encourage everyone to remember that ice is never 100% safe. Be aware of conditions and ride in response to them.

You can find the most current winter trails conditions on our website: Alerts & Conditions - Voyageurs National Park (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)

Snowmobile Trails:
International Falls to Kettle Falls (Purple Trail) - Closed, Staked
Rainy Lake/Black Bay to Kabetogama Lake to Ash River (Green Trail) - Open, Staked not Groomed
Ash River to Crane Lake (Green Trail) - Open, Staked not Groomed
Chain of Lakes (Dashed Black Trail) - Closed
Ash River to Kettle Falls (Yellow Trail) - Closed not Staked
East Namakan Lake to Sand Point Lake (Blue Trail) - Closed, Staked

Ice Roads:
Rainy Lake Ice Road - Closed
Rainy Lake Dryweed Loop - Closed
Kabetogama Lake Ice Road - Closed
Kabetogama Lake Ice Road West and East Spur Roads - Closed

Ski Trails:
Kabetogama Area:
Echo Bay Ski Trail - Packed not tracked
Rainy Lake Area:
Rainy Lake Rec Trail - Packed not tracked
Black Bay Ski Trail - Closed
Tilson Connector Trail - Closed

Snowshoe Trails: Hiking allowed on trails
Rainy Lake Area:
Rainy Lake Recreation Trail - Open
Oberholtzer Trail - Open
Black Bay Beaver Pond Trail - Closed
Ash River Area:
KabAsh Trail - Open
Blind Ash Bay Trail - Open
Sullivan Bay Trail - Open

Kabetogama Lake Recreation Area:
Sledding Hill - Closed
Ice Rink - Closed

For further information on land trails in communities surrounding the park check out these links:
Voyageur Trail Society - Trail Updates Voyageur Trail Society - Trail Updates (snowmobilevacation.org)
Trail Report http://www.ridetheborders.com/trail-report.html
Snow Depth and Groomed Trail Conditions | Minnesota DNR Snow Depth and Groomed Trail Conditions | Minnesota DNR (state.mn.us)
Buyck Portageurs Snowmobile Club https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057218389432
Ash River Kabetogama Snowdrifters - Ash River Kabetogama Snowdrifters Snowmobile Club. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068157102512
Polar Polers Ski Club: Polar Polers | International Falls MN | Facebook

Photo: Green snowmobile trail at the Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center on 2/22/2024.  Photo credit: NPS/C. Nevalinen

Winter Cattail Burns in Voyageurs National Park

INTERNATIONAL FALLS, MN: In the coming weeks, when conditions allow, Voyageurs National Park staff will conduct prescribed burns in selected wetlands on Rainy and Kabetogama Lakes. The burn operations will be in and near Black Bay, Dove Bay, Cranberry Bay, and Alder Creek on Rainy Lake and Tom Cod, Irwin, Bowman, and Daley Bays on Kabetogama Lake. Activities include burning invasive hybrid cattail stands in areas that will be mechanically treated during the summer. The winter burning assists in reducing the amount of organic material to be mechanically removed, greatly improving the efficacy of the summer work. Burning will be attempted in late February through early March 2024.

Burning operations will only occur during daylight hours. Visitors are reminded that smoke will be generated by the burning operations and to avoid areas of active burning.

Hybrid cattails have invaded approximately 500-acres of wetlands in Voyageurs, displacing native communities of plants such as wild rice, sedges, rushes, and native cattail. The Voyageurs Wetland Restoration Project is a long-term project to improve habitat for wildlife, provide enhanced fishing opportunities, and support natural wetlands through increased native plant diversity. More information on the project can be found at: Voyageurs Wetlands - Voyageurs National Park (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)

Voyageurs National Park press releases can be found here: News Releases - Voyageurs National Park (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)

Winter Trails Report 2/14/2024

The green trail is open for snowmobiles from International Falls to Crane Lake but remain cautious of conditions and lack of snow. What little snow we did get in the past few days has frozen and you will likely find riding rough. Adequate snow to provide lubrication for snowmobiles may be limited. Land portages are still rough and not groomed.

The Gold Portage currently has a running stream drainage so use caution. Be aware that the stakes have been removed from the yellow trail due to open water in areas. Ice quality and thickness has not been checked on trails other than the green trail, and they are currently identified as closed. Use caution while riding around shorelines and in shallow water areas around sand bars where open water areas are possible.

The state managed land trails outside the park are still waiting for adequate snow to groom, although some trails have been packed. We encourage everyone to remember that ice is never 100% safe. Be aware of conditions and ride in response to them.

The current trails report can always be found at Alerts & Conditions - Voyageurs National Park (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)

Snowmobile Trails:
International Falls to Kettle Falls (Purple Trail) - Closed
Rainy Lake/Black Bay to Kabetogama Lake to Ash River (Green Trail) - Open, Staked not Groomed
Ash River to Crane Lake (Green Trail) - Open, Staked not Groomed
Chain of Lakes (Dashed Black Trail) - Closed
Ash River to Kettle Falls (Yellow Trail) - Closed
East Namakan Lake to Sand Point Lake (Blue Trail) - Closed

Ice Roads:
Rainy Lake Ice Road - Closed
Rainy Lake Dryweed Loop - Closed
Kabetogama Lake Ice Road - Closed
Kabetogama Lake Ice Road West and East Spur Roads - Closed

Ski Trails:
Kabetogama Area:
Echo Bay Ski Trail - Packed not tracked
Rainy Lake Area:
Rainy Lake Rec Trail - Packed not tracked
Black Bay Ski Trail - Closed
Tilson Connector Trail - Closed

Snowshoe Trails: Hiking allowed on trails
Rainy Lake Area:
Rainy Lake Recreation Trail - Open
Oberholtzer Trail - Open
Black Bay Beaver Pond Trail - Closed
Ash River Area:
KabAsh Trail - Open
Blind Ash Bay Trail - Open
Sullivan Bay Trail - Open

Kabetogama Lake Recreation Area:
Sledding Hill - Closed
Ice Rink - Closed

For further information on land trails in communities surrounding the park check out these links:
Voyageur Trail Society - Trail Updates https://www.snowmobilevacation.com and https://www.facebook.com/VTSIGrooms
Trail Report (ridetheborders.com) http://www.ridetheborders.com/trail-report.html and https://www.facebook.com/IVSClub
Snow Depth and Groomed Trail Conditions | Minnesota DNR https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/snow_depth/index.html
Buyck Portageurs Snowmobile Club https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057218389432
Ash River Kabetogama Snowdrifters - Ash River Kabetogama Snowdrifters Snowmobile Club. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068157102512
Polar Polers Ski Club: Polar Polers | International Falls MN | Facebook

Winter Trails Report 2/7/2024

Warm weather has led to additional loss of ice and snow this week, continuing to make trail conditions challenging in the Park. Slush and standing water have been found in several locations near beaver ponds and pressure ridges on frozen lake surfaces. Notably, a large pressure ridge near the Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center has led to over 12 inches of standing water along the Green Trail. Currently, there are only a few inches of hard packed snow on the lake trails. There may not be adequate snow to provide lubrication for snowmobiles, and you may find your machine overheating. Land portages continue to be difficult and slow going. Trail crews continue to monitor conditions for establishing ice roads but have found spots with less than the required 12 inches of ice. No ice roads have yet been opened.

Without a significant amount of snow and longer periods of cold temperatures, we don’t anticipate trail conditions improving in the immediate future. It will have to wait and see what the coming days will bring. We encourage everyone to remember that ice is never 100% safe. Be aware of conditions and ride in response to them.  You can always find the most current trail conditions on our website: Alerts & Conditions - Voyageurs National Park (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)

Snowmobile Trails:
International Falls to Kettle Falls (Purple Trail) -Open Staked Not Groomed
Rainy Lake/Black Bay to Kabetogama Lake to Ash River (Green Trail) -Open Staked Not Groomed
Ash River to Crane Lake (Green Trail) - Open Staked Not Groomed
Chain of Lakes (Dashed Black Trail) - Closed
Ash River to Kettle Falls (Yellow Trail) - Closed
East Namakan Lake to Sand Point Lake (Blue Trail) - Open Staked Not Groomed

Ice Roads:
Rainy Lake Ice Road - Closed
Rainy Lake Dryweed Loop - Closed
Kabetogama Lake Ice Road - Closed
Kabetogama Lake Ice Road West and East Spur Roads - Closed

Ski Trails:
Kabetogama Area:
Echo Bay Ski Trail - Packed not tracked
Rainy Lake Area:
Rainy Lake Rec Trail - Packed not tracked
Black Bay Ski Trail - Closed
Tilson Connector Trail - Closed

Snowshoe Trails: Hiking allowed on trails
Rainy Lake Area:
Rainy Lake Recreation Trail - Open
Oberholtzer Trail - Open
Black Bay Beaver Pond Trail - Closed
Ash River Area:
KabAsh Trail - Open
Blind Ash Bay Trail - Open
Sullivan Bay Trail - Open

Kabetogama Lake Recreation Area:
Sledding Hill - Closed
Ice Rink - Closed

For further information on land trails in communities surrounding the park check out these links:
Voyageur Trail Society - Trail Updates https://www.snowmobilevacation.com and https://www.facebook.com/VTSIGrooms
Trail Report (ridetheborders.com) http://www.ridetheborders.com/trail-report.html and https://www.facebook.com/IVSClub
Snow Depth and Groomed Trail Conditions | Minnesota DNR https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/snow_depth/index.html
Buyck Portageurs Snowmobile Club https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057218389432
Ash River Kabetogama Snowdrifters - Ash River Kabetogama Snowdrifters Snowmobile Club. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068157102512
Polar Polers Ski Club: Polar Polers | International Falls MN | Facebook

A pressure ridge on the Green Trail near Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center - Credit: NPS Photo/C. Nevalainen

Winter Trails Report 2/1/2024

Unseasonably warm weather has led to significant snow loss on land portages and lake surfaces this week. Under these conditions, our grooming equipment has not been effective so riding can be rough and slower in many areas. Watch for slush, and even streams crossing some trails. We have marked known hazards, but riders should remain alert for others. The yellow trail was recently closed after a beaver dam broke and flooded parts of the trail. With this closure the connection from the eastern end of the purple trail at Kettle Falls to the green trail to the south is not possible. Trail crews are continuing to assess conditions throughout the Park and will open additional trails and ice roads when conditions allow. We encourage everyone to remember that ice is never 100% safe. Be aware of conditions and ride in response to them.

You can always find the most current winter trails conditions on our website: Alerts & Conditions - Voyageurs National Park (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)

Snowmobile Trails:
International Falls to Kettle Falls (Purple Trail) -Open Staked Not Groomed
Rainy Lake/Black Bay to Kabetogama Lake to Ash River (Green Trail) -Open Staked Not Groomed
Ash River to Crane Lake (Green Trail) - Open Staked Not Groomed
Chain of Lakes (Dashed Black Trail) - Closed
Ash River to Kettle Falls (Yellow Trail) - Closed
East Namakan Lake to Sand Point Lake (Blue Trail) - Open Staked Not Groomed

Ice Roads:
Rainy Lake Ice Road - Closed
Rainy Lake Dryweed Loop - Closed
Kabetogama Lake Ice Road - Closed
Kabetogama Lake Ice Road West and East Spur Roads - Closed

Ski Trails:
Kabetogama Area:
Echo Bay Ski Trail - Packed not tracked
Rainy Lake Area:
Rainy Lake Rec Trail - Packed not tracked
Black Bay Ski Trail - Closed
Tilson Connector Trail - Closed

Snowshoe Trails: Hiking allowed on trails
Rainy Lake Area:
Rainy Lake Recreation Trail - Open
Oberholtzer Trail - Open
Black Bay Beaver Pond Trail - Closed
Ash River Area:
KabAsh Trail - Open
Blind Ash Bay Trail - Open
Sullivan Bay Trail - Open

Kabetogama Lake Recreation Area:
Sledding Hill - Closed
Ice Rink - Closed

For further information on land trails in communities surrounding the park check out these links:
Voyageur Trail Society - Trail Updates https://www.snowmobilevacation.com and https://www.facebook.com/VTSIGrooms
Trail Report (ridetheborders.com) http://www.ridetheborders.com/trail-report.html and https://www.facebook.com/IVSClub
Snow Depth and Groomed Trail Conditions | Minnesota DNR https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/snow_depth/index.html
Buyck Portageurs Snowmobile Club https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057218389432
Ash River Kabetogama Snowdrifters - Ash River Kabetogama Snowdrifters Snowmobile Club. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068157102512
Polar Polers Ski Club: Polar Polers | International Falls MN | Facebook

Green Trail at the Gold Portage.  Minimal snow cover, and bare ground in places.  Photo credit: NPS/S. Schultz Photo

Yellow Trail - water running across the trail.  Photo credit: NPS/R.Gelo

February 2024 Night Sky Calendar

On Feb. 1 the sun sets nearly an hour later compared to the winter solstice. By month’s end we gain an additional 45 minutes of daylight. As daylight trickles in the winter constellations stand at their highest in the evening sky. You probably know them by now — Orion the Hunter,Canis Major the Big Dog, Canis Minor the Little Dog, Gemini the Twins, Auriga the Charioteer and Taurus the Bull. If you’re still unfamiliar download the free Stellarium Mobile app for Android and iPhone. Just do a Google search then install and point your phone skyward!

That’s not all that’s standing this winter. If you face northeast, you’ll see a bear balancing on its tail. Ursa Major the Great Bear is back! The brightest stars in the constellation outline the Big Dipper. Its handle – which it stands on during the evening hours − represents the bruin’s tail. Subtract the star at the top of the bowl and end of the tail and the remaining five form a loose cluster of gravitationally-bound stars called the Ursa Major Moving Group. The core of this gangly bunch lies about 80 light-years from Earth.

Jupiter is the sole remaining evening planet. It shines high in the southwestern sky at the end of evening twilight. Binoculars will show several of its brightest moons as well as reveal the planet’s shape. Take a look. You’ll see that Jupiter has a small disk. Even though it’s miniscule in comparison to the stars it’s so much closer.

Venus continues to light up the dawn sky, shining low in the southeast during morning twilight. A “new” planet returns to view this month — Mars. It’s still a little shy and faint so you’ll have to look for it with binoculars for now. (Note: for a larger version of the sky map posted here go to: https://bit.ly/48ONieE)

Navigating the February night sky

Events (a.m. indicates the event happens in the early morning sky):

Feb. 1 (a.m.) – Close conjunction of the waning gibbous moon and Virgo’s brightest star Spica. The moon will sit just 1.5 to 2 degrees to the left (east) of Spica.

Feb. 2 (a.m.) – Last quarter moon. It rises around 12:30 a.m. local time and stands highest in the southern sky during morning twilight.

Feb. 7 (a.m.) – Thin crescent moon and Venus appear together low in the southeastern sky at dawn.

Feb. 9 – New Moon. The moon lies in the same part of the sky as the sun and is not visible.

Feb. 10 – A chance to spot a super-thin crescent moon just a day past new. Find a location with an unobstructed southwest horizon and start looking 30-45 minutes after sunset. Binoculars will help. They’ll also assist in a further challenge — one last peek at Saturn. The ringed planet will shine faintly about 2.5 degrees above the moon in the same field of view. Find your local sunset time at https://www.timeanddate.com/sun/

Jupiter and moon on Valentine’s Night

Feb. 14 – Like lovers on Valentine’s Day Jupiter and the crescent moon will smooch tonight. Look for the twosome starting at dusk.

Feb. 16 – First quarter moon or half-phase. Tonight, the moon will shine alongside the Pleaides star cluster, a.k.a. the Seven Sisters. Look for the cluster just 2 degrees to the right (west) of the moon. Binoculars will provide a splendid view of the pair!

Feb. 20 – Waxing gibbous moon shines just 1.5 degrees below Pollux, the brightest star in Gemini the Twins. Pollux is home to the extrasolar planet Thestias, which is twice as massive as Jupiter and orbits the star every 1.6 years. Above and a little right of Pollux is his twin brother, Castor.

Feb. 22 – Welcome back, Red Planet! Venus and Mars will pair in a close conjunction less than 1 degree apart this morning very low in the southeastern sky 30-45 minutes before sunrise. You’ll need binoculars and an unobstructed horizon to spot the duo.

Feb. 23 and 24 – What, two Full Snow Moons? Well, sort of. The moon will be “fullest” on Feb. 24 at 6:30 a.m. CST, midway between the night before and after. To the eye it will appear identically full two nights in a row. On Feb. 23 it rises in Leo the Lion just above its brightest star Regulus. Find your local moonrise time at www.timeanddate.com/moon

Feb. 28 (a.m.) – Waning gibbous moon shines 2.5 degrees to the upper right (west) of Virgo’s brightest star Spica.

Feb. 29 – Spend some of Leap Day under the stars! You won’t get a chance to do it again for four years.

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Bob King is an amateur astronomer, author, and passionate educator. He served as a photographer and photo editor at the Duluth News Tribune for 39 years and taught at the UMD planetarium. Bob’s work had a great impact on Voyageurs National Park. To achieve International Dark Sky Park certification, the park was required to host dark sky education events. Through the Night Sky Explorer webinars, the Conservancy was able to fulfill this component and help secure the certification for Voyageurs National Park. We can’t thank Bob King enough for sharing his talents and knowledge with the Conservancy community to support dark sky preservation.

Wolves and Coyotes in Minnesota: A closer look at two iconic canines

Written by Maeve Rogers, Wolf Predation & Research Technician

In the expansive wilderness of Minnesota, where forests stretch as far as the eye can see and the haunting howls of predators echo through the night. Venture along the main highway bordering Voyageurs National Park at night, and you may just be greeted by two distinct sounds. The deep, haunting howls signify the enduring presence of a centuries-old inhabitant. Meanwhile, the sharp, high-pitched yips signal the presence of another. Two iconic members of the canine family roam the land: the gray wolf (Canis lupus) and the coyote (Canis latrans). While both species share similar habitats and behaviors, they also exhibit distinct differences that contribute to their unique roles in the ecosystem. 

However, the question arises: In the obscurity of the night, how does one discern the nuanced differences between a wolf and a coyote?

Minnesota's vast and diverse landscapes are home to a rich array of wildlife, including two of the most iconic and enigmatic members of the canine family – the gray wolf and the coyote. While these two species belong to the Canidae family, they share certain similarities. However, they also exhibit distinct differences in their appearance, behavior, ecology, and impact on the ecosystem.

Identifying wolves from coyotes may seem straightforward due to the significant size difference, with adult wolves often towering two to three times larger. However, confusion persists, leading to ecological and legal implications.

The gray wolf is federally listed in the Endangered Species Act (ESA) as either threatened or endangered in the lower 48, including Minnesota where it is listed as threatened. In contrast, coyotes lack protection under the ESA or any defense at the state or federal level. Specifically in Minnesota, coyotes are unprotected and can be taken at any time through shooting or trapping. This article aims to explore the distinctive features that differentiate these canines, examining both their similarities and differences.

The Gray Wolf

Gray wolves, also referred to as timber wolves in Minnesota, exhibit distinctive features that set them apart in the wild. Once on the brink of extinction in Minnesota, concerted conservation efforts have led to a remarkable recovery of wolf populations in recent decades. Today, these predators play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems throughout the state. 

Appearance and Size 

One of the most striking features of the gray wolf is its sheer size and formidable presence. Adult wolves typically weigh between 60 to 120 pounds depending on geographical location, with males generally larger than females. Insights gathered from the Voyageurs Wolf Project in northern Minnesota have found that, on average, wolves in this region weigh between 60-62 pounds. However, the wolf population is not a one-size-fits-all. While certain adult female wolves in the area may weigh a modest 40 pounds, adult male wolves have been recorded weighing in the 80-pound range at the time of capture. In 2021, the project captured one exceptional solitary male wolf weighing 91 pounds. Weighing wild wolves poses a challenge as it's not an exact science due to the fact that an average wolf can carry up to 20 pounds of food in their stomach at any given time!

Wolves typically possess taller, longer, and bulkier physiques, measuring between four to five feet in length on average. They have long, bushy tails that often sport black tips, while their coats exhibit a blend of gray and brown hues, complemented by buffy facial markings and undersides. The coloration of wolves varies from solid white to brown or black, contributing to their visual diversity. Additionally, wolves possess slightly more rounded ears, boxier snouts, broader heads, and fur around their necks and faces that appears more tufted, akin to a parka.

Credit: Maeve Rogers

Habitat and Range 

Gray wolves are highly adaptable creatures, capable of thriving in a variety of habitats ranging from dense forests to rugged mountains. In Minnesota, these apex predators primarily inhabit the northern and central regions of the state, where vast stretches of wilderness provide ample prey and suitable den sites. They are known to roam across extensive areas of land, with pack territories sometimes spanning hundreds of square miles. Territories are typically somewhere between 40-60 square miles, but the average summer homerange discovered for wolves in northern Minnesota is roughly 45 square miles (Gable 2016). 

Diet

Wolves in Minnesota exhibit remarkable adaptability in hunting strategies, seamlessly transitioning between pursuit and ambush predation based on prey availability. They primarily pursue ungulates like white-tailed deer, elk, and occasionally moose. Wolves seem to make a switch to ambushing foraging beavers during the ice-free season. Additionally, wolves opportunistically hunt rodents, small mammals, waterfowl, game birds, insects, and even spawning fish in the right conditions. They can also switch to foraging strategies when prey is not as abundant. Research from the Voyageurs Wolf Project reveals that berries constitute a significant portion of their diet, comprising 56–83% of weekly biomass until mid-August (Gabel et al., 2018). Another significant portion of a wolfs’ diet comes from scavenging carrion, which is the decomposing flesh of another animal. They take advantage of a variety of carcasses like winter-killed animals (animals that succumbed to harsh winter conditions like deer, moose, etc), road kill, hunter-killed animals, gut piles left from hunters, and even other wolves. It's quite a feast when they dine, as adults can consume up to 20 pounds of meat in a single meal. 

Pictured: Two wolves traveling together. Notice the broad heads and jaws, rounded ears, thick builds, striking facial markings, tail position, and thick necks. Credit: Voyageurs Wolf Project

Social Structure and Behavior 

At the heart of wolf society lies the pack, a tightly-knit family unit governed by a complex hierarchy. Packs typically consist of a dominant breeding pair, known as the breeding male and female, along with their offspring from previous years. The term 'alpha' was previously used to describe wolf pack structure but has since been revised with the recognition that wolf packs operate through shared leadership among the breeding pair. This model contrasts with the notion of sole leadership by a single individual, as implied by the term 'alpha'. These family bonds are strengthened through intricate social rituals, including communal hunting and vocal communication through howls, body language, and play. 

The Coyote

While usually not seen as iconic as their larger cousins, coyotes are nonetheless integral components of Minnesota's diverse ecosystems. Renowned for their resilience and adaptability, these resourceful predators have thrived in a variety of landscapes, including urban environments where they have earned a reputation for their cunning and elusive nature. 

Appearance and Size 

Coyotes are smaller in stature compared to gray wolves, typically weighing on average between 20 and 30 pounds in Minnesota. Like wolves, they also possess some size variations with some individuals reaching into the 37-38 pound range in the state. They possess a slender build, with long legs and a bushy tail that aids in balance and communication. Their fur ranges in color from grayish-brown to reddish-blonde, providing effective camouflage in a variety of habitats. 

Credit: Maeve Rogers

Habitat and Range 

Unlike gray wolves, which tend to favor remote wilderness areas, coyotes are remarkably versatile in their choice of habitat. From the dense woodlands of northern Minnesota to the sprawling prairies of the southern plains, these adaptable predators can be found throughout the state. Coyotes have even established thriving populations in suburban and urban areas, where they capitalize on readily available food sources and shelter. 

Diet

While coyotes primarily function as predators, they also exhibit remarkable opportunism in their feeding habits, adapting their diets to capitalize on the most accessible prey. Their adaptability and opportunistic nature when it comes to diet is similar to wolves. Some of the primary food sources for coyotes are small rodents, various fruits, white-tailed deer, and snowshoe hare. They are also major scavengers, often benefiting from wolf-killed prey, yet they can pivot towards actively hunting larger prey when the opportunity arises. This versatile approach underscores the coyote's adaptability and resourcefulness in varied environments.

Social Structure and Behavior 

Coyotes exhibit a more solitary lifestyle compared to the highly social nature of gray wolves. While they may form temporary pair bonds during the breeding season, coyotes are primarily solitary hunters, relying on stealth and cunning to capture prey. They are opportunistic feeders, with diets consisting of small mammals, birds, insects, and even fruits and vegetation when available. Coyotes are also major scavengers, and often make use of wolf-killed prey, road kill, hunter discards, and more if possible.

Ecological Role and Conservation 

Credit: Maeve Rogers

Both gray wolves and coyotes play vital and unique roles in shaping the ecosystems of Minnesota. As apex predators, gray wolves help regulate prey populations and prevent overgrazing while also promoting biodiversity. Their presence also influences the behavior and distribution of prey species, leading to cascading effects throughout the food web. Studies have shown that wolves alter wetland creation and recolonization by preying on an ecosystem engineer like the beaver. Through this relationship, wolves as predators have also shaped the trajectory and composition of forests.

The relationship between Coyotes, meanwhile, serve as important mesopredators, helping control populations of rodents and smaller mammals. The relationship between coyotes and small rodents and mammals can serve as a beneficial form of rodent control near urban areas.

The narrative of the gray wolf stands as one of the most captivating stories in American wildlife history. Once abundant across North America, the wolf faced relentless hunting and was eradicated from nearly all of their historic range. However, despite the hefty efforts to eradicate the species, a small population persisted in northern Minnesota near Voyageurs National Park. Thanks to robust conservation initiatives, the wolf is now experiencing a resurgence in some of its former range. With its return, the gray wolf assumes a pivotal role in maintaining the health and balance of ecosystems.

Challenges and Coexistence 

Despite their ecological importance, both gray wolves and coyotes face ongoing threats in Minnesota. Habitat fragmentation and loss, human encroachment, and conflicts with livestock and domestic pets pose significant challenges to their survival. Additionally, misinformation and misconceptions surrounding these canines have fueled controversial debates over conservation and management practices. In recent years, organizations such as the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the Voyageurs Wolf Project, and the International Wolf Center have spearheaded efforts to promote coexistence. Through research, education, and community outreach initiatives, these organizations strive to foster a deeper understanding of the ecological roles played by wolves and coyotes, while also addressing concerns related to various human concerns and livestock protection. 

Pictured: Three coyotes traveling together. Notice the narrow snouts, pointed ears, slender legs, orangey coat colors, and tail position. Credit: Voyageurs Wolf Project

In the vast and untamed wilderness of Minnesota, the gray wolf and the coyote stand as living symbols of resilience, adaptability, and ecological significance. While each species possesses its own unique traits and behaviors, they share a common bond as integral components of the North Woods ecosystem. As stewards of the land, it is our collective responsibility to safeguard the future of these predators along with their prey and habitats to ensure their continued presence in Minnesota's wild places. By fostering coexistence, promoting conservation efforts, and embracing the inherent value of all our wildlife, we can preserve the rich tapestry of life that defines our state's natural heritage for generations to come.

Trail Camera Pictures For Comparison

Pictured above are three coyotes traveling together. Notice the narrow snouts, pointed ears, slender legs, orangey coat colors, and tail position.

Pictured above are a wolf(left) and a coyote (right) traveling down the same trail. You can see the distinct differences between the ears, head, legs, frame, and body posture. Credit: Voyageurs Wolf Project

Pictured above is a photomontage of two pictures demonstrating the size difference between coyotes (left) and a wolf (right) on the same trail camera. When side-by-side, adult wolves and coyotes have very noticeable differences in size. Credit: Voyageurs Wolf Project

There can be slight overlaps in weight and length ranges between the two species, particularly among young wolves like pups and smaller yearlings. Here is a good capture comparison between a wolf pup and a coyote. Credit: Voyageurs Wolf Project

Pictured above is a collage of wolf pups (left side) and adult coyotes (right side) pictures. Differences, even though more challenging to point out, are still present between head, ears, snout, fame, and legs. Credit: Voyageurs Wolf Project

References

All pictures were captured on trail cameras by the Voyageurs Wolf Project

Art and Diagrams were drawn by Maeve Rogers

Gable, T.D. 2016. Wolf predation: where and how wolves kill beavers, and confronting the biases in scat-based diet studies. MSc. Thesis, Northern Michigan University, Marquette.

Gable, T.D., Windels, S.K., Bruggink, J.G. and Barber-Meyer, S.M., 2018. Weekly summer diet of gray wolves (Canis lupus) in northeastern Minnesota. The American Midland Naturalist, 179(1), pp.15-27.

Gable, T.D., Johnson-Bice, S.M., Homkes, A.T., Windels, S.K., and Bump, J. K. 2020. Outsized effect of predation: Wolves alter wetland creation and recolonization by killing ecosystem engineers. Science Advances, 6(46), eabc5439. doi:10.1126/sciadv.abc5439

Minnesota’s Boreal Stargazing Week hosted on February 10-18, 2024

A Week of Discovery, Stargazing, and Nighttime Wonder

Credit: Peter McWilliams

Embrace the winter darkness and discover the magic of Minnesota’s starbright skies! Join us for a week of free activities for students, families, and friends that will immerse you in learning and stargazing.

Hosted across Minnesota parks and wilderness areas, learning centers, and virtual programs - the second-annual Boreal Stargazing Week will take place from February 10 -18, 2024 with dark sky experiences for all ages and backgrounds. Boreal Stargazing events are free and feature captivating night sky tours, snowshoe hikes, live conversations with astronomers, and more!

Attendees will enjoy a rare opportunity to explore our inspiring universe alongside dark sky experts and experience the magic of Minnesota’s night skies. Keep reading to learn about Boreal Stargazing events hosted in Voyageurs National Park, the Superior National Forest, Duluth, and the Twin Cities. For up-to-date event information, click here.

Boreal Stargazing events are brought to you by Voyageurs Conservancy, Friends of the Boundary Waters Wilderness, Starry Skies North, Voyageurs National Park, Superior National Forest, Expeditions in Education, The Bell Museum, Wood Lake Nature Center, and NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center.

Teachers and Educators, your students can receive FREE live virtual programs on the wonders of dark skies with special speakers from NASA, National Park Service, Expeditions in Education, and more! Click here to learn more and register for Boreal Stargazing Week speakers live-streamed directly to your classroom. Dates: February 12-15; Grades K-12; Available to classrooms across the nation.

Credit: Gordy Lindgren

Community Programs: Nighttime Exploration Across Minnesota

Voyageurs National Park: Nighttime Snowshoe Hike
Saturday, February 10
6-7:30 PM
NOTE: Location changed to Oberholtzer Trail

Join a park ranger and Voyageurs Conservancy for a guided snowshoe hike and telescope observation session at the Oberholtzer Trail near the Rainy Lake Visitor Center. Snowshoe rentals are free and available upon arrival. Bring warm layers and a headlamp! 

No reservation necessary

Virtual: Art of the Night Sky with Sam Zimmerman
Sunday, February 11th, 2024 
2 - 3:00pm CT
ZOOM - Register here.

Join Sam for a presentation featuring art of the evening sky, sharing the stories that inspired the pieces featuring Ojibwe constellations. Learn more about the birds and animals in his work, and how they inspire his art. 

Sam Zimmerman, a Grand Portage direct descendant, is a painter, author, and educator based in Duluth, Minnesota. Zimmerman draws on his Ojibwe heritage to create vibrant images filled with symbolism. He passionately believes in artistic expression as a gateway for education and cultural understanding. His work continues the Anishinaabe tradition of storytelling, with themes of environmental stewardship and conservation. His work has been showcased in gallery and public installations throughout the nation and abroad.

Ages: This presentation is best for upper elementary and older, and perfect for families and young adults!

Register here.

BWCAW: Snowshoe to the Hegman Lake Petroglyphs
Monday, Feb. 12th and Friday, Feb. 16th - 5:00 PM
Bass Lake Trail trailhead
NOTE: Due to deteriorating ice conditions, we have changed the location from Hegman Lake to Bass Lake Trail, trailhead.

Join friends, new and old, on an evening snowshoe into the world’s largest Dark Sky Sanctuary-the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness! Enjoy a snowshoe on Bass Lake Trail experiencing the grandeur of the universe above you. Hosted by the Superior National Forest and the Friends of the Boundary Waters Wilderness, these events require advance registration.

The Friends of the Boundary Waters Wilderness will provide warm drinks in the parking lot as well as snowshoes for a limited number of folks who need to borrow them. Registration is required to reserve snowshoes. Stargazing can be done near the parking lot for people who want to enjoy the night sky but are unable to join the snowshoe. Open to folks of all ages, make sure to dress for the weather! Register here.

Register here.

Exploring Dark Skies at the Marshall W. Alworth Planetarium

Friday, February 16th, 7-9 PM
Marshall W. Alworth Planetarium on UMD campus, Duluth, MN

From 7 - 8 PM, learn about the adverse effects of light pollution and what you can do to be a steward of the night sky with Marshall W. Alworth Planetarium

From 7 - 9 PM, join Astro Bob, the Marshall W. Alworth Planetarium, and the Arrowhead Astronomical Society to explore the wonders of the night sky. Come see Jupiter and the moon up close.

No reservation necessary. Weather Permitting.

Twin Cities: Night Sky Watching Party - Wood Lake Nature Center

Friday, February 16th, 6-8 PM
Wood Lake Nature Center, Richfield, MN

Look for constellations, hear stories, and explore our inspiring universe alongside night sky experts, park naturalists, and local astronomers. Learn how our night sky has been lost to light pollution, and simple things to do to bring back the night. Bring the whole family for this extraordinary night! Bell Museum and Voyageurs Conservancy will host tables with more information about our starry skies, and the intriguing world of wolf nocturnal behaviors.

Register here.

Voyageurs National Park: Ski Event and Telescope Program

Saturday, February 17, 6-7:30 PM
Tilson Bay Bogwalk, International Falls, MN

Join the Polar Polers, Voyageurs National Park, and Voyageurs Conservancy for cross country skiing and a telescope observation session at Tilson Bay. Meet at the Tilson Bay Bogwalk parking lot. Bring warm layers and a headlamp!

Note: Please bring your own skis before the program begins (they are not available at Tilson Bay Bogwalk). Limited rental skis are available for free at the Rainy Lake Visitor Center if picked up before 4pm and then brought to the ski event just a short drive away.

No reservation necessary.

Twin Cities: Space Fest at the Bell Museum

Saturday-Sunday, February 17-18, 10-4pm
Bell Museum, Saint Paul, MN

Catch up with Voyageurs Conservancy, Friends of the Boundary Waters and Starry Skies North during Space Fest at the Bell Museum and learn about what makes Minnesota’s dark skies special.

Space Fest (February 16-18) is hosted by the Bell Museum and features hands-on activities, guest speakers, and demonstrations throughout the weekend as we celebrate our closest star.

Regular admission and planetarium tickets are required to attend this event. Click here for pricing.

Credit: NPS / Mark Miller

Join us for Boreal Stargazing Week - where the magic of the Minnesota night skies comes to life! Learn more.

Teachers, click here to register for inspiring Boreal Stargazing Week programs and speakers live streamed directly to your classroom!

Why are we celebrating?

Credit: NPS / Mark Miller

For millennia, humans have looked to the stars for inspiration and connection. Located along the Minnesota-Canadian border is a rare sanctuary for starry skies. Voyageurs National Park and the Superior National Forest’s Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in Northern Minnesota make up one of the largest Dark Sky Regions in the world.

The Boreal Stargazing Week celebrates the importance of dark skies through virtual school programs and community events. Friends of the Boundary Waters Wilderness, Voyageurs Conservancy, Starry Skies North, National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, and the Bell Museum, are joining together to share boreal dark skies with folks of all ages and backgrounds. Enjoy snowshoe programs, telescope sessions, and live conversations with amateur astronomers. Join us for a free program and discover the wilderness above your head.

Thank You to our Supporters

Funding support for Boreal Stargazing Week was generously provided by the National Park Foundation and the Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund as recommended by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR).

Winter Trails Report 1/24/2024

There have been positive improvements to the Park’s winter trails this week.  The green trail is now entirely open from Franks Bay to Crane Lake.  The gold portage is still rough, and stakes have been placed to mark trail edges and drops.  Stay between the stakes to avoid those hazards. The purple trail on Rainy Lake is open to Kettle Falls, but there are two marked sections of slush that riders should approach with caution.  The yellow trail is open with a new temporary bridge spanning a small creek near Mica Bay that is slow to freeze over.  Use caution while crossing the bridge.  Travel on the snowmobile trails is rough, as there are only a few inches of snow on the ice in many places.  The trails have been staked, but not groomed.  Land portages have been packed but are rough due to the limited amount of snow.   

In the coming days, the trail crew will be checking ice to establish what we can of ice roads. Later next week, depending on snow conditions on the lakes, they will focus on grooming what they can. We are not able to run larger grooming equipment until we have 10 inches of ice and adequate snow consistently along the trail route. We encourage everyone to remember that ice is never 100% safe. Be aware of conditions and ride in response to them. 

As always, you can find the latest winter trails conditions at Alerts & Conditions - Voyageurs National Park (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)

Snowmobile Trails:
International Falls to Kettle Falls (Purple Trail) -Open Staked Not Groomed
Rainy Lake/Black Bay to Kabetogama Lake to Ash River (Green Trail) -Open Staked Not Groomed
Ash River to Crane Lake (Green Trail) - Open Staked Not Groomed
Chain of Lakes (Dashed Black Trail) - Closed
Ash River to Kettle Falls (Yellow Trail) - Open Staked not Groomed
East Namakan Lake to Sand Point Lake (Blue Trail) - Open Staked Not Groomed

Ice Roads:
Rainy Lake Ice Road - Closed
Rainy Lake Dryweed Loop - Closed
Kabetogama Lake Ice Road - Closed
Kabetogama Lake Ice Road West and East Spur Roads - Closed

Ski Trails:
Kabetogama Area:
Echo Bay Ski Trail - Packed not tracked
Rainy Lake Area:
Rainy Lake Rec Trail - Packed not tracked
Black Bay Ski Trail - Closed
Tilson Connector Trail - Closed

Snowshoe Trails: Hiking allowed on trails
Rainy Lake Area:
Rainy Lake Recreation Trail - Open
Oberholtzer Trail - Open
Black Bay Beaver Pond Trail - Closed
Ash River Area:
KabAsh Trail - Open
Blind Ash Bay Trail - Open
Sullivan Bay Trail - Open

Kabetogama Lake Recreation Area:
Sledding Hill - Closed
Ice Rink - Closed

For further information on land trails in communities surrounding the park check out these links:
Voyageur Trail Society - Trail Updates https://www.snowmobilevacation.com and https://www.facebook.com/VTSIGrooms
Trail Report (ridetheborders.com) http://www.ridetheborders.com/trail-report.html and https://www.facebook.com/IVSClub
Snow Depth and Groomed Trail Conditions | Minnesota DNR https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/snow_depth/index.html
Buyck Portageurs Snowmobile Club https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057218389432
Ash River Kabetogama Snowdrifters - Ash River Kabetogama Snowdrifters Snowmobile Club. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068157102512

Open water near Mica Bay on the yellow trail: NPS Photo/Nevalainen  

Stakes on green trail at Gold Portage : NPS Photo/Line

Winter Trails Report 1/18/2024

We have seen improved ice conditions with recent cold temperatures. Trail crews continue to check ice conditions on the snowmobile trails within the Park. Crews have worked on removing pressure ridges on the Green Trail and will have it staked from Franks Bay on Rainy Lake near International Falls to Ash River in the coming days. Our next priority will be to check ice to Kettle Falls and Crane Lake. The land portages, particularly the Gold Portage, continue to be challenging and should be approached with caution. Lack of adequate snow will lead to rough crossings. Use caution, and heed signage in these areas.

Once the Green Trail is established, further trails will be opened as soon as it is safe to do so. We encourage everyone to remember that ice is never 100% safe.  We strive to send this report by close of business on Thursday each week but will update our website as conditions allow.  You can find the most current trails report on our website at Alerts & Conditions - Voyageurs National Park (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)

Snowmobile Trails
International Falls to Kettle Falls (Purple Trail) - Closed
Rainy Lake/Black Bay to Kabetogama Lake to Ash River (Green Trail) - staked 1/19
Ash River to Crane Lake (Green Trail) - Closed
Chain of Lakes (Dashed Black Trail) - Closed
Ash River to Kettle Falls (Yellow Trail) - Closed
East Namakan Lake to Sand Point Lake (Blue Trail) - Closed

Ice Roads
Rainy Lake Ice Road - Closed
Rainy Lake Dryweed Loop - Closed
Kabetogama Lake Ice Road - Closed
Kabetogama Lake Ice Road West and East Spur Roads - Closed

Ski Trails
Kabetogama Area
Echo Bay Ski Trail - Packed not tracked
Rainy Lake Area
Rainy Lake Rec Trail - Packed not tracked
Black Bay Ski Trail - Closed
Tilson Connector Trail - Closed

Snowshoe Trails (hiking allowed on trails)
Rainy Lake Area
Rainy Lake Recreation Trail - Open
Oberholtzer Trail - Open
Black Bay Beaver Pond Trail - Hiking
Ash River Area
KabAsh Trail - Hiking
Blind Ash Bay Trail - Hiking
Sullivan Bay Trail - Hiking

Kabetogama Lake Recreation Area
Sledding Hill - Closed
Ice Rink - Closed

For further information on land trails in communities surrounding the park check out these links:
Voyageur Trail Society - Trail Updates https://www.snowmobilevacation.com and https://www.facebook.com/VTSIGrooms
Trail Report (ridetheborders.com) http://www.ridetheborders.com/trail-report.html and https://www.facebook.com/IVSClub
Snow Depth and Groomed Trail Conditions | Minnesota DNR https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/snow_depth/index.html
Buyck Portageurs Snowmobile Club https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057218389432
Ash River Kabetogama Snowdrifters - Ash River Kabetogama Snowdrifters Snowmobile Club. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068157102512

Photo: On the Green Trail NPS Photo/Nevalainen

Winter Trails Report 1/10/2024

At this time no winter recreation trails in the park have been established. The Park trails crew has been busy measuring and checking ice along the typical Green Snowmobile trail. Currently, there are only a few inches of snow on top of the ice, making snowmobile travel for the crew rough, and slow going. Pressure ridges on the lakes are creating major issues. A pressure ridge on the west end of Kabetogama is currently impassable, with only 2 – 3 inches of ice measured near the ridge. Establishment of the Green Trail from Franks Bay to Kabetogama will not be possible until the ice at the site is thick enough and the ridge is cut down Trails will be open as soon as conditions are safe to do so. We encourage everyone to remember that ice is never 100% safe.

The trail crew’s top priority is getting the Green Snowmobile trail established. Once completed they will turn their attention to other trail opportunities including ski trails. Predicted snow and cold for the coming days will hopefully improve conditions.

You can always find the most current trails report at Alerts & Conditions - Voyageurs National Park (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)

Snowmobile Trails
International Falls to Kettle Falls (Purple Trail) - Closed
Rainy Lake/Black Bay to Kabetogama Lake to Ash River (Green Trail) - Closed
Ash River to Crane Lake (Green Trail) - Closed
Chain of Lakes (Dashed Black Trail) - Closed
Ash River to Kettle Falls (Yellow Trail) - Closed
East Namakan Lake to Sand Point Lake (Blue Trail) - Closed

Ice Roads
Rainy Lake Ice Road - Closed
Rainy Lake Dryweed Loop - Closed
Kabetogama Lake Ice Road - Closed
Kabetogama Lake Ice Road West and East Spur Roads - Closed

Ski Trails
Kabetogama Area:
Echo Bay Ski Trail - Closed
Rainy Lake Area:
Rainy Lake Rec Trail - Closed
Black Bay Ski Trail - Closed
Tilson Connector Trail - Closed

Snowshoe Trails: Hiking allowed on trails
Rainy Lake Area:
Rainy Lake Recreation Trail - Hiking
Oberholtzer Trail - Hiking
Black Bay Beaver Pond Trail - Hiking
Ash River Area:
KabAsh Trail - Hiking
Blind Ash Bay Trail - Hiking
Sullivan Bay Trail - Hiking

Kabetogama Lake Recreation Area
Sledding Hill - Closed
Ice Rink - Closed

For further information on land trails in communities surrounding the park check out these links:

Voyageur Trail Society - Trail Updates https://www.snowmobilevacation.com and https://www.facebook.com/VTSIGrooms

Trail Report (ridetheborders.com) http://www.ridetheborders.com/trail-report.html and https://www.facebook.com/IVSClub
Snow Depth and Groomed Trail Conditions | Minnesota DNR https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/snow_depth/index.html

Buyck Portageurs Snowmobile Club https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057218389432

Ash River Kabetogama Snowdrifters - Ash River Kabetogama Snowdrifters Snowmobile Club. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068157102512

Photo credit:  NPS/Brian Harmon.  Photo shows pressure ridges on west end of Rainy Lake

Winter Trails Report 1/3/2023

There has not yet been any significant change to the winter trails conditions. We are hopeful that recent freezing temperatures will allow for solid ice formation in the coming days. With very little snow accumulation on the ground, the snowmobile trails have yet been opened. We encourage everyone to remember that ice is never 100% safe.

You can always find our current winter trails report at on our website at: 

Alerts & Conditions - Voyageurs National Park (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)

Snowmobile Trails:
International Falls to Kettle Falls (Purple Trail) - Closed
Rainy Lake/Black Bay to Kabetogama Lake to Ash River (Green Trail) - Closed
Ash River to Crane Lake (Green Trail) - Closed
Chain of Lakes (Dashed Black Trail) - Closed
Ash River to Kettle Falls (Yellow Trail) - Closed
East Namakan Lake to Sand Point Lake (Blue Trail) - Closed

Ice Roads:
Rainy Lake Ice Road - Closed
Rainy Lake Dryweed Loop - Closed
Kabetogama Lake Ice Road - Closed
Kabetogama Lake Ice Road West and East Spur Roads - Closed

Ski Trails:
Kabetogama Area:
Echo Bay Ski Trail - Closed
Rainy Lake Area:
Rainy Lake Rec Trail - Closed
Black Bay Ski Trail - Closed
Tilson Connector Trail - Closed

Snowshoe Trails: Hiking allowed on trails
Rainy Lake Area:
Rainy Lake Recreation Trail - Hiking
Oberholtzer Trail - Hiking
Black Bay Beaver Pond Trail - Hiking
Ash River Area:
KabAsh Trail - Hiking
Blind Ash Bay Trail - Hiking
Sullivan Bay Trail - Hiking

Kabetogama Lake Recreation Area:
Sledding Hill - Closed
Ice Rink - Closed

For further information on land trails in communities surrounding the park check out these links:
Voyageur Trail Society - Trail Updates https://www.snowmobilevacation.com and https://www.facebook.com/VTSIGrooms
Trail Report (ridetheborders.com) http://www.ridetheborders.com/trail-report.html and https://www.facebook.com/IVSClub
Snow Depth and Groomed Trail Conditions | Minnesota DNR https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/snow_depth/index.html
Buyck Portageurs Snowmobile Club https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057218389432
Ash River Kabetogama Snowdrifters - Ash River Kabetogama Snowdrifters Snowmobile Club. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068157102512