Live Well

Fergus Falls and Otter Tail County offer a wealth of recreational activities and special events that celebrate the good life in Minnesota. Situated in West Central Minnesota, just two and a half hours from Minneapolis and St. Paul, we are home to over 1,000 lakes and streams. That covers a whopping 10 percent of Minnesota’s 10,000 magnificent lakes. Living here means enjoying unlimited opportunities to fish, swim, sail, canoe, water ski, or just relax on a beach. 

Outdoor Recreation

Recreation in our area covers a vast range of activities beyond water sports. From scenic biking paths and birding opportunities on the dynamic Pine to Prairie Birding Trail www.mnbirdtrail.com, to golf, hunting and exploring Prairie Wetlands Learning Center, www.fws.gov/midwest/pwlc/, we offer fun for the entire family anytime of the year.

City Parks

Known for its beautifully designed and maintained flower gardens, Fergus Falls features over 500 acres of parks and gardens. In addition to picnicking and relaxing, local recreation includes softball and baseball facilities, tennis courts, walking paths, a swimming beach, skating rinks, playgrounds, and an extensive summer recreational activity schedule for every family member. For more information, go to www.fergusfalls.com/visitor/cityParks.htm or call 218.736.6951.

Winter

Winter brings its own unique set of activities for those who love the wide open range and snow covered landscape. Snowmobiling and skiing top the list, followed by ice fishing, skating and, of course, hockey.  

Snowmobiling

Minnesota offers over 20,000 miles of groomed snowmobile trails. Over 18,000 miles are maintained by local snowmobile club volunteers including the Minnesota United Snowmobilers Association, www.mnsnowmobiler.org.

Trail tips: A state trail sticker is required for all snowmobiles operating on state and other specified trails. Trail maps, snow conditions, regulations and registration fees can be obtained through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, www.dnr.state.mn.us.

Or, check out North Shore Minnesota Snowmobiling for maps, lodging and trip reports along the Minnesota North Shore.  www.snowmobiletrails.com

Downhill Skiing

Our area offers an abundance of snow skiing sites located throughout the state and in neighboring Wisconsin. Groomed trails provide loads of cold weather entertainment, and top notch resorts make our ski destinations a treat for all. For example, picturesque Lutsen Mountains, located on Minnesota’s North Shore features exceptional skiing as well as sleigh riding, dog sledding, snow shoeing, and spas. www.lutsen.com