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Time To Celebrate 50 Golden Years Of Voyageurs National Park
Turning 50 is kind of a big deal, even when you’re a national park… cue the confetti and awkwardly frosted cake! Voyageurs National Park has been doing its thing for half a century now, quietly (or not-so-quietly) showing off its unmatched charm and wild beauty. And it’s birthday is coming up tomorrow, April 8th.
Sure, it doesn’t come with party hats or balloons, but honestly, it isn’t the kind of place to seek attention; it lets the lakes, forests, and skies do all the talking. What’s crazy is, most people still have no idea what they’re missing out on. But hey, that’s a topic for another day.
For now, just know there’s a milestone worth celebrating, and yes, you’re cordially invited to enjoy it all (minus the cheesy RSVP cards). Feel free to drop a comment when you’re done reading, and let us know if you have visited this spectacular park.
About The Park
First off, if you’re not familiar with Voyageurs National Park, where have you been? Sitting at over 218,000 acres, it’s an incredible place. We’re talking shimmering lakes, lush forests, and enough star-studded skies to make you wonder why you’ve been paying for streaming services all this time.
Recognized as a Dark Sky Park, it’s one of those rare spots where the stars actually look like stars – bright, twinkly, and utterly dramatic.
Established back in 1975, Voyageurs was (and still is) a tribute to the adventurous French-Canadian fur traders who navigated the area in long, narrow canoes. And yes, they probably had better upper body strength than anyone reading this.
But these days, it’s less about fur trading and more about paddling, camping, and wondering how to say “kayak selfie” in French. Name a water-based activity, and this park has it (fishing, boating, canoeing, etc), plus enough underrated hiking trails to make your FitBit scream for mercy.
Oh, and did I mention its serene silence? It’s the kind of quiet that makes you stop and appreciate the world before your phone buzzes. Add to that the fact that you will definitely see bald eagles (and possibly bears); this place is not to be missed.
With Voyageurs gearing up for its golden celebration, Minnesota’s Governor Tim Walz even declared April 8, 2025, as “Voyageurs National Park Day.” That’s right, an entire day dedicated to honoring this treasure. Eat your heart out, National Pizza Day.
Key Events
Now, on to the good stuff – the lineup of events for this grand extravaganza.
NPS Archives Tour (April 8)
Ever wanted a backstage pass to history? Ok, maybe not the rock star kind, but this is still pretty cool. The NPS Archives Tour lets you sneak a peek at the park’s historical artifacts with archivist Catherine Crawford leading the charge.
She knows more about the park’s history than most people know about their family tree. There’s an open house in International Falls as well as a virtual webinar for those who’d rather celebrate from their couch. Just make sure your internet doesn’t cut out during the good parts.
Oberholtzer Trail Scavenger Hunt (This Spring, TBD)
Trail hunting meets treasure hunting with this playful spring scavenger hunt. Complete the trail missions to earn a 50th-anniversary prize. And no, the prize isn’t just a pat on the back – it’s something worth the trek.
Plus, there’s nothing quite like cruising along the Oberholtzer Trail while trying to outwit your friends. Bring snacks, a sense of adventure, and maybe a map.
50th Birthday Party In Minneapolis (May, TBD)
A birthday party with beer? Say less. Head over to Utepils Brewery in May, where the celebration levels up with live music, exhibits, and their special anniversary brew… a beer crafted specifically for the national park. I mean, could there be a cooler way to honor Voyageurs?
Photo Contest & Sweepstakes
For those feeling a tad competitive, the Voyageurs Conservancy is hosting a photo contest where you can show off your best shots of the park. Pro tip: It helps if your photos don’t feature your thumb in the corner. Just saying.
There’s also the Voyageurs 50th Summer Sweepstakes, where lucky winners might score a summer getaway, cool merch, or bragging rights for life.
Limited-Edition Park Merchandise
For all the souvenir hoarders out there – you know who you are – there’s an exciting lineup of limited-edition Voyageurs 50th merch. We’re talking 50th-anniversary passport stamps, new art prints, and enough collectibles to fill your post-vacation gallery wall.
Heads up to anyone who underestimates gift shops… you’re destined to leave with a tote bag full of treasures.
Raise A Canteen Campaign (All Year)
Imagine joining a movement that involves (yep, you guessed it) raising a canteen in the park’s name. This year-long campaign isn’t just about sharing memories; it’s also an excuse to toast the park using the hashtag #Voyageurs50.
Because what’s an anniversary without people snapping photos and writing captions that make you say, “I need to go there right now”?
National Park Week (April 19-27)
And if the list above doesn’t have you hyped enough, expect even more programs and events that highlight Voyageurs’ legacy during National Park Week.
While the full details are still under wraps (because there’s got to be some suspense, right?), you can bet there will be fun, nostalgia, and perhaps an awkward group photo or two.
So mark your calendar for the events, dust off your hiking boots, and maybe practice your beer-raising arm. After all, this park doesn’t turn 50 every day.
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