CENTRAL LAKES trail
T
he Central Lakes Trail is a paved biking and walking trail that spans Douglas County from Osakis through Evansville and on to Fergus Falls in Otter Tail County. The 55-mile-long trail, located on the old Burlington Northern rail line grade, connects the cities of Osakis, Nelson, Alexandria, Garfield, Brandon, Evansville and Melby in Douglas County. Great for walking, running, bicycling, in-line skating, roller skiing, wheelchairs and more, the trail is open to non-motorized visitors, with the exception of snowmobiles in the winter. The trail head and parking area in Alexandria are located at the north end of Broadway in Big Ole Central Park. Other trail heads are available in the cities of Osakis, Garfield,
Brandon and Evansville. These trail heads include a parking area, portable restrooms and a trailside shelter. A bike shelter is also available along the trail about one and one-half miles east of Nelson. The trail travels through or near woodlands, grasslands, lakes, wetlands and farm country. Those traveling along the trail may see a variety of wildflowers, wildlife and many different trees and plants. The Central Lakes Trail also connects to the Lake Wobegon trail, which runs from Osakis through Sauk Centre to St. Joseph. Together, they make the longest paved bike trail in the state. The Central Lakes Trail (www.centrallakestrail.com) is used as a snowmobile trail in the winter.
SHARE THE TRAIL BE COURTEOUS All trail users should be respectful of each other, regardless of mode of travel, speed or skill level.
PASS ON THE LEFT Just like a roadway, always pass trail users on the left side and only when it is safe and clear to do so.
RIGHT OF WAY Know the specific rules of your trail, which may be local, county, regional or state controlled. In general, cyclists should yield to all other users.
USE CAUTION AT CROSSINGS There are many types of trail crossings in Minnesota, and they can be very dangerous when not paying full attention. Watch for signage and yield to cross traffic. If there are multiple lanes or blind spots, use extra caution.
SIGNAL WHEN PASSING Bells are great to use when farther back, especially when followed by a greeting, “Good morning, I’ll be passing on your left side” as you approach. Yelling “On yer left” while passing at full speed is neither courteous nor safe.
30 August/September 2020 • Vacationer
BE PREDICTABLE Trails can be great for training, but trails are for everyone. Never sacrifice your own or someone else’s safety for convenience. On busy weekends and evenings, fast training may be best left to the road. Signal your intentions and be sensitive to others.
USE LIGHTS AT NIGHT Some trails may be closed after dark. If open, a white headlight is required along with a rear red reflector. Red taillights are strongly recommended. Dark trails can require brighter lights to see hazards. DO NOT BLOCK THE TRAIL Group rides are fun, but don’t take up more than your half of the trail. This often means riding single file on the trails. CLEAN UP LITTER Don’t leave trash on the trail and pick up items (especially glass or other potentially hazardous debris) to make the trail a better place for everyone. From HaveFunBiking.com
