Otter Trail Scenic Byway
Another popular trail route Fergus Falls is part of is the Otter Trail Scenic Byway. This 150 mile "loop" features an area rich in tradition and beauty from more than 1,000 lakes and wildlife-filled wetlands to 19th century flour mills and spectacular roadside scenery. A scenic byway is designated for its cultural, historical or natural significance. One of Minnesota¹s 20 byways the Otter Trail Scenic Byway includes 23 sites, several with interpretive signs and many with trails, picnic facilities and opportunities to view wildlife.
Take a Tour on the Otter Trail Scenic Byway.
By tour bus or car you can travel 150 miles of county and state roadways and see some of Minnesota's finest sights. Start anywhere on this designated state byway. Travel through Fergus Falls, Battle Lake, Perham and Pelican Rapids. Start in Fergus Falls and follow the "Otter Trail" highway signs.
Here are some highlights of a typical tour...
Visit the Otter Tail County Historical Society Museum. It is laid out in an interpretive style with a 1916 Main Street, wildlife exhibit, agricultural exhibits, period rooms, etc. Drive south to the edge of Fergus Falls. Visit the Prairie Wetlands Learning Center and walk the trails.
Next, drive the countryside through Dalton, past many lakes, over rolling hills. Head for Inspiration Peak, second highest point in Minnesota. What a great view! Drive to Vining to take a picture of the "shoe", and then take a photo of the "Indian Chief" in Battle Lake. Off the route, about 1-1/2 miles, visit one of Minnesota's newest State Parks - Glendalough.
Continue up the road past Otter Tail and Rush Lakes. Perham offers many specialty shops; visit the doll museum located at the Chamber of Commerce building on main street. Head west and stop at Maplewood State Park. In the fall, the trees are spectacular! Stop in Pelican Rapids to see the pelican at the falls.
Wind your way southeast back around some of the 1,048 lakes to Phelps Mill. Stop in to view the milling equipment. Have a picnic in the park and get an ice cream cone across the street. Finish your drive back into Fergus Falls. Dine in one of the many fine restaurants; shop in our newly expanded retail market. The trail being a circular route, you can start and stop anywhere.
For a map, call 800-726-8959 or stop at the Chamber of Commerce, Fergus Falls.