Glacial Ridge Trail

Glaciers of the Ice Age moved through this region long ago and left in their wake a rolling landscape of lakes, streams, woodlands and prairies. In addition to beautiful, unspoiled trail segments, there are four picture-worthy state parks, four Nature Conservancy areas, and numerous golf courses and family resorts. There is no formal Point A to Point B for this byway, so travelers can enjoy the different segments in a variety of ways to make the most of the natural scenery, historic sites, friendly towns and bike trails.

Day 1

Sites and Specialties: In the Alexandria area, visit an amusement park or petting zoo, spend the day shopping, or learn the tales of Viking explorers at the Runestone Museum. Be sure to get a picture with Big Ole, the 28-foot Viking statue adjacent to the Central Lakes Trail. Enjoy a walk around the grounds at Carlos Creek Winery, or see classic boats on display at the Minnesota Lakes Maritime Museum. Heading south, take the Hwy. 28 spur to Sauk Center, perhaps best known as the hometown of Nobel Prize novelist Sinclair Lewis. Visit the Sinclair Lewis Interpretive Center, tour his home and see the Palmer House Hotel where he worked. Heading back west, Lake Minnewaska is popular for fishing and boating, and is bookended by towns of Glenwood and Starbuck. Tiny Starbuck celebrates Lefse Day the second Saturday in May, paying homage in good humor to a Scandinavian food favorite. Charming Terrace Mill near Glenwood celebrates the Fiddlers’ Festival on the last Sunday in September.

Day 2

Make a full day of exploring the beautiful parks along the route. Enjoy Glacial Lakes State Park on foot. Rolling hills, original prairie land and hardwood forests make up the peaceful terrain, and you can admire the views from a deck overlooking the 56-acre Mountain Lake. Cast your line for walleye, northern and sunfish while visiting Monson Lake State Park—also great for spotting waterfowl and songbirds. In Sibley State Park, follow an adventurous canoe route, or hike to Mount Tom, the highest point in in the park.

Day 3

A Little of Everything: For biking enthusiasts, the byway meets up with two paved bike trails: The Glacial Lakes and Central Lakes trails. Bike or in-line skate along the 12-mile Glacial Lakes State Trail from New London to Willmar. Stop at beautiful Green Lake in Spicer, then head to Willmar to shop for antiques or specialty items before visiting the Kandiyohi County Historical Museum. You can also visit the J&L Bison Ranch, home to 300 bison.

More info:
800-845-8747 www.glacialridgebyway.org