Detroit Lakes Minnesota
Early development of the Northern Pacific Railroad brought new visitors to many areas in Western Minnesota. The Detroit Lakes area, much like many of the surrounding towns, formed around this booming railroad in 1871. Detroit Lakes is packed with opportunities for the devoted outdoor enthusiast. The 412 area lakes are home to a variety of game fish such as the muskie, bass, crappy, sunfish, trout and bluegills. In Detroit Lakes, you have multiple options for family fun with 9 area golf courses, a miniature golf course, amusement parks, go-karts, arcades and game rooms.
A wonderful feature of Detroit Lakes is the abundance of beautiful parks and wildlife refuges that are in the area. Below is a sample of what you can find at each location.
Maple State Park- This 9,264 acre park includes a 20 mile horseback riding trail, a 25 mile trail for hiking and biking, 13 miles of groomed winter skiing trails and 15 miles of snowmobile trails. You don't want to miss this park in the fall! Only 25 minutes south of Detroit Lakes.
- A 32,690 acre park with almost every outdoor activity available. The list includes skiing, snowmobiling, hiking, biking, fishing, boating and camping.
- The wetland and native grassland areas provide excellent opportunities for bird watching during spring and fall seasons.
- 40,000 acres of wetland and prairie land are managed by the DL Wetland Management District. Just a mile from Detroit Lakes is the district headquarters with a 93-acre wetland. Popular with hikers and bird watchers is the 1.5 mile marsh trail.
Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge
- 20 lakes, 3 rivers and thousands of marshes make up this 43,000 acre refuge. More then 250 bird species share this home with deer, black bears, moose, wolves and many other interesting animals. Just 18 miles northeast of Detroit Lakes.
Detroit Lakes own City Park and City Beach are also excellent recreational hot spots. The pavilion at City Park has been a landmark in Detroit Lakes for many years. Aside from the fantastic mile long beach, there are picnic tables, disc golf, softball, basketball, shuffleboard and tennis courts available for endless hours of enjoyment. With all the pristine lakes and endless opportunities for entertainment, Detroit Lakes would be a truly wonderful place to call your home.
