Central Lakes Trail

The 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 All trail users should be respectful of each other, regardless of mode of travel, speed or skill level.

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.

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.

end of Broadway in Big Ole Central Park. Other trail heads are available 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

in the cities of Osakis, Garfield, are strongly recommended. Dark trails

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.

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.

CLEAN UP LITTER

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

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 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.

others.

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