Shell Rock River Water Trail

A pelican skims the water as if it were water skiing on Albert Lea Lake. Numerous wildlife are visible from the Shell Rock River Water Trail, which includes both Fountain Lake and Albert Lea lakes and goes to the Iowa border. Colleen Harrison/albert lea tribune

Shell Rock River State Water Trail spans 20 miles

Designated in 2016, the Shell Rock River State Water Trail is a 20-mile water trail that travels through central Freeborn County to the Iowa border.

It begins at the headwaters of Fountain Lake in Albert Lea, travels across Albert Lea Lake, eventually tapering to a narrow river corridor, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. It travels through the city of Albert Lea, MyreBig Island State Park, the city of Glenville and two wildlife management areas before arriving at the Minnesota-Iowa border.

Fishing for panfish, walleye, northern pike and channel catfish can be plentiful along the trail, especially in the main bodies of Fountain and Albert Lea lakes, in the deeper channels and below the dams, according to the DNR.

“Natural life abounds along the Shell Rock River and surrounding lakes. Wooded shores harbor mammals such as the gray fox, red fox, coyote, raccoon, skunk and white tail deer. River otter, beaver, muskrat and mink can be spotted along banks or in the water,” the department stated in a brochure about the state water trail. “Reptiles are common too, with snapping, painted and softshell turtles all calling the river home.”

Waterfowl and other birds — such as ducks, geese, pelicans, herons and bald eagles, to name a few — can also be seen.