#United States #Voyageurs National Park #Voyageurs Conservancy #Dark Sky Park #International Falls

Celebrating 50 Years of Voyageurs National Park

In 2025, Voyageurs National Park will proudly commemorate its 50th anniversary, marking half a century since its establishment in April 1975. Located in northern Minnesota, this vast National Park covers over 218,000 acres of lakes, forests, and streams, making it a natural wonder and a prime location for outdoor enthusiasts.

A Year of Celebration

Voyageurs Conservancy, the park's official charitable partner, in coordination with the National Park Service (NPS), will host numerous events throughout 2025 to celebrate this significant milestone. The festivities will not only honor the park's history but also aim to foster community engagement and gratitude for the natural beauty that surrounds us. Key events and activities planned include:

• - Governor Walz's Declaration: On April 8, the Governor will proclaim it "Voyageurs National Park Day" in recognition of the park's historical importance.
• - NPS Archives Tour: Visitors are invited to tour the Voyageurs National Park Headquarters and partake in a virtual webinar on the same day, offering insights into the park's records and achievements.
• - National Park Week: From April 19-27, activities will showcase the variety of experiences available within the park, encouraging people to explore and connect with nature.
• - Voyageurs Twin Cities 50th Birthday Party: Scheduled for May 29 at Uteplis Brewing, this event will serve as a gathering point for park supporters and enthusiasts to celebrate together.
• - Merchandise Launch: Limited-edition park merchandise and prints will become available in Spring 2025, allowing visitors to take home a piece of the park's legacy.
• - 50th Anniversary Photo Contest: A summer contest will invite everyone to capture and share their unique moments spent at Voyageurs.
• - Crane Lake Visitor Center Opening: The new visitor center will open in summer 2025, enhancing the visitor experience and improving access to park information.
• - Voyageurs at the Minnesota State Fair: The park will have a presence at the state's largest fair in August, promoting its activities and attractions to a broader audience.
• - Symphony Debut: A special performance by the park's Artist-In-Residence is set for fall 2025, adding a cultural touch to the anniversary celebrations.

Preserving the Dark Skies

Voyageurs is also recognized as a certified Dark Sky Park, making it one of the best locations for stargazing in the U.S. Various programs are being launched throughout the year to engage visitors in the significance of preserving our night skies.

• - Park-After-Dark Programs: Throughout summer 2025, visitors can join regular telescope sessions and night sky tours designed to enhance their stargazing knowledge and experience.
• - Voyageurs Star Party: On August 29 and 30, this astronomy event will be highlighted by expert talks, telescope observation, and guided tours under the Milky Way.

Educational Initiatives

Voyageurs Conservancy, in collaboration with the NPS, has set forth educational programs aimed at nurturing future generations’ connection with nature. These include:

• - Voyageurs Mobile Classroom: This initiative brings environmental education directly to schools in Minnesota, making the park's wonders accessible to young learners.
• - Live Streams: Virtual learning opportunities are available for over 40,000 students nationwide, expanding the park's outreach.
• - Educator Professional Development: Workshops and retreats will be available for educators to help them include park-related topics in their curriculum.
• - Field Fellowships: Young conservation leaders will have the chance to work closely with park staff, contributing to research and education.

Honoring the Past and Looking Forward

As we commemorate this golden anniversary, Christina Hausman Rhode, Executive Director of Voyageurs Conservancy, emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the Indigenous Peoples who have historically cared for these lands and expressing gratitude to those who advocate for the park's preservation today.

Superintendent Bob DeGross adds that the park’s history is deeply intertwined with the stories of various peoples and the natural landscapes itself. The upcoming events will not only reminisce on 50 years of Voyageurs National Park but also launch a new era of engagement and protection for the environment that it represents.

To stay updated on event details and opportunities to participate in the celebrations, please visit voyageurs.org/50th. Connect with us on social media using #Voyageurs50 to share personal stories, photos, and memories, helping us to reflect on the past while looking forward to the next 50 years!

Through shared appreciation, we can ensure that the beauty of Voyageurs National Park continues to thrive for future generations, maintaining the serenity and wonder it offers to all who visit.