Voyageur Park

Located at 700 1st Ave NW

Voyageur Park, built in-part by the Pine City Lions Club and community volunteers, it graces the banks of the Snake River in Pine City. The park’s focal point is the famous 35 foot redwood Voyageur statue, carved by local area craftsman Dennis Roghair. A beautiful gazebo and second picnic shelter with tables and grills borders the Snake River. A fishing dock rests along the river bank for the public to use. Walking paths and a nature pond make this an ideal facility for outdoors enthusiasts. The park has outdoor bathroom facilities and is fully accessible to persons with disabilities. In 2009, the City added a playground area and in 2021 a two bays of swings were added. In 2010 a 9 hole, par 3, disk golf course was added. The disk golf course is suited for beginners as well as an advanced player. There are obstacles such as trees and the river which makes it more challenging. It is a free course for all to enjoy. 

Information about the Voyageur, Francois is the official name of the statue. Another name he has been given is Pierre. It began as a 42-foot tall redwood log. Resident Nancy Mach approached the sculptor, Dennis Roghair, about creating a large statue tied in with the theme of the nearby Snake River Fur Post, a Minnesota Historical Society site. The statue was carved by Mr. Roghair using only measurement tools and a chainsaw. The City of Pine City budgeted $15,000 toward the cost of the carving and the local community fundraised for the remaining costs of approximately $26,000 (total costs included $22,000 for labor and materials and $4,000 for construction of a field-stone base or pad for the carving). The voyageur statue ended up being completed on November 3, 1992.