Is the only inland water-based park in the National Park System. It is located near the center of the greatest system of interconnected waterways on earth where no roads can be found.
The natural features are fascinating. Here is the edge of the Canadian Shield, an exposed outcropping of ancient granite. These are some of the oldest rocks visible on the face of the planet. Ancient pines struggle for existence on rugged cliffs. Glacier scarred islands fill the landscape. Endless forests of towering white pines, spruce, birch and aspen soften the harshness and provide haven for the abundant wildlife. This is a timeless land. It is a place to wander and rest–to fish and sightsee. There is no better place to renew oneself than in “God’s Country.”
Our guests are often surprised by the abundance of the wildlife in the wilderness. Rainy Lake is a major nesting area for bald eagles as well as the blue herons, the majestic ospreys, cormorants, turkey vultures, gulls and a wide variety of ducks. The loons serenade you at breakfast and bedtime and the mother mergansers shepherd their covey of 20 to 30 ducklings along the shorelines.
The ambitious undertakings of beaver are routinely visible. Deer, bear and moose are frequently sighted by houseboat travelers. It is important to remember that there are no roads in this vast wilderness and the wildlife lives relatively undisturbed. The birds and animals vie with the land and water for your attention as you cruise ancient but unspoiled waterways.
Stop on one of Rainy Lake’s many sand beaches and enjoy the sun and scenery! You may choose to take a short hike on one of the trails through the Kabetogama Peninsula. Just tie up near the trailhead and set off on foot to explore the wilderness for an hour or a day. Stop to pick blueberries or watch beavers at work. If you’re a birdwatcher, you’ll think you’ve gone to heaven. But, of course, a lot of people think that anyway, when they’re on Rainy Lake!
