Photos courtesy of Visit Detroit Lakes
Connect With Nature
Each mid-May, birds migrate to the unique habitats in the Detroit Lakes area. Tall grass prairies merge with hardwood and conifer forests, resulting in more than 250 species of birds. Go birding at the 25th annual Festival of Birds May 19-21.
Whether you’re seeking a scenic stroll or an adventurous hike, start at one of Detroit Lakes’ parks and preserves. You have plenty of space to explore on the North Country National Scenic Trail. More hiking options include trails at Dunton Locks County Park, Sucker Creek Preserve, Detroit Lakes Wetland Management District’s Prairie Marsh Trail and Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge.
Ride a Bike
Bike the multi-use Heartland Trail from Detroit Lakes east for five miles along the newly opened family-friendly paved trail. Ride through woods and prairie to a scenic overlook of Acorn Lake near Frazee. Detroit Lakes’ warmer months uncover a world of mountain biking. Feel the rush speeding down trails and across wooden ramps, and catching air on elevated features at Detroit Mountain, where you can rent your bike. The family-owned Maplelag cross-country ski resort north of Detroit Lakes has miles of trails to explore. Need a new bike or accessory? Make a stop at DL Bike Shop on Washington Avenue in Detroit Lakes before your adventure.
Giddy Up
Saddle up for a ride with a view at Timberline Ranch, only minutes from Detroit Lakes. Rides start at age 5 and horses hold anyone weighing 225 pounds or less. Daily trots are available at 9 am and 11 a.m. Guides lead you through a beautiful forested coulee and along hills for a scenic view. In its 25th year, Timberline Ranch is open May-September.
Pooch Friendly
When you bring your favorite pack member along on vacation, you’ll be delighted to find pet-friendly lodging, dining, and dog park romping. With separate fenced areas for small and large dogs, Detroit Lakes’ dog park gives your pooch plenty of running space.
Gone Fishing
With more than 400 area lakes, Detroit Lakes has an incredible array of places to have a reel good time. You can fish off the City Beach pier on Detroit Lake, or rent a boat from J&K Marina to fish in the peaceful waters. Hop aboard with a local fishing guide to make the catch of a lifetime. Return in the fall to pursue lunker muskies! Check the weekly fishing report before casting your net.
Tee Off
Are you a family of golfers? Detroit Lakes has seven golf courses that offer nine and 18 holes. If putting is more your style, Forest Hills Resort has mini-golf in addition to its 18-hole championship course. Hard ice cream and a candy shop make this a hole-in-one.
With so much to do, start planning your trip here today.
