Where do you go when you want to catch a star-filled glimpse of the night sky? If you’re like many Minnesotans, you head to one of the state’s remote parks, usually up north. Others may head to areas known for their starry skies, like the Boundary Water or the small town of McGregor. Today, we’d like to add another entry to that list. The International Dark Sky Association, an organization that recognizes places free of light pollution, has designated Minnesota’s only national park as an International Dark Sky Park. Voyageurs National Park is one of the best places not only in Minnesota but in the entire world, to see the stars. Read on below about this incredible place:

Voyageurs National Park is a 218,000-acre national park in northern Minnesota. Given its remote location - and the fact that much of the park is only accessible by boat - Voyageurs draws fewer visitors than many other national parks.

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The main draw of Voyageurs is its lakes. The park is made up of four large lakes and many smaller lakes. Boating and fishing are popular activities.

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Of course, that’s not the only reason to visit Voyageurs. The park is full of beauty around every corner, making it a photographer’s or nature lover’s dream. There are few things better than watching the sun set over one of the park’s pristine lakes.

Fighting Irish 1977/Flickr

For some, the only thing better is when the sun fully sets. In the dark sky, millions of stars come out.

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Because of the quality of the view, the International Dark Sky Association has named Voyageurs National Park an International Dark Sky Park.

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Few other parks in the world make the list. Other examples in the United States include Grand Canyon National Park and Death Valley National Park.

David Fulmer/Flickr

The amazing nighttime views available at Voyageurs make it a must-visit spot for Minnesota nature lovers. In the daytime, enjoy the beauty of the untouched lakes. And at night, take in the incredible, star-spotted dark sky!

David Fulmer/Flickr

Have you ever been to Voyageurs National Park? Where are your other favorite places to see the stars in Minnesota? Let us know in the comments!

J. Stephen Conn/Flickr

Jasperdo/Flickr

Fighting Irish 1977/Flickr

jck_photos/Flickr

David Fulmer/Flickr

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Address: Voyageurs National Park, International Falls, MN 56649, USA