VOYAGEURS NAT’L PARK- Minnesota’s only national park is turning 50 this year, and the celebration kicks off next Tuesday, April 8, with events honoring the park’s half-century legacy of conservation, recreation, and natural beauty.
Established in 1975, Voyageurs National Park will mark the occasion with a series of programs and festivities throughout 2025. Gov. Tim Walz has officially proclaimed April 8 as “Voyageurs National Park Day” in Minnesota.
“Anniversaries offer a moment in time for us to reflect on the past and envision the future,” said Park Superintendent Bob DeGross. “On this golden anniversary of Voyageurs National Park, we celebrate not just the breathtaking beauty of its lakes and forests, but the enduring spirit of adventure and connection to nature that it inspires in all who visit. The story of the park is not just in its landscapes, but the story of people connected to the land. From the Tribal Nations connected to the area for millennia; to early settlers seeking wealth and resources; to those who sold long-held family properties so the area could be protected for generations to come. These waterways have carried those stories for time immemorial and will continue to do so into the future.”
Kickoff events
The opening day celebration on Tuesday includes both in-person and online events:
• NPS Archives Tour – Join Park Archivist Catherine Crawford for a behind-the-scenes look at rare historical materials, documents, and artifacts. The open house will be held at park headquarters in International Falls, with a virtual webinar also available at Voyageurs.org/2025archives.
• Raise a Canteen to 50 Years – Visitors, park lovers, and supporters are encouraged to join in a virtual toast by sharing stories and memories on social media using the hashtag #Voyageurs50. This will continue throughout the year.
These activities kick off a full year of events planned by the National Park Service and Voyageurs Conservancy, the park’s official nonprofit partner.
Local activities at a glance
• June 6: Crane Lake Visitor Center Grand Opening – celebration of the park’s eastern gateway and newest visitor center.
• Summer 2025: Voyageurs Photo Contest and Summer Sweepstakes for a chance to win park-themed prizes; Scavenger Hunt on the Oberholtzer Trail (Rainy Lake Visitor Center); Special 50th Anniversary Passport Stamp at visitor centers; Limited-Edition Merchandise & Art Prints by northern Minnesota artist Sam Zimmerman; After-Dark Programs, including telescope nights and night sky tours.
• August 29–30: Voyageurs Star Party – Astronomy festival with NASA speakers, guided night sky canoe tours, telescope sessions, and more.
• Fall 2025: Symphony Premiere – Composer Marko Bajzer will debut an original orchestral piece, “Sky-Tinted Water,” inspired by Voyageurs landscapes, at various venues throughout Minnesota.
For full event listings and details, visit www.voyageurs.org/50th.
About Voyageurs Conservancy
Voyageurs Conservancy is the official charitable partner of Voyageurs National Park. The nonprofit works closely with the National Park Service to support conservation and recreation projects, advance educational outreach, and protect the wild nature of Minnesota’s only national park.