The Fall months are the best time for kayaking in Minnesota. Some of the most spectacular views, less crowds and the absence of pesky bugs are perfect aspects for a trip. Temperatures during the fall are still warm with abundant cool breezes around you as you're kayaking on Minnesota rivers or lakes. Kayaking is the preferred method of transportation, along with canoeing, when exploring Minnesota lakes and rivers.

The Lake Superior Water Trail is on the biggest fresh water lake in the world. More then 30,000 square surface miles stretch along the border between Canada and the United States. An abundance of cultural heritage and natural history and offer paddlers a rare experience when kayaking in Minnesota. Always make sure to make a good plan for bail-outs incase of extreme weather and pack a camp stove, warm clothing and shelter if an emergency forces you into camping until the weather changes.

At the Boundary Waters Canoe Area, north of Duluth, there are many opportunities for kayaking Minnesota rivers. There are so many routes to choose from here that you'll definitely have to do some research before choosing the best one for you. When kayaking Minnesota rivers here Clearwater Lake is a great choice for a challenge. Pine Alder Loop will take about two days to complete and spans 18 miles. For a three day trip kayaking in Minnesota choose the Clearwater-Royal-Moose Loop. It's an arduous yet gratifying loop spanning 38 miles and takes about three days.

Minnesota Map

Kayaking on Minnesota Rivers can be enjoyed near Lake Vermillion. The Vermillion River flows from the main lake over forty miles and ends at Crane Lake. Rapids are classed from one to five along the way. There are several portages to complete along the route when kayaking Minnesota rivers here but most aren't too long and are well traveled. There is little current along the quiet, long stretches where beautiful scenes of bedrock and bluffs along the riverbanks can be seen. This area is also excellent for fishing for those who want to stop and try their luck.

Kayaking in Minnesota can also be relished in Voyageurs National Park north of Two Harbors. This is a water-based park where visitors have to take to the waterways for a full experience of the shoreline, islands and lakes in the vast wilderness area. The many interconnected waterways provide an unsurpassed opportunity to explore the lush vegetation and bountiful wildlife around the northwoods region. Outfitters in the park offer many things to do. Kayaking on Minnesota rivers here can be done solo or on a guided tour. There are many trips to choose from including half day, full day, sunset kayaking, overnight trips and more.

There aren't any fees to pay when kayaking on Minnesota rivers at Voyageurs National Park. With more than 200,000 acres and 1,600 islands camping here while on a kayak trip is idyllic. More then 210 designated sites for camping allow for a great choice in overnight stays. Kayaking in Minnesota at this park is excellent for beginners as most of the water routes are sheltered, rather then open water, making the trip easier for first-timers.

Other great places for kayaking in Minnesota include the Detroit Lakes where canoes and kayaks can easily be rented. Root River Valley offers fantastic kayaking along the river as well. Many Minnesota resorts offer canoe and kayak rentals so you can discover more of the area you're visiting via lakes and rivers. There are enough kayaking routes to choose from so different levels of kayakers can compromise and decide on the most suitable journey. Kayaking in Minnesota can be an extremely rewarding experience and an excellent way to experience the states beautiful, natural areas.