Discover Minnesota’s Vast Lake: A Summer Retreat with Secluded Cabins in Voyageurs National Park

Minnesota is heaven for lovers of the great outdoors — it is the Land of 10,000 Lakes, after all. Whether you visit Lake Superior on a scenic road trip or the Boundary Waters, a remote Minnesota wilderness in the northern part of the state, there are incredible natural landscapes to explore. Tucked away in underrated Voyageurs National Park is a unique spot: Kabetogama Lake.

Kabetogama Lake is one of four major lakes in Voyageurs National Park; it’s approximately 25,000 acres and has some 200 islands. The sprawling lake is 15 miles long, with lots to see and do on and off the water. Voyageurs National Park is the only national park in the state of Minnesota. Named after the French Canadian voyageurs who historically transported goods for fur trapping companies in this area (“voyageur” is French for “traveler”), the park was created in 1975. It’s also Minnesota’s only International Dark Sky Park.

Kabetogama Lake — or Kab, as the locals call it — is a top destination to visit, especially in the summer season. While there are snowmobile and cross-country ski trails for those who brave the cold temps and visit in winter, summer is its best season. Hike routes such as the 2.4-mile Echo Bay trail for scenic beauty in the forest; experienced backcountry hikers can try the remote, 4-mile Locator Lake Trail, which is accessible only by boat. Swimming is also a fun summer activity — the sandy beach at Herseth’s Tomahawk Resort is popular, as is the beach at Woodenfrog Day-Use Area.

Given Kabetogama Lake’s remote location, you have a good chance at spotting wildlife here. You may see otters, bears, and wolves as you explore the shores; eagles, pelicans, and loons are some of the birdlife you might spot. Anglers will love casting a line on Lake Kabetogama — walleye, northern pike, bass, and crappies are some of the fish you can catch. If you’re really lucky, you might see the northern lights dancing across the sky; Minnesota is one of the top states for seeing the northern lights, thanks to its location in the north.