Exploring Rainy River & Boat Launches

A wide river in Minnesota bordered by dense green trees and rocky shores under a clear sky, with text reading “Exploring Rainy River” and a small “Rainy Lake” logo in the top right corner. | Rainy Lake, MN

Exploring Rainy River The Rainy River forms part of the border between Minnesota and Ontario and is a haven for anglers and boaters of all stripes. Perhaps best known for […]

Facts About Rainy

Aerial view of Minnesota’s Rainy Lake with numerous tree-covered islands and calm blue water. A boat creates a wake, while a tall observation tower rises among the trees on one of the islands. | Rainy Lake, MN

Rainy Lake and Rainy River offer a host of activities for outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year, from fishing and boating to snowmobiling and skiing. The following are some basic – […]

Boat Landing Accesses on Rainy Lake

A scenic aerial view of Rainy Lake in Minnesota, bordered by lush green trees, with a small marina, parked boats, and RVs along the water's edge under a partly cloudy sky. | Rainy Lake, MN

Located along the Rainy River in International Falls, Pat Roche Landing sits behind the Voyageurs National Park Headquarters (this is not the Rainy Lake Visitor Center) and provides convenient access […]

Hospitality Excellence Award

A promotional flyer for the 2026 Hospitality Excellence Award, featuring gold and white text on a dark blue background with a gold seal, announces nomination and event details for International Falls, Rainier & Rainy Lake, Minnesota. | Rainy Lake, MN

Hospitality is at the heart of what makes the Rainy Lake area such a special place to visit and to call home. It’s the individuals throughout our community who help […]

Rainy Lake Fishing “Cheat Sheet”

Four people in winter clothing kneel on a frozen Minnesota lake, smiling and holding several fish each. More fish are arranged on the ice in front of them, with two off-road vehicles parked nearby—an unforgettable day on Rainy Lake. | Rainy Lake, MN

Lake Sturgeon Once nearly wipe out of the Rainy River, sturgeon are now a very popular fish for anglers. These fish are famous for their large size and unique appearance. […]

Wildlife in Northern Minnesota

A common loon with black-and-white plumage floats on calm green water in Minnesota’s Rainy Lake, with a blurred green background. | Rainy Lake, MN

Rainy Lake and Voyageurs is home to many iconic North Woods species like whitetail deer, bear, moose, bobcats, wolves, and beavers. However, a hidden gem of this area can be found […]

15 Must See Stops Heading North on Highway 53

A large yellow mining dump truck is parked outdoors on gravel near Rainy Lake, Minnesota. Four people, including two children, stand by the truck, highlighting its massive size beneath a cloudy sky. | Rainy Lake, MN

We know… it’s already a long drive from Twin Cities to the Rainy Lake area. But for travelers with extra time (or those looking to truly experience the Northwoods), these […]

Keep It Clean

A snow-covered frozen lake at sunrise or sunset on Rainy Lake, Minnesota, features an ice fishing hut, a snowmobile, and an ATV. Tire and track marks crisscross the snow as distant trees line the horizon. | Rainy Lake, MN

Ice Fishing Season Is Here on Rainy Lake — Let’s Keep It Clean As winter settles in across the Rainy Lake area, anglers are once again heading out onto the […]

Icebox Days

Logo for the 46th Annual Icebox Days in International Falls, Minnesota, featuring large icy blue text with icicles and a frosty background. The year 2026 appears in the design, highlighting Minnesota’s chilly charm near Rainy Lake. | Rainy Lake, MN

Welcome to the wacky winter festival known as Icebox Days – an annual celebration staged in what the world knows as the “Icebox of the Nation.” That trademarked moniker, given […]