Glacial Ridge Trail

from Vacationer August/September 2020

Lakes

GLACIAL RIDGE TRAIL travel a scenic byway

A220-mile route through lakes, woods and farmlands, the Glacial Ridge Trail is officially designated a Minnesota State Scenic Byway and is a great getaway for those looking for a relaxing drive.

This byway consists of several loops in the countryside between Willmar and Glenwood, with extensions to Alexandria and Sauk Centre for a total of 245 miles and allows you to create your own adventure.

Travelers can select their own points of interest along the drive through rolling terrain filled with lakes, woods, prairie and farmland – scenes that change with the seasons.

Highlighted by three state parks – Sibley, Monson and Glacial Lakes – the byway has plenty of great stopping spots good for hiking, bird watching and fishing.

The area was formed by massive glaciers as they covered the land then melted, leaving behind many unique ridges and hills.

When the United States expanded westward in the 1850s, settlers moved into the area and have left their mark through their rich cultural history.

To find out more about the scenic byway, visit www. glacialridgebyway.com