Download: Central Lakes Trail Map PDF
Visit: The Central Lakes Trail Website
Lodging: Alexandria MN Resorts, Fergus Falls Resorts & Lake Osakis Resorts

Some activities and attractions along the Central Lakes Trail include:
1. Biking: The trail is popular among bicyclists of all skill levels, with its flat terrain and well-maintained surface making it a great option for a leisurely bike ride or a more challenging workout.

2. Hiking: The trail is also suitable for hikers looking to explore the picturesque landscapes and various ecosystems along the route.

3. Birdwatching: The Central Lakes Trail passes through a variety of habitats, making it a great spot for birdwatching. Keep an eye out for songbirds, waterfowl, raptors, and other bird species along the trail.

4. Picnicking: There are several rest areas and picnic spots along the trail where visitors can take a break, enjoy a packed lunch, and soak in the surrounding natural beauty.

5. Fishing: The trail passes by several lakes and waterways, providing opportunities for fishing enthusiasts to cast a line and try their luck at catching fish.

6. Wildlife Viewing: The trail traverses through forests, wetlands, and open fields, offering the chance to spot various wildlife species such as deer, foxes, turtles, and more.

7. Local Attractions: Along the trail, you’ll pass through charming towns and communities, where you can explore local shops, restaurants, and attractions, adding to your overall trail experience.

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2. Boating: The lake has over 40,000 acres of water to explore, making it a popular destination for boating enthusiasts. There are several marinas and boat rental options available.

3. Hiking: The surrounding area offers numerous hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging treks. The Superior National Forest also provides opportunities for backpacking and camping.

4. Golfing: There are several golf courses located near Lake Vermilion, offering beautiful views and challenging courses for golfers of all skill levels. Local golf courses include The Wilderness at Fortune Bay, Vermilion Fairways Golf Course and Wolfridge Golf Course.

5. Soudan Underground Mine State Park: Travel 2,341 feet down an old mine shaft to the 27^th level of the Soudan Underground Mine for a unique tour under Minnesota’s Iron Range. Travel into the mine on authentic, well maintained hoisting equipment, followed by an underground train ride a mile into the Montana stope, the last working area of the mine.

6. Wildlife viewing: The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, loons, deer, and black bears. Birdwatching opportunities are plentiful, especially during migration seasons.

7. Scenic drives: Take a leisurely drive around the lake to enjoy the stunning views of the water and surrounding forests. The fall foliage is particularly beautiful, making it a popular time for scenic drives.

8. Shopping and dining: The nearby towns of Tower and Cook offer a variety of shopping and dining options, including local boutiques, gift shops, and restaurants serving up fresh, locally-sourced cuisine.

9. Tower Train & Depot Museum: This center includes a museum in the historic train depot, a steam locomotive, a railway passenger car, caboose, and a two-room homesteaders log cabin. The Depot, built in 1915, has been kept in near original condition.

10. Fortune Bay Casino: Fortune Bay offers 2 floors of gaming excitement, as well as blackjack and other table games. Concerts and/or special events monthly. Gaming casino open 24 hours,7 days a week.

11. Bois Forte Heritage Center: The Bois Forte Heritage Center & Cultural Museum is located on the shores of Lake Vermilion and on the grounds of the Fortune Bay Casino. The museum, owned and operated by the Bois Forte Band, is dedicated to telling the Bois Forte Ojibwe story, as our name, Atisokanigamig, or Legend House, implies.

Overall, Lake Vermilion offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Explore Lake Vermilion MN Resorts!

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1. Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness: Ely is the gateway to the Boundary Waters, a vast wilderness area perfect for canoeing, fishing, camping, and hiking.

2. International Wolf Center: Learn about wolves and their habitat at this educational center, which features live wolf exhibits and educational programs.

3. North American Bear Center: Another wildlife center in Ely, this facility focuses on educating visitors about bears and their conservation.

4. Dorothy Molter Museum: Explore the life of Dorothy Molter, the last resident of the Boundary Waters, at this museum dedicated to her legacy.

5. White Iron Chain of Lakes: Enjoy water activities like boating, fishing, and swimming on the interconnected lakes in the area.

6. Kawishiwi Falls Trail: Take a hike to the picturesque Kawishiwi Falls and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding forest.

7. Ely Arts & Heritage Center: Visit this cultural center to see local art exhibits and learn about the history of Ely.

8. Shopping and dining in downtown Ely: Explore the shops and restaurants in the charming downtown area of Ely.

9. Ely-Winton Historical Society: Discover the history of the Ely area at this local museum, which features exhibits on mining, logging, and more.

10. Listening Point: Visit this tranquil spot on Burntside Lake, made famous by conservationist and author Sigurd Olson.

Search for Ely MN Resorts & Outfitters!

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1. Carlos Creek Winery: Visit this popular winery for tastings, tours, and events in a beautiful setting overlooking the vineyard. https://www.carloscreekwinery.com/

2. Runestone Museum: Learn about the famous Kensington Runestone and other artifacts at this museum dedicated to Norse history.

3. Big Ole Statue: Take a photo with the iconic 28-foot-tall Viking statue that is a symbol of Alexandria.

4. Central Lakes Trail: Explore this scenic 55-mile trail that runs through the heart of Alexandria, perfect for biking, walking, or running. https://www.centrallakestrail.com/

5. Lake Carlos State Park: Enjoy hiking, fishing, and swimming at this picturesque state park located on the shores of Lake Carlos. Lake Carlos State Park

6. Kensington Runestone Park: Visit this park to see a replica of the Kensington Runestone and read about the history of this mysterious artifact.

7. Casey’s Amusement Park: Spend a day at this family-friendly amusement park with rides, mini-golf, arcade games, and more. Casey’s Amusement Park

8. Douglas County Historical Society: Discover the history of Alexandria and Douglas County at this museum, housed in a restored 19th-century building.

9. Shopping and dining in downtown Alexandria: Explore the charming shops, restaurants, and cafes in the downtown area, perfect for a leisurely day of browsing and dining.

10. Golfing: Hit the links at one of the many golf courses in the Alexandria area, including the Alexandria Golf Club and Geneva Golf Club.

Alexandria MN Resorts & Lodging

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Be sure to take in the beauty of the old growth pine at Preacher’s Grove. The scenic view at Peace Pipe Vista is one you will want to photograph to remember your visit. Over 100 lakes in the area provide plenty of Northwoods scenery for communing with nature.

The Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center is open from 10 am to 5 pm Monday through Sunday. It features information about the area and an interactive play for children. The fireplace lounge provides an impressive view for birdwatching through the large observation windows. Relax and enjoy the show nature provides while you watch for such birds as the Black-backed Woodpecker, Alder Flycatcher and Common Loon, just to name a few.

The park also offers overnight accommodations at the historic Douglas Lodge. Since its construction in 1905, guests have been welcomed in the grand lobby, which features a beautiful stone fireplace. Guest rooms are rustically furnished reminiscent of the early days of the lodge. Cabins are also available and located throughout the park.

Campers are invited to stay at one of the many campgrounds managed by the park. Over 200 campsites are available for your pleasure. MN State Parks provides approved firewood to campers to prevent the spread of tree-killing insects. You can purchase firewood during business hours at the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center.

Itasca is ideal for family relaxation time, mental health getaway or a couples retreat.

Lodging & Resorts Near Itasca State Park

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Cass Lake MN Resorts
Park Rapids MN Resorts
Detroit Lakes MN Resorts

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Gooseberry Falls Hiking & Biking Trails

Throughout the year, Gooseberry Falls is a place for hiking, bicycling, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. There are 20 miles of hiking trails, 12 miles for cross-country skiers and 2 miles of snowmobile trails. Be sure to bring your camera along, because the trails follow along the Gooseberry River. You will encounter aspen, stands of cedar, spruce and pine forests. Be prepared for breathtaking scenes of nature at its finest in Minnesota.

Gooseberry Falls Hiking Trail Map PDF
Gooseberry Falls Snowmobile Trail Map PDF

The Magnificent Gooseberry Falls Waterfalls

There are five magnificent waterfalls located in the park. Three of these amazing falls are created by a rocky gorge where the Gooseberry River runs through on its way to Lake Superior. Take a hike on the trails to get the best view of the falls. If you do not mind getting wet, you may even want to wade in the river where the current is mild for a different vantage point. No matter what time of year you visit, the
falls are always worth the trip.

Looking for Lodging? Browse Minnesota’s North Shore Resorts

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The Harmony-Preston trail starts in Harmony, MN and then passes through Preston, MN and meets up with the Root River Trail just East of Lanesboro, MN. The trail is 17.8 miles long and navigates through the scenic bluff country of Southeastern Minnesota. Like the Root River trail it is open to hikers, biker & in-line skaters in the spring, summer & fall months. In the winter months the trail is open to cross-country skiing, don’t forget your ski pass in the winter.

You will find access points in the various communities along both trails along with several rest areas and camping sites available for public use. Please camp only in designated camp sites marked along the trail. Also please clean up after yourself and respect adjoining private landowner’s rights.

Download the Rooter River & Harmony-Preston Trail Map PDF
Find Resorts & Lodging Near Lanesboro MN!

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The trails are open throughout the spring, summer & falls months, however sometimes temporary trail closures do happen due to weather, area events, logging or road work. To get up to the minute details and updates on trail closures you can subscribe to the MN DNR Email List to get updates on a variety of topics.

All OHV’s must be registered with the State of MN, non-residents can get a trail pass to ride on state or grant-in-aid trails through the MN DNR. For more information on the rules please download the OHV/ATV Rules & Regulations PDF.

Search for Minnesota Resorts & Lodging here when planning your next OHV & ATV trip.

Minnesota ATV & OHV Trail Maps

Download OHV & ATV trail maps from the MN DNR. Click on the map below to view an interactive trail map.

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Be sure to get your horse pass before your ride the trail, in the winter months you will need a snowmobile state trail sticker. You can purchase you passes from the DNR Online Licencing System.  Access locations can be found in Park Rapids, Dorset, Akeley, Walker, Erickson’s Landing on Leech Lake, Steamboat Landing and in Cass Lake. Rest areas can be found along the trail or in nearby parks in the communities along the trail.

Download The Heartland Trail Map PDF!

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The trail has over 22 access points spread throughout the Iron Range with each city along the trail having a parking and trail access point. A wheel pass is needed for anyone over 18 years of age to bike the trail, while foot travel is free for all,  you can purchase your wheel pass online from the Mesabi Trail Shop. You can also purchase wheel passes locally at Bikes on Howard in Hibbing, Itasca Trail Sports in Grand Rapids  & Mesabi Recreation in Virginia. There are self pay boxes where you can get a 3 day pass in Grand Rapids, Bovey, Calumet, Keewatin, Hibbing, Buhl, Mountain Iron, Virginia, Eveleth, Giants Ridge (near Biwabik) entry point kiosks.

During the spring, summer & fall the trail is open to hiking, biking, inline skating and any other form of non-motorized travel. During the winter months many sections of  the trail are open to snowmobiles and connect to Minnesota’s Snowmobile Trail System. Sections not open to snowmobiles will be posted with no motorized vehicle signs.

Download a Mesabi Trail Map PDF and enjoy the trail!

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