Photos by John Magnoski, courtesy Explore Alexandria Tourism
The Alexandria Lakes Area is known for lots of fun ways to get outside and enjoy the great outdoors. With more than 350 lakes, miles and miles of trails, great fishing, biking, and more, it comes as no surprise that Alexandria is a prime Minnesota destination for summer vacations.
Summertime in Minnesota means lake time! Hundreds of lakes in the Alexandria area makes it easy to get out on the water. Paddle the small chain of lakes just west of Alexandria, or rent a boat and cruise the main chain of lakes on Lake Darling, Lake Le Homme Dieu, Lake Carlos, Lake Geneva, and Lake Victoria. Take a break and dock up to one of the lakeside restaurants for a bite to eat and cold drinks.
Alexandria is also a fantastic place to hit the trails. Hiking enthusiasts will enjoy Lake Carlos State Park, with over 14 miles of trails that will get you deep in the woods, out to some grasslands, and along the shores of Lake Carlos. If mountain biking is more your speed, pedal Kensington Runestone Park or Lake Brophy Park’s designated mountain bike trails. Kensington Runestone Park consists of 304 acres of wooded, gently rolling land with trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Lake Brophy Park has trails that traverse glacial hills in the open air with breathtaking views of multiple surrounding lakes.
Meandering through glacial hills, lakeside views, diverse woods, and open prairie, the Central Lakes Trail provides 55 miles of adventure. This trail is a former railroad line turned into a paved trail, so you can enjoy a nice, flat ride. Cruise by nine lakes within a 4-mile radius of Alexandria’s downtown trailhead and grab a refreshing drink at Copper Trail Brewery after the ride. Whether it’s biking, blading, running, or walking, this trail is a must-do.
No matter if you are new to golf or a seasoned pro, you’ll have more than 150 holes to play at courses on the Chain of Links Golf Trail. Numerous scenic courses in the area make Alexandria one of the best places in Minnesota to hit the links. (Plus, visitors get 10% off golf and cart.)
Get the true cabin experience when you stay at one of the areas many lakeside resorts, try something unique at an area bed & breakfast, or unwind and take in the comfy amenities at a local hotel.
Come this summer and see for yourself why Alexandria was voted Minnesota’s Best Town. The hospitality, outdoor activities, fun events, downtown shopping, trails, and hundreds of lakes makes for a great getaway.
