Central Lakes State Trail

1992 and over the next 12 years, it was cleared of railroad trappings and paved with asphalt at a cost of $3.2 million.

Along its 55-mile route, the trail touches the communities of Fergus Falls, Dalton, Ashby, Melby, Evansville, Brandon, Garfield, Alexandria, Nelson and Osakis in the counties of Otter Tail, Grant and Douglas.

No motorized vehicles are allowed on the trail in the spring, summer and autumn making the trail a haven for walkers, runners, bikers, rollerbladers, roller skiers and wheelchairs. Once the snow flies the trail becomes a route for snowmobile traffic.

The real charm of the trail is the countryside it winds through. Farms, fields, lakes, rivers, woodlands and grasslands are all there for viewing. It offers a look at many of the beauties of the “Land of 10,000 Lakes.”

The Central Lakes State Trail also brings people into touch with wildlife of all kinds including deer, fox, beaver, rabbits, moles, turtles, eagles, ducks, muskrats and a wide variety of songbirds.

The fastest summertime traffic on the trail tends to be bikers. Snowmobile traffic also tends to be brisk. Trail traffic should also be aware of road crossings.

For the most part, a visitor to the Central Lakes State Trail hears, smells, feels and sees the world around them. Some sections of the trail are heavily shaded in the warm weather months and plant life is plentiful. Minnesota’s state flower, the pink lady slipper, can be found along the trail along with the yellow lady slipper. Honeysuckle and plum bushes can also be found.

There are places to rest along the trail as well as seek food and water. Restrooms, shelters, picnic tables and parking areas are also available.

The Central Lakes State Trail is the 23rd state trail and connects with the Lake Wobegon Trail which runs 48 miles from Osakis to St. Joseph. From the Lake Wobegon Trail a traveler can reach the Morrison County Trail. The total length of these trails is approximately 130 miles.

MATHEW HOLDING EAGLE / RESORTER TRAIL SIGN: Parking is available at the beginning of the Central Lakes State Trail in Fergus Falls. Runners, walkers and bikers can spend a few hours or a day on the trail.

ICE CREAM CAKES

available for your summer fun!

8” round serves 8-10 -10 -1 10 10” round serves 12-16 2-16

300119

Banana Split and Peanut Buster Par fait

719 E. VERNON, FERGUS FALLS • 218-736-5737 719 E VERNON FERGUS F “Where the coffee and food are served with a smile.”

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Well Drilling, Inc.

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Ashby, MN

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Elle Habberstad

27685 Co. Hwy. 35 Underwood, MN 56586 218-826-6571 • 218-731-1483

300169

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917 Pebble Lake Road • Fergus Falls Phone 218-739-3448 Store hours: Mon-Sat 9:30am-5:30pm 410 Douglas Ave • Henning Sto Phone 218-548-3200 Store hours: Wed-Sat 10:00am-4:00pm Donations accepted Monday-Saturday 10:00am-3:00 pm

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