22 Winter 2021-
CHRISTMAS in the Fort
ELF The Musical Your
Free guide to the Alexandria Lakes Area
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The best of both worlds. “Many people feel the need to move to the big city to pursue their careers, leaving their hometown and the lake country lifestyle,” says Eddie Reif, Director of Community Relations & Development at Alomere Health. “Now, more and more professionals are recognizing we offer world-class careers, right here in Alexandria.” Alomere Health has once again been recognized as a Top 100 Rural & Community Hospital for 2021. This is the fourth year in a row for Alomere, making them one of only 3 hospitals in Minnesota to achieve this status!
Combined with recently being recognized by the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services as a 5-Star hospital and Healthgrades’ patient safety award, Alomere‘s programs and organizational recognition is evidence to the teamwork and overall commitment to supporting a culture of accountability and excellence that has been embraced by the staff and physicians.
leave feeling blown away by everything this community has to offer,” says Eddie. “Many end up moving here to stay. They are thrilled that, here, they can build a career they’re proud of, with the lifestyle they want, in a place they love.” Are you interested in joining our expanding team? Go to AlomereHealth.com and click on the “Careers” button for a list of all of the open positions.
So much of what makes Alomere great is the people who are part of this amazing community. But don’t take our word for it. Alexandria was named “Best MN Town” by Minnesota Monthly Magazine. “Professionals come from all over to see our nationally acclaimed hospital—and they
It’s better here.
VACATIONER magazine
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inter in the Alexandria lakes area is an exceptionally beautiful time of year. There are so many things to appreciate! Taking a walk on a frozen lake while flakes are lightly falling is like being a part of your own perfect snow globe – quiet, soft and relaxing. Having grown up in Minnesota and North Dakota, winter has always been a part of my life, and I cherish the memories of my youth – skating, sledding, snow forts, snowball fights – all wonderful excuses to be outside in the crisp, fresh air. I love, love, love winter in Minnesota! Even now, I’d take a walk in the sub-zero temperatures over the heat of a summer day. Add in some snow and my trusty snowshoes, and I’m all ready to go. There are so many winter activities available here in the Alexandria lakes area. Just start with snowLori Mork shoeing, snowmobiling or ice fishing, follow it up EDITOR with a little cross country or downhill skiing, round it out with some sledding and finish with a toasty fire and a cup of hot chocolate. You can even head out to compete in a local 5K race. If you’re not an outdoor person, there’s still so much to do: bowling, browsing through antique shops, movies, shopping historic downtown Alexandria or the Viking Plaza, wonderful restaurants, live theater, winery tour – the list just keeps on growing. How about a visit to the area museums, or exploring the history of the controversial Kensington Runestone? If you are a patron of the arts, you’ll be thrilled by the performances available, including the Central Lakes Symphony Orchestra, Central Lakes Concert Association, Lakes Area Theatre and the Andria Theatre productions. So check us out. I know you’ll find your perfect fit here in the Alexandria lakes area.
Echo Press • (320) 763-3133 • www.echopress.com A publication of the Echo Press Publisher: Diann Drew
Winter 2021-2022
Inside this issue
Andria Theatre page 8
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Shop downtown......................................................................................5 Central Lakes Symphony Orchestra............................................6 Area churches..................................................................................... ??? Lakes Area Theatre...............................................................................9 Central Lakes Concert Association............................................ 10 Sift through antiques.......................................................................... 10 Area events calendar......................................................................... 20 Ongoing events.................................................................................... 20 Taste of the Lakes Area................................................................. ???
Osakis Holiday Light Parade page 13
ACTIVITIES
Christmas in the Fort........................................................................... 11 Alexandria area outdoors................................................................. 12 Fun on ice? Try ice fishing............................................................... 14 Douglas County Trails Association............................................. 14 DATA trails............................................................................................... 15 DATA trails map.................................................................................... 16 Alexandria Blizzard hockey............................................................. 18 Thanksgiving turkey dash................................................................ 18
Runestone Museum
page 22
LAKES, PARKS, MUSEUMS
4 Winter 2021-2022 • Vacationer
Big Ole........................................................................................................22 Lake Carlos State Park..................................................................... 24 Douglas County Historical Society............................................. 24 Area parks............................................................................................... 26 Area lakes................................................................................................ 28
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CENTRAL symphony LAKES orchestra
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community organization based in Alexandria and dedicated to enriching the lives of audience members through its beautiful orchestra music, the Central Lakes Symphony Orchestra is an organization more than 50 members strong from the communities of Alexandria, Brandon, Carlos, Fergus Falls, Garfield, Glenwood, Miltona, Nelson, Osakis, Villard and Vining. The orchestra, led by Alexandria Area High School Director of Orchestras Brad Lambrecht, gives musicians a venue to participate in serious music with a symphony orchestra and helps to give back to the community through donations and student scholarships. Rehearsals are held in the Alexandria Area High School Orchestra Room on Tuesday evenings. Membership is open to musicians age 16 and older. For more information or to find the most up-to-date concert schedule, visit www. centrallakessymphony.org. The CLSO mailing address is 1210 Broadway Street, Suite 240, PMB 105, Alexandria, MN 56308.
2021-22 ORCHESTRA SCHEDULE Through the Eyes of the Soul Saturday, December 4 at 7 p.m. Performing Arts Center, AAHS Sergei Prokofiev – Sinfonia Concertante Featuring Betsy Husby, Violoncello Ottorino Respighi – Vetrate di chiesa (Church Windows) Sound of the Cinema Saturday, February 12 at 7 p.m. Performing Arts Center, AAHS Suite from “Jaws” Theme from “Jurassic Park” Bring Him Home (Les Miserables) Rawhide Back to the Future Suite Lord of the Rings Classical Masterworks Sunday, March 27 at 2 p.m. Performing Arts Center, AAHS Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart – Symphony No. 35 “Haffner” Ludwig von Beethoven – Triple Concerto Featuring Lyra Trio 6 Winter 2021-2022 • Vacationer
Immortal Words Sunday, May 22 at 2 p.m. Performing Arts Center, AAHS Tim Tharalson – Safe Giuseppe Verdi – Macbeth Prelude and Che Faceste Featuring CLSO Women’s Chorale Wes Flinn – Concerto for Tuba Featuring Mike Odello, Tuba Leonard Bernstein – Chichester Psalms Featuring CLSO Chorale Season tickets for all concerts are $60. Single tickets may be purchased for each concert at the door at $15 for adults and $5 for students ages 6-18. The concert is free for those 5 and younger. You may pre-purchase tickets at these locations: Disrict 206 Community Education Office (320) 762-3310 510 McKay Avenue North, Alexandria
Carlson Music Center (320) 763-4011 901 Broadway Street, Alexandria Cherry Street Books (320) 763-9400 503 Broadway Street, Alexandria Trumm Drug (320) 763-3111 600 Fillmore Street, Alexandria
Come Worship With Us! LAKES AREA CHURCHES WELCOME YOU
Alexandria Alexandria Covenant
4005 Dakota St., Alexandria 320-763-5659 / www.alexandriacovenant.org Pastor: Trinity Opp Senior Pastor Worship Service: Sunday 8 am Traditional 9:30 & 11 am Contempory
Alexandria United Methodist
2210 Sixth Ave. E., Alexandria 320-763-4624 / www.alexumc.org Pastor: Gary Taylor Worship Service: Sunday 9 am School/ Adult Discipleship: Sunday School 10 AM and Adult Discipleship at 10 AM (Sept through June)
Calvary Lutheran Church
605 Douglas Street, Alexandria 320-763-5178 / www.calvaryalex.org Pastors: Hans Dahl & Angie Larson Worship Services: Sundays at 8:30am & 10:30am Wednesdays at 5:30pm & 6:30pm Youth Programming: Sunday mornings and Wednesday Evenings Watch on demand on Facebook Live or Youtube KXRA radio at 9:30am on Sundays Public Access TV channel 181 at 9:30am on Sundays
First Congregational United Church of Christ
221 Seventh Ave. W., Alexandria 320-763-3341 www.firstcongregationaluccalex.com Reverend: Dr. Jill Sanders Worship Service: Sunday 10 am Service on Youtube: First Congregational UCC Alexandria, MN Sunday Worship Radio Rebroadcast: KXRA First Sunday of the month 11 am Communion second Sunday of the month
First Lutheran Church(ELCA)
1655 18th Ave. E., Alexandria 320-762-2196 www.firstlutheranalexandria.com Pastors: Greg Billberg, Kari Van Wakeren & Judy Holmen Worship Services: Sundays at 8:30am & 10am Wednesdays at 6:15pm Saturdays at 5:00pm (1st and 3rd Saturday’s of each month) Youth Programming: Sunday Mornings and Wednesday Evenings Facebook Live on Sunday and Wednesdays KXRA radio at 10am Sundays Public Access TV Channel 181 at 10:45 daily
Good Shepard Lutheran(LCMS) 2702 Hwy. 29 N., Alexandria 320-762-5152 / goodshepardalex.com Pastors: James Walberg Worship Service: Sunday 9am Bible Study & Sunday School: 10:15am Holy Communion first & second Sunday of the month
Lake Community Church
490 Voyager Dr., Alexandria 320-762-5424 / www.lakecommunity.org Pastor: Jon Ewton Worship Services: Sunday 9am & 10:30am Kids Ministry: 9am & 10:30am
New Testament Church
2505 Hwy. 29 N., Alexandria 320-762-2444 / www.ntcalexandria.org Pastors: Peter Reishus & Mike Loween Worship Services: Sunday 10am
St. Mary’s Catholic
420 Irving Street, Alexandria 320-763-5781 www.stmaryalexandria.org Pastor: Father Steven M. Binsfeld Saturday Mass: 5pm Sunday Mass: 8am & 10am Weekday Mass: Contact church for times Sacrament of Penance: 4pm Saturday
Zion Lutheran Church(LCMS)
300 Lake St., Alexandria 320-763-4842 / www.zionalex.org Pastor: Paul Dare, Donald Wilke & Matt Lorenz Worship Service: Sunday 8am & 10:30am Praise Worship: 2nd Sunday of the month 8 am Third Sunday of the month 10:30am Holy Communion: 1st & 3rd Sunday of the month 8am, 2nd & 4th Sunday of the month 10:30am
Other Areas
THESE TIMES APPLY DECEMBER - FEBRUARY WWW.CATHOLICACHURCHES-BMUP.ORG
Sacred Heart Catholic, Urbank
Saturday Mass: 4:00 pm
Seven Dolors Catholic, Millerville Sunday Mass: 8:30 am
St. Ann’s Catholic, Brandon
Saturday Mass: 7:30 pm
St. Williams, Parkers Prairie Sunday Mass: 10:30 am
PAID ADVERTISMENT
Winter 2021-2022 • Vacationer 7
ANDRIAtheatre
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ommunity theater presented by the Andria Theatre – west central Minnesota’s foremost live theater and performing arts center – produces five main stage shows each season to entertain audiences in the lakes area. Andria holds a growing reputation for hosting live comedy improvisational theater and also its Student Theatre Project. Both brand new and seasoned actors have taken the stage before the more than 10,000 audience members that have visited the theater annually. Those shows include a wide variety of entertainment, from classic
to farce and from drama to musical comedy. Both onstage and off, audiences will notice many familiar faces as the Andria Theatre takes advantage of the talents of local artists and community members – a true community theater. GET YOUR TICKETS Tickets are available at the box office, online, over the phone or in person. Box office hours are Monday-Friday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Box Office will open one hour prior to showtime. For more details or assistance, call (320) 762-8300. To find out more about the theater and performances, visit www.andriatheatre.org.
2021-2022 SCHEDULE
ELF THE MUSICAL Dec. 9-11 and 16-18, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 12 and 19, 2 P.M.
SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION Jan. 20-22 and 27-29, 7:03 p.m. Jan. 23 and 30, 2 p.m.
DISNEY’S FROZEN JR. March 3-5 and 10-12, 7:30 p.m. March 6 and 13, 2 p.m.
DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS April 21-23 and 28-30, 7:30 p.m. April 24 and May 1, 2 p.m.
This is the story of Buddy, a young orphan who accidentally crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and finds himself at the North Pole where he is raised to believe he is an elf rather than a human. It’s when he grows to his normal human size and finds he has no toy-making abilities that Santa allows Buddy to head to New York City to discover his true identity and find his real father. There, Buddy finds that his father is on the naughty list and his stepbrother doesn’t believe in Santa. Buddy makes it his goal to have his new family accept him and to help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas.
Convicted of murdering his wife and her lover, Andy Dufresne is sentenced to life in Shawshank prison. There, he realizes he must find ways to keep himself alive. Andy uses his wits and forges friendships to keep hope alive. There are adult themes and strong language in this production, which is based on the novella by Stephen King.
When their kingdom becomes trapped in perpetual winter, fearless Anna joins forces with mountaineer Kristoff and his reindeer sidekick to find Anna’s sister, Snow Queen Elsa, and break her icy spell. Although their epic journey leads them to encounters with mystical trolls, a comedic snowman, harsh conditions, and magic at every turn, Anna and Kristoff bravely push onward in a race to save their kingdom from winter’s cold grip.
Lawrence Jameson makes his lavish living by talking rich ladies out of their money. Freddy Benson more humbly swindles women by waking their compassion with fabricated stories about his grandmother’s failing health. After meeting on a train, they attempt to work together, only to find that this small French town isn’t big enough for the two of them. They agree to a challenge: the first one to extract $50,000 from a young female target, heiress Christine Colgate, wins, and the other must leave town. A hilarious battle of cons ensues that will keep audiences laughing, humming, and guessing to the end!
8 Winter 2021-2022 • Vacationer
LAKES AREA theatre
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pening in October 2010, Lakes Area Theatre has entertained audiences, both live and on the radio, for more than five years, bringing to life mysteries, comedies, detective stories, suspense, drama and westerns. Lakes Area Theatre performs its shows before a live audience, recording the shows and playing them back on KXRA 1490 AM and from a network of radio stations. Performed live every second Friday of the month at 7 p.m., the Lakes Area Theatre troupe is a group of dedicated regional writers, directors, voice actors, musicians, sound effects technicians and recording engineers, all combining their talents to bring you family-friendly and affordable entertainment. You can find the most up-to-date information on performances by
visiting the Lakes Area Theatre’s website at www.lakesareatheatre. com or by calling (320) 815-7664. Lakes Area Theatre is located at 4133 Iowa Street in Alexandria. WHERE YOU CAN LISTEN
KASM 1150 AM – Albany, Sunday, 7:30 p.m. KXRA 1490 AM – Alexandria, Saturday, 12:30 p.m. KRWC 1360 AM – Buffalo, Sunday, 11:30 a.m. KWQQ 1610am – Farmington, Iowa, Thursday, 4:30 p.m. KBRF 1250 AM – Fergus Falls, Sunday, 6:30 a.m. WNMT 650 AM – Hibbing, Sunday, 6:30 a.m. KLFD 1410 AM – Litchfield, Sunday, 4 p.m. KLQP Q92 FM – Madison, Sunday, 1:30 p.m.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
KMHL 1400 AM – Marshall, Saturday, 11:05 a.m. KMRS 1230 AM – Morris, Sunday, 6 p.m. KYMN – Northfield, Sunday, 5:30 a.m. KRUE 1170 AM – Owatonna, Sunday, 10 a.m. KWLM 1340 AM – Willmar, Sunday, 8 p.m.
visit www.lakesareatheatre.com, call (320) 815-7664 or email lakesareatheatre@gmail.com
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Winter 2021-2022 • Vacationer 9
CENTRAL LAKES concert association
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dding to the diversity of entertainment in the Alexandria lakes area, the Central Lakes Concert Association brings beautiful musical performances right to the community. On Thursday, March 10 at 7:30 p.m., Barron Ryan will bring his unique style of music to the stage in Classic Meets Cool. Named one of Ten Innovators to Watch in 2021 by Smithsonian Magazine, Ryan was commissioned by Chamber Music Tulsa to produce a work to commemorate the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. His piece for piano trio – My Soul Is Full of Troubles – brought him to the attention of the Smithsonian Magazine. His love for classics as well as modern music brings an eclectic style to his works. Following Ryan will be Veritas, a five-man classical crossover vocal ensemble of three tenors, one baritone and one bass, that earned their fame on the gospel circuit. They
have since returned to their familiar backgrounds that include opera, pop, rock and Broadway. Veritas will be in concert Thursday, March 31. Two young talents will serenade the audience on Sunday, May 8 as Tony-nominated Josh Young and Broadway star Emily Padgett perform. The two will perform Broadway favorites ranging from “Oh What A Beautiful Morning” to “Don’t Cry For Me Argentina.” The Sons of the Pioneers will bring their celebration of the West and cowboy life to the stage on Thursday, Mary 12 at 7:30 p.m. This ensemble, originally led by Roy Rogers, has performed since 1934 and are now under the leadership of Roy Dusty Rogers, Roy’s son. Unless noted, all performances are held at the Performing Arts Center of the Alexandria Area High School. For more information, call (320) 491-6308 or visit www.concertassociation.net.
Barron Ryan Thursday, March 10, 7:30 p.m.
Veritas Thursday, March 31, 7:30 p.m.
Josh Young/Emily Padgett Sunday, May 8, 7:30 p.m.
Sons of the Pioneers Thursday, May 12, 7:30 p.m.
SIFT THROUGH ANTIQUES discover unexpeceted treasure
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ines of businesses situated along Broadway Street in the heart of Alexandria encourage visitors to stroll through their doors and explore what they have to offer. After securing a parking spot, shoppers are sure to stay warm and cozy while bouncing in and out of different stores. In addition to the heated spaces to wander around in, another highlight of the bustling downtown area is the antique stores. Categorizing a store as “antique” will immediately draw the attention of some and repel the interest of others. However, there may be something waiting around the corner or on a shelf for just about anyone. Antique stores contain more than rotary phones, model cars and worn
furniture. Although, if that’s what the buyer is seeking, he or she will surely come across those items, too. These shops also hold unique clothes, suitcases, home decor and so much more. Sure, any of those would be plainly sorted at a department store, but they would most likely be double the price. Finding a good deal just increases the benefit of shopping secondhand. Thrifting is a different kind of adventure because things can be rediscovered and reused for a second life they never would’ve had if the original owner had thrown them away. Whether you’ve never stepped foot in an antique store or thrifting is your middle name, it’s worth a shot to go antiquing on Broadway.
10 Winter 2021-2022 • Vacationer
CHRISTMAS in the Fort Enjoy the holiday experience at the Runestone Museum then stay for Light Up Broadway
K
ick off your holidays the right way and enjoy Alexandria’s celebration of the season during its Christmas at the Fort and Lighting Ceremony Friday, November 26, beginning at 3 p.m. Carolers, Santa and Mrs. Claus, hot cider and snacks will keep the revelers warm and entertained as they check out all the activities available for this festive event. At dusk, Santa and Mrs. Claus will flip the switch to light up Christmas lights throughout the entire historic downtown district between Third Street and Eighth Street, kicking off the holiday season. All Christmas in the Fort events take place in the replicated Fort Alexandria on the grounds of the Runestone Museum. This annual event begins at 3 p.m. with the lighting ceremony taking place at approximately 5 p.m.
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Winter 2021-2022 • Vacationer 11
ALEXANDRIA AREA outdoors
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long with winter comes a whole new season of outdoor fun. The Alexandria lakes area offers a variety of fun outdoor activities for people of all ages. Here are just some of the outdoor activities you can enjoy in Douglas County this winter:
ICE SKATING • Noonan Park in Alexandria is the site of the city’s outdoor public skating rink. The rink is regularly maintained, has a warming house and is lit for night skating. The park is generally open for skating around December 20, or whenever there is 8 inches of ice. Hours for the rink and warming house are Monday through Friday, 3 to 9:30 p.m. and weekends and vacation days, 1 to 9:30 p.m. The rink is closed daily from 5 to 6 p.m. There is no charge to skate. Located on the east side of Alexandria off of Nokomis Street and between Ninth and 10th Avenues. • Indoor skating is offered at the Runestone Community Center in Alexandria. Hours for open skating are Monday through Friday, 9 to 11 a.m. Call for Saturday and Sunday open skating hours. Cost is $2 per session. Children age 6 and younger can skate free. Season passes are also available. For more information call (320) 7634466. Located at 1002 Third Avenue West in Alexandria. • Arrowwood Resort and Conference Center has skating on Lake Darling, in front of the townhomes. There are skates available for rent. DOWNHILL SKIING, TUBING, SNOWBOARDING, SNOWSHOEING Andes Tower Hills, located about 15 miles west of Alexandria, has 15 downhill ski runs ranging from beginner to expert, as well as facilities for tubing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Ski and snowboard lessons, a racing program, an afterschool ski program, lodging, equipment rentals and a pro shop are also available. The chalet features a largescreen TV, a gas fireplace, and the Whispering Pines Grill, which serves burgers, chili, soups and gourmet pizza.
Andes Tower Hills has also added some new rental equipment and a variable-speed motor for a smoother ride on the Hollywood High chair lift. There are 15 downhill runs for skiers at Andes: four easy hills that include the Bunny Hill, five intermediate and five difficult runs, as well as one expert run. Cross-country skiing has 800 acres of scenic trails packed and groomed on a regular basis. Lighted trails and a 2.3K snowshoe only trail are also available. Tubing is available and is recommended for those 4 years of age or older and 42 inches tall. For more information, call (320) 9652455 or visit the Andes website at www.andestowerhills.com. Take State Highway 27 west of Alexandria about nine miles, turn right onto County Road 7 and go about two miles, turn left on County Road 107 and go about two miles to the entrance. SNOWMOBILING There are 368 miles of snowmobile trails in Douglas County, which connect many of the communities in the area and connect to trails in surrounding counties as well. For more information about area snowmobile trails, visit www.douglasareatrails. com.
CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING Local cross-country ski trails are located as follows: • Lake Carlos State Park* has six miles of groomed trails and a warming house. It is open daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Take State Highway 29 north of Alexandria 10 miles, turn left onto County Road 38 and go two miles to the park entrance. • Kensington Rune Stone Park* near Kensington has 10.5 miles of groomed and slotted trails and a warming house. The park is open from 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., seven days a week. Take State Highway 27 west of Alexandria about 13 miles, turn left onto County Road 103 and go about one mile to the park entrance. • Spruce Hill Park* near Miltona has four miles of groomed and slotted trails. The park is open every day from 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Take State Highway 29 north of Alexandria about nine miles, turn right onto County Road 5, travel about 5 miles east on County Road 5 and turn left on County Road 105, then go about one-half mile to the park entrance. • Andes Tower Hills, about 15 miles west of Alexandria, has about nine miles (15K) of trails, some of which are lit at night. Call (320) 965-2455 or visit the Andes Tower Hills website at www.andestowerhills.com for more information. Take State Highway 27 west of Alexandria about nine miles, turn right onto County Road 7 and go about two miles, turn left on County Road 107 and go about two miles to the entrance. • Arrowwood Resort near Alexandria has several miles of private groomed cross-country ski and snowshoeing trails. Call (320) 762-1124 for information. Take County Road 82 west of Alexandria, turn right at County Road 22 (at stoplight), go about two miles and turn right onto County Road 104. • Lake Brophy Park at 1900 Brophy Park Road NW in Alexandria has groomed cross-country ski trails. Go west of Alexandria on County Highway 82 approximately three-anda-half miles to the park entrance. • State cross-country ski permits are required for anyone age 16 and older who uses any public ski trail, including those at Lake Carlos State Park, Kensington Runestone Park and Spruce Hill Park. Permits are $6 per
day. Season passes are $20; a threeyear pass is $55. Ski passes are valid for use in all Minnesota county and state parks and can be purchased by self-registration at state parks, at the Minnesota License Bureau at the Douglas County Services Center, at any business that sells hunting and fishing licenses, by phone at (888) 665-4236 or at the Minnesota DNR online license website at www. wildlifelicense.com/mn. *Note: State park visitors also must have a vehicle permit. SLEDDING & TOBOGGANING Kensington Runestone Park near Kensington has a toboggan hill and warming house. The park is open every day from 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Take Highway 27 west of Alexandria about 13 miles, turn left onto County Road 103 and go about one mile to the entrance. Arrowwood Resort and Conference Center’s Snow Center has a sledding hill for all ages. Small children must be accompanied by an adult and all must sign in at the Snow Center, which opens daily at 9 a.m. • Lake Brophy Park at 1900 Brophy Park Road NW in Alexandria has a groomed sledding hill. Go west of Alexandria on County Highway 82 approximately three-anda-half miles to the park entrance.
OSAKIS HOLIDAY light parade
W
ith its first-ever Holiday Light Parade a huge success last year, Osakis will once again hold the family-friendly event on Friday, December 3 at 6 p.m. The parade, the brain child of the Osakis Area Chamber of Commerce, was created to give area residents a way to celebrate the holidays despite the pandemic. Everyone is encouraged to light up cars, golf carts, tractors, lawnmowers or whatever else might contribute to the fun. Last year’s event did not have a specific theme, but everyone who entered was encouraged to use lots of lights on their vehicles and floats.
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FUN ON tryICE? ice fishing
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ith about 300 lakes in the Douglas County area, fishing is quite a popular activity. And not just in the summertime. Winter has many anglers finding themselves out on the ice, whether in a portable fish house, a premium ice house complete with stove, refrigerator and bunks for sleeping or just simply in the elements sitting on a five-gallon bucket. According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, ice fishing has increasingly become a popular sport but there are inherent dangers with changing ice conditions and propane heater carbon monoxide concerns, to name a couple. If you have never ice fished before, it might be a good idea to talk to experts at a local bait shop, chat with a friend who knows a thing or two about the sport or check out the DNR’s website, dnr. state.mn.us/gofishing/learn-ice-fish. html.
One of the most important things to remember about ice fishing is to make sure the ice is safe. The ice needs to be at least 4 inches to safely be on it and ice fish. In order to drive on the ice with a small car or pickup truck, the ice should be 8-12 inches and between 12-15 inches for a medium-sized pickup truck. Other tips provided by the DNR include the following: Use the DNR’s LakeFinder, which has information on not only lakes in the Alexandria area, but more than 4,000 other lakes in Minnesota. Dress in layers if you’re planning on fishing in the elements and not in a fish house. Be sure to have a couple layers of clothing, maybe some snow pants or bibs, insulated socks and boots, hat, gloves and warm coat. Rent before you buy. There are places where anglers can rent an ice fishing house to try it out first
instead of making such a large investment. Know what the ice fishing requirements are. There are several ways to access them, including mobile apps, online or download a copy from the DNR website. Early and late in the day – think sunrise and sunset – are great times to ice fish as the fish are often on the move. Early and late season can also be productive as oxygen levels are highest and fish adjust to changing seasons. Ice fishing doesn’t require a large initial investment – unless you go ahead and decide to buy a fish house right away. For the most part, all you need is a short rod designed for ice fishing, lures, bait and a hand auger, which are fairly affordable. If you decide that ice fishing is your sport, then you might want to make some bigger purchases, such as a power auger, sonar unit and of course, a premium ice house.
For more information on ice fishing, check the DNR’s website.
DOUGLAS AREA trails association
M
innesota has more than 22,000 miles of snowmobile trails that criss-cross its forests, prairie, hills and
lakes. These trails, which are often maintained through a partnership between local clubs, trail users and the state, make Minnesota a popular snowmobiling destination. Here in Douglas County, it’s just as wonderful for snowmobilers. There is breathtaking scenery – from open flatlands to heavily wooded, hilly terrain – on 368 miles of Douglas Area Trails Association (DATA) snowmobile trails. These trails wind throughout the county, connecting every community in the area and providing connections to trails in surrounding counties as well.
14 Winter 2021-2022 • Vacationer
The DATA trails also include part of the Central Lakes Trail, the abandoned Burlington-Northern railway that has been transformed into a paved four-season recreational trail. The 55-mile Central Lakes Trail connects the communities of Evansville, Brandon, Garfield, Alexandria, Nelson and Osakis. The Central Lakes Trail also connects to the Lake Wobegon Trail, which extends from Osakis to St. Joseph near St. Cloud. Together, the two trail systems are about 120 miles long and extend from Fergus Falls to St. Joseph. DATA is a non-profit corporation sponsored by Douglas County to build and maintain recreational trails. Trails are groomed twice per week when needed.
DATA TRAILS
Years ago, there were few places in Douglas County to snowmobile safely. Lakes and ditches were about the only option available until DATA was formed in 1974. The association built the first trail that year (15 miles) with help from private landowners, business people and residents, and by 1975, it had a total of 80 miles. The system grew by leaps and bounds, expanding to 270 miles by 1978. The organization was started by a small group of snowmobile enthusiasts who wanted to promote safe snowmobiling in Douglas County. More than 500 landowners have given permission for trails to cross their property. Without their cooperation, there wouldn’t be a trail system. For more information, visit the DATA website at www.douglasareatrails.com. A free map and additional trail information are available at the Alexandria Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce at 206 Broadway. See the DATA trail map on Pages 16-17.
Alexandria’s
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Contact MarkLimit Thompson 1 per visit. 320-460-2127 mark@alexandriablizzard.com
alexandriablizzard.com alexandriablizzard.com
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509 Broadway, Alexandria • 320.763.6363
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Winter 2021-2022 • Vacationer 15
Senior Living AT IT’S BEST
You are invited to Use it, Support it, and Enjoy it!
Check out the new website for current available activities Welcomes You!
320-762-2087 • 414 Hawthorne St www.alexsrctr.org info@alexsrctr.org
Providing
• Visit, shop and relax in our Lobby! • Cards, games, Sunday Music & special programs • Enjoy your hobbies in our Lorsung Art Studio • Come play pool in our state-of-the-art Pool Room • Volunteer for Meals on Wheels or other planned events • Visit Cornercopia, the gift shop! Open from 9-3:30
Hours
Monday-Friday 9:00am - 3:30pm
care and companionship where ever you call home.
Home Health Care, Hospice and Senior Living Services Available | knutenelson.org 16 Winter 2021-2022 • Vacationer
Care and comfort at its finest
We offer:
Trust us to protect and care for your loved ones with dignity and respect. The services will be delivered by specially trained staff in a comfortable, residential setting
·24/7 Care ·Personal Laundry Care ·Planned activities and outings ·RN Case Manager (on call 24/7) Woodcrest Assisted Living will provide exemplary service and care.
Dedicated To You, The Heart Of Our Care.
1201 Ridgeview Terrace NE, Alexandria, Minnesota 56308 | Phone: 320-219-6633 | Fax: 320-219-6634 | www.woodcrestassistedliving.net | kayla@woodcrestassistedliving.net
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Winter 2021-2022 • Vacationer 17
ALEXANDRIA blizzard hockey
I
f you have a hankerin’ for hockey, then the NA3HL Alexandria Blizzard action is for you! Competing in the West Division along with the North Iowa Bulls, Granite City Lumberjacks, Willmar WarHawks and New Ulm Steel, the Blizzard offers USA Hockey-sanctioned Tier III Junior hockey entertainment throughout the winter. The North American 3 Hockey League (3HL) is one of six leagues serving as some of the top training grounds in the country available to student-athletes, providing them with more opportunities to advance to college and pro hockey. Players are able to compete in front of the entire junior, college and professional scouting community as they fine-tune their skills. Highly competitive, 3HL hockey, and the Alexandria Blizzard in particular, provides exceptional hockey entertainment for spectators beginning in September and continuing through March. The Blizzard play their home games at the Runestone Community Center, located at the Douglas County Fairgrounds at 802 3rd Ave. West, Alexandria, just off County Road 82. Tickets available online at tickets.alexandriablizzard.com. For more information, call (320) 460-2127.
THANKSGIVING turkey dash Cold weather doesn’t stop runners as Alexandria YMCA, Osakis plan 5K events
T
he weather outside might be frightful, but you can still head out for an invigorating run on Thursday, November
25. The Alexandria Area YMCA will hold it’s annual Turkey Day 5K at a.m. which begins and ends at the Alexandria Area YMCA. A perfect event for the whole family, strollers are allowed and children are welcome to ride their bikes in this 5K. It’s a great way to start a new tradition!
18 Winter 2021-2022 • Vacationer
Registration begins at 7:15 a.m. with the race starting at 8 a.m. Participants will receive a swag bag with a Turkey Day 5K winter hat, snacks, water, hand sanitizer, band-aids, chapstick, and more! At 9 a.m., O’Town Tavern in Osakis will hold its 8th annual Turkey Dash for Diabetes 5K. Action begins downtown at 8:30 a.m. with the 1/2-mile Kids Runs, followed by the 5K race at 9 a.m. All of the proceeds go to support local campers attending Camp Needlepoint based out of Hudson, WI.
Taste of the Lakes Area
FOOD & HOSPITALITY Renovated Old Burlington Train Depot overlooking Lake Agnes. • Large Menu •Salad Bar • Pizza - The Best in the Area •Dine In or On the Deck • Full Lounge, TV’s, Pool Tables & Games •Large Groups Welcome • Full Catering Available • Breakfast available Fri. & Sat. 8 - 10:30am See you at the Depot! depotalex.com
OPEN DAILY Serving lunch & dinner • PRIME RIB (served nightly) • BURGERS • STEAKS • SEAFOOD • PASTAS • ICE CREAM DRINKS • FULL BAR
Voted #1 Steakhouse in the Lakes Area! Check out our FB page for daily specials! Mon.-Sat. open at 11am. Sun. open @3pm
4960 Co. Rd. 42 NE, Alexandria 1 Block North of the Carlos / L’ Homme Dieu bridge Viking Plaza Mall • Alexandria • 320-762-2697
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· Handcrafted cocktails · Unique dishes and flavors served every day · Live entertainment
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LAKE LE HOMME DIEU 2800 N NOKOMIS NE, ALEXANDRIA, MN 56308 OPEN DAILY AT 11AM | 320.219.7755
ALEXANDRIA area events calendar
NOVEMBER 2021 Thursday-Saturday, November 4-6 Shoppers on the Hunt, downtown Alexandria 4-6 p.m., Alexandria Area Holiday Arts & Crafters Tour, facebook.com/crafterstour Friday, November 5 11 a.m. Christmas Open House, Country Blossom Farm
Saturday, November 6 10 a.m. Puzzle Palooza, Douglas County Library 7:30 p.m. Intersection Trio, Central Lakes Concert Association, AAHS Performing Arts Center Saturday-Sunday, November 6-7 Hunting Widows Weekend, Carlos Creek Winery
Thursday, December 9 7 p.m. Christmas with Lorie Line, Alexandria Area High School
Thursday, March 31 7:30 p.m. Veritas, Alexandria Area High School Performing Arts Center
Thursday-Saturday, December 9-11 7:30 p.m. Elf-The Musical, Andria Theatre
APRIL 2022 Thursday-Saturday, April 21-23 7:30 p.m. Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Andria Theatre
Sunday, December 12 2 p.m. Elf-The Musical, Andria Theatre Thursday-Saturday, December 16-18 7:30 p.m. Elf-The Musical, Andria Theatre Friday, December 17 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Annual Christmas Bake Sale, Runestone Museum Sunday, December 19 2 p.m. Elf-The Musical, Andria Theatre
Saturday, November 13 2:30 p.m. The “B” Event, celerating women’s sports JANUARY 2022 and free throw tournament, Alexandria Area High Thursday-Saturday, January 20-22 School 7:30 p.m. Shawshank Redemption, Andria Theatre Sunday, Nov. 21 1:30-4 p.m. Schjei Country concert, Alexandria Senior Center Thursday, November 25 8 a.m. YMCA Turkey Day 5K 9 a.m. Turkey Dash for Diabetes 5K, O’Town Tavern, Osakis Friday, November 26 3 p.m. Christmas in the Fort, Runestone Museum Sunday, Nov. 28 2 p.m. Holiday Swing with Katie’s Swing Band, Andria Theatre, $10/$5
Sunday, January 23 2 p.m. Shawshank Redemption, Andria Theatre Thursday-Saturday, January 27-29 7:30 p.m. Shawshank Redemption, Andria Theatre Sunday, January 30 2 p.m. Shawshank Redemption, Andria Theatre FEBRUARY 2022 Saturday, February 12 7 p.m. Sounds of the Cinema, Central Lakes Symphony Orchestra, AAHS Performing Arts Center MARCH 2022 Thursday-Saturday, March 3-5 7:30 p.m. Disney’s Frozen Jr., Andria Theatre
DECEMBER 2021 Wednesday, December 1 8 a.m. Gift wrap/bake sale, Viking Plaza Mall 7:30 p.m., Tonic Sol-Fa, Alexandria Area High School Sunday, March 5 2 p.m. Disney’s Frozen Jr., Andria Theatre Friday, December 3 Thursday, March 10 6 p.m. Osakis Light Parade 7:30 p.m. Barron Ryan, Central Lakes Concert AssoSaturday, December 4 ciation, AAHS Performing Arts Center European Christmas Market, downtown Alexandria 7 p.m. Through the Eyes of the Soul, Central Lakes Thursday-Saturday, March 10-12 7:30 p.m. Disney’s Frozen Jr., Andria Theatre Symphony Orchestra, AAHS Performing Arts Center Sunday, March 13 Tuesday, December 7 Annual Donation Day at the Museum (Free admission with two personal care items for Outreach Food Shelf Holiday Train) 20 Winter 2021-2022 • Vacationer
2 p.m. Disney’s Frozen Jr., Andria Theatre
Sunday, March 27 2 p.m. Classical Masterworks, Central Lakes Symphony Orchestra, AAHS Performing Arts Center
Sunday, April 24 2 p.m. Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Andria Theatre Thursday-Saturday, April 28-30 7:30 p.m. Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Andria Theatre Sunday, April 31 2 p.m. Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Andria Theatre MAY 2022 Sunday, May 8 7:30 p.m. Josh Young and Emily Padgett, Central Lakes Concert Association, AAHS Performing Arts Center Thursday, May 12 7:30 p.m. Sons of the Pioneers, Central Lakes Concert Association, AAHS Performing Arts Center Sunday, May 22 2 p.m. Immortal Words, Central Lakes Symphony Orchestra, AAHS Performing Arts Center
ONGOING EVENTS BLIZZARD HOCKEY: September-March Runestone Community Center, Alexandria www.alexandriablizzard.com PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOPS: First Thursday of each month, 7 p.m. Evansville Arts Center www.evansvilleartcenter.com OPEN MIC NIGHTS: Third Thursday of each month, March-December, 6:30 to 9 p.m. Evansville Arts Center www.evansvilleartcenter.com FIRST FRIDAY CONCERTS: First Friday of each month March-December, 7 to 9 p.m. Evansville Arts Center www.evansvilleartcenter.com LIVE MUSIC: Friday, Saturday, Sunday Check website for times Carlos Creek Winery, Alexandria (320) 846-5443, www.carloscreekwinery.com
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Winter 2021-2022 • Vacationer 21
RUNESTONE museum
T
he Runestone Museum has been inspiring curiosity about local history and heritage for more than 50 years. The world-famous and controversial Kensington Rune Stone was the Runestone Museum’s only artifact when it opened its doors in 1958. Since then, the museum has expanded to include exhibits celebrating native Minnesotans, emigrants and immigrants, Minnesota wildlife and events that shaped the area. Fort Alexandria, commissioned in 1862, has been recreated with rescued historical structures, such as a nearly exact replica of the stockade built in 1862, an 1889 church, a log cabin built in the late 1860s and an 1885 schoolhouse. The fort is located in the outdoor portion of the campus that is open April-October. Housing rare and exciting artifacts like a Middle Ages Nordic fire steel and a 1920s jingle dress, the Runestone Museum is sure to impress whether you’re interested in history, heritage or the natural sciences. Both the museum and gift shop are now open with limited capacity. Face mask use and additional safety procedures are in place.
Currently, the museum is open Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information call (320) 763-3160, or visit the museum’s website at www.runestonemuseum.org for the most up-to-date admission prices and hours. Check out the museum’s Facebook page at Runestone Museum Foundation.
KENSINGTON RUNESTONE It’s a controversy more than 100 years in the making: Did an immigrant Swedish farmer find a buried rock in 1898 that contained an ancient runic message carved by Viking explorers 100 years before Columbus landed in America? Or is the whole thing a hoax, perpetrated by the farmer or some other prankster? A large replica of the Kensington Runestone is located at a small, wayside rest. Visitors can read the inscription and take a photo by the replica. The replica is located in a small park at the east end of Sixth Avenue in Alexandria. Explore the controversy for yourself at the Runestone Museum, located at 206 Broadway in Alexandria.
RUNESTONE MUSEUM After you take your picture with Big Ole, cross the street for a visit to the Runestone Museum. There you will learn about Big Ole, Vikings and Nordic explorers, and test your skill at matching animal prints in the wildlife exhibit. Along with the Runestone, the museum holds exhibits on Native Americans, early immigrant history, the history of Alexandria, a memorial/gun exhibit, a Minnesota wildlife exhibit, and a handson children’s area.
BIGole
P
erhaps one of the most eye-catching landmarks in Alexandria is Big Ole – a 28-foot tall Viking statue that stands at the north end of Broadway. Born in 1965, the Viking has become a much-beloved resident in the lakes area. The idea for the statue began in January of 1964 when North Star World’s Fair Corporation in Osseo began working on an addition to the Minnesota display for the New York World’s Fair. The display was to feature the historical Kensington Runestone in an animated scene titled “Minnesota, Birthplace of America.” The new item to coincide with this display was the 28-foot, four-ton Viking statue.
22 Winter 2021-2022 • Vacationer
Big Ole was created by fiberglass sculptor Gordon Schumaker of Minneapolis in April of 1965 and was transported to New York just in time for the World’s Fair. When the fair ended, Big Ole was moved to Alexandria, where he stands today. Originally placed at the north end of Broadway Street in front of the Runestone Museum, Big Ole was moved from the intersection of 3rd and Broadway to a new location one-half block north in 1980 to make way for a new stoplight. He was moved once more in 2002 to his current location at the head of the Central Lakes Trail on the south shore of Lake Agnes. Throughout the years, Big Ole’s had several repairs made and new coats of paint applied. His beard has changed from gray to yellow to brown.
Our family welcomes yours!
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LAKE CARLOS state park
B
uilt by receding glaciers, Lake Carlos State Park offers a myriad of natural wonders, including a clear and deep lake just perfect for swimming, fishing and boating. Among its 1,231 acres, nearly onethird of Minnesota’s 80 mammals and more than 150 species of birds find a home either seasonally or all year long. It’s the perfect place to view loons, grebes, ducks and heron, making this a bird watcher’s paradise! You may even catch a glimpse of the beaver and deer that make their homes within the park. The park also features a yearround naturalist that leads several programs throughout the year. Winter or summer, Lake Carlos State Park is a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, skiing and interpretive programs are just waiting for you.
Paddleboat, canoes, and kayaks are available to rent during the regular season office hours May - October. In the winter, snowshoes are available for rent at the park office. A thermal flipover style portable fish house is available to rent on Lake Carlos only. Contact the park office for current rates and availability. The park entrance, 2601 County Road 38 Northeast in Carlos, is located 10 miles north of Alexandria on State Highway 29, then two miles west on Highway 38. The best time to contact the park is 9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily at (320) 852-7200. You can also email the park at lakecarlos.statepark@state.mn.us You can discover much more about Lake Carlos State Park by visiting www.dnr.state.mn.us/ state_parks/lake_carlos/
COMING TO THE PARK? ARRIVE PREPARED. Buildings and warming shelters may not be open. Dress appropriately for the weather, and bring extra supplies with you.
BATHROOMS/ SHOWERS/VAULT TOILETS Sanitation buildings in the Lower and Upper Campgrounds are closed for the season. Vault toilets are available throughout the park. NATURALIST PROGRAMS Check the events calendar for upcoming programs by visiting www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_ parks/lake_carlos/
SEASON RENTALS Snowshoe rentals are available when there is enough snow.
DRINKING WATER There is a frost-free water spigot at the Visitor Center in front of the solar panel. RANGER STATION/ NATURE STORE HOURS Daily from 9 a.m.-4 p.m., depending on staff availability during these hours. GET IN TOUCH Call (320) 852-7200 between 9 a.m.-4 p.m. for more info or email lakecarlos.statepark@ state.mn.us.
HISTORICAL society
I
nterested in local history? Visit the Douglas County Historical Society and take a guided tour of the Knute Nelson house, home of one of Alexandria’s most famous residents. Nelson, who served the people of Minnesota in public office for more than 50 years, was elected to the Minnesota Legislature, and served two terms in the U.S. Congress before becoming the state’s first foreign-born governor. He then served in the U.S. Senate for 28 years. Nelson claimed a homestead in Alexandria in 1871 and built a small house on the property in 1874. As his political career progressed, he made additions to the house, adding a formal living room and large bedroom in 1900 and a dining room and kitchen on the main floor and four more bedrooms on the second story in 1915. Nelson died in 1923. His will stated that following the death of his daughter, Ida, the house was to be given to the Norwegian Lutheran Church as a “home for the aged.” It served in that capacity for 38 years.
24 Winter 2021-2022 • Vacationer
DOUGLAS COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY
was organized in 1976 to discover, preserve and disseminate the history of the county and its people.
collection, materials for identification of significant buildings and sites in Douglas County, a vintage clothing and uniform collection, and county history books.
RESOURCES AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC include a research library with church, school, cemetery and family history files, and microfilm of census records and area newspapers dating back to 1875.
THE OFFICE is unable to give tours at this time, but will take research requests via email at historic@dchsmn.org or by phone at (320) 762-0382. If you need to do research in person, please call ahead.
STAFF AND VOLUNTEERS are available to assist with research.
FOR MORE INFORMATION call (320) 762-0382 or visit www.dchsmn. org. For immediate needs, email brittany. johnson@dchsmn.org.
EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES INCLUDE slide shows of each town in the county, oral history, interviews, a photo In 1978, the house was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. On October 1, 1987, the “Knute Nelson House” became the headquarters of the Douglas County Historical Society.
The Douglas County Historical Society is located at 1219 Nokomis St. in Alexandria. For more information, call (320) 762-0382 or visit www.dchsmn.org.
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AREAparks
CITY PARKS
Most cities in the area maintain city parks, many of which offer playground equipment and picnic areas.
Oak Knoll Park is on the northeast side of Alexandria near McKay Ave. Take Hwy. 29 North, turn right on McKay Ave. and left on Oak Knoll Dr.
Alexandria City Park is at the north end of Alexandria, one block west of County Rd. 42. It offers a playground, picnic area, tennis courts, swimming beach, bathhouse and fishing pier.
Osagi Park is on Lake St. in Osakis. It features picnic tables and shelter, restrooms, playground and lakeshore (no swimming area).
Big Ole Central Park is on the north end of Broadway in Alexandria, next to Lake Agnes. It features a gazebo, kiosk shelter, bike repair station and serves as a trail head for the Central Lakes Trail. Bluebird Park is on Agnes Blvd. near Kinkead Cemetery in Alexandria.
Pooch Playland is a dog park with a fenced-in area located at the south end of Victor St. in Alexandria. Runestone Park is about one mile east of Broadway in Alexandria on Sixth Ave. E. Skylark Park is north of Kinkead Cemetery on Amanda Lane in Alexandria.
Carter Park is on Benjamin Drive off of Co. Rd. 22 in Alexandria.
Summer Meadows Park is on the north side of Alexandria near Scenic Heights Road and Summer Lane.
Dean Melton Fillmore Park is at Fillmore St. and 15th Ave. West in Alexandria. It features a picnic shelter, ball fields, skate park and playground.
Veterans Memorial Park is at 802 Broadway in Alexandria.
Fred Foslien Park is in Victoria Heights, two blocks south of Co. Rd. 27 off Knut Street in Alexandria. Geneva Crest Park is on the west side of Lake Geneva in Alexandria. Take Co. Rd. 82 E., turn north on Birch Ave., go 3/4 mile, go east on Basswood two blocks and north on Geneva Dr. Goose Park is three blocks west of Broadway on Fifth Ave. W. in Alexandria. Lake Agnes Park is on the south shore of Lake Agnes along County Rd. 37 in Alexandria. Lake Connie Park is on Seventh Ave. E. between Roosevelt and Spruce streets in Alexandria. Lakeview Park is near County Rd. 82 East and Birch Ave. in Alexandria. Take Co. Rd. 82 E. to Birch Ave., turn west on Runestone Place and west on Lake Park Ave. Legion Park is at Broadway and Eighth Ave. W. in Alexandria. Manor Hills Park is in Alexandria. Take Hwy. 29 N. to Manor Dr. and go two blocks to the right on Springdale. Martin’s Hope Park is on Second Ave. across the street from Big Ole Central Park. Noonan Park is at Nokomis St. and 10th Ave. in Alexandria. 26 Winter 2021-2022 • Vacationer
Woodland Park is on the north side of Alexandria on Woodland Dr., just north of Hwy. 29.
COUNTY PARKS
Chippewa Park is three miles north of Brandon on Co. Rd. 108. It features picnic tables, shelters, charcoal grills, restrooms, showers, drinking water, a swimming beach (no lifeguard), playground, horseshoe pit and camping sites. Curt Felt Memorial Park is north of Alexandria off Co. Rd. 42. It has a volleyball court, playground, a picnic shelter, restrooms, horseshoe courts and a softball field. Lake Brophy Park, located on the north side of Lake Brophy, is the newest addition to the county’s park system. Take Co. Rd. 82 west of Alexandria to the Brophy Landing road. The park was built with a Legacy Grant from the State of Minnesota in 2018. Reach walking trails from a small parking lot located on the north end of the park off Centennial Drive. It also offers a public swimming beach, a mountain bike course, fishing pier and children’s playground. Lake Brophy Wayside Park is west of Alexandria at the intersection of Co. Rds. 82 and 8. It has picnic tables, charcoal grills, restroom, drinking water, playground and views of Lake Brophy.
Kensington Rune Stone Park is 15 miles west of Alexandria on State Hwy. 27. It’s where the famed Kensington Runestone was found. A new visitor center was constructed in 2017 which offers modern restrooms, an interpretive room, a gathering space and drinking water. The park also includes picnic tables, shelters, charcoal grills, electricity, a heated building with kitchen facilities, softball field, horseshoe pit, volleyball court, playground, hiking, mountain bike trails, cross-country ski trails and historic displays. Spruce Hill Park is near Miltona. From Alexandria, take Hwy. 29 to Co. Rd. 5 and go east five miles. It has picnic tables, shelters, charcoal grills, electricity, restrooms, drinking water, softball field, and interpretive, hiking and crosscountry ski trails.
STATE PARKS
Lake Carlos State Park is near Carlos. Take State Hwy. 29 north from Alexandria, turn west on Co. Rd. 38, turn left into park. Permit is required; purchase at park office ($7/day, $35/year). The park features trails for hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling, as well as picnic tables, shelters, a swimming beach, play area, campsites, camper cabins, group camp, group center, restrooms, showers, boat landing, amphitheater, visitor/interpretive center, naturalist programs, geocaching and an equestrian area. Rentals are available for canoes, paddle boats, kayaks, snowshoes and fish houses, and checkouts are available for fishing and birding kits and GPS units.
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ALEXANDRIA area lakes
AARON Size: 614 acres Depth: 16 feet Game fish: Northern, pan fish, largemouth bass, walleye Features: Shallow with sandy beaches Public access: South end off Lakes Rd.
CHRISTINA Size: 3,978 acres Depth: 14 feet Game fish: Northern, bullhead, pan fish, largemouth bass, walleye Features: Large, shallow Public access: Southwest end off Co. Rd. 82
AGNES Size: 137 acres Depth: 31 feet Game fish: Pan fish, northern, bass, some walleye Features: Fishing pier in City Park Public access: City-owned access on southwest end off Agnes Blvd.
COWDRY Size: 242 acres Depth: 52 feet Game fish: Walleye, northern, largemouth bass, pan fish Features: Small, clear Public access: Northeast corner off Co. Rd. 82 and E. Lake Cowdry Rd.
ANDREW Size: 918 acres Depth: 83 feet Game fish: Walleye, northern, pan fish, largemouth bass Features: Sandy beaches, spring-fed, popular recreational lake Public access: Southeast side off Co. Rd. 28 BLACKWELL Size: 307 acres Depth: 42 feet Game fish: Bullhead, pan fish, largemouth bass, northern, walleye Public access: East side off Country Ln. BROPHY Size: 293 acres Depth: 44 feet Game fish: Walleye, northern, largemouth bass, pan fish Features: Island, sandy beaches Public access: Northwest shore off Co. Rd. 82 and Brophy Park Rd. BURGEN Size: 174 acres Depth: 43 feet Game fish: Northern, pan fish, some bass and walleye Features: Small, steeply sloped shoreline Public access: North end off Co. Rd. 23 CARLOS Size: 2,598 acres Depth: 163 feet Game fish: Walleye, northern, pan fish, largemouth bass Features: Access to chain of lakes, clear, deep Public accesses: North shore in state park off Co. Rd. 38; northeast shore near state park; west shore off Co. Rd. 11; east shore off Co Rd. 42 and E. Lake Carlos Dr. CHIPPEWA Size: 1,175 acres Depth: 95 feet Game fish: Walleye, northern, pan fish, largemouth bass Features: Deep, headwaters of Chippewa River Public access: Northeast corner off Co. Rd. 12
28 Winter 2021-2022 • Vacationer
GRANTS Size: 177 acres Depth: 60 feet Game fish: Northern, bullhead, pan fish, walleye, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass Public access: Northwest corner off Co. Rd. 94 HENRY Size: 152 acres Depth: 32 feet Game fish: Northern, pan fish, some bass Features: Next to City Park Public access: Accessible by water from Lake Agnes
CROOKED Size: 281 acres Depth: 35 feet Game fish: Northern, bullhead, largemouth bass, pan fish Features: Quiet Public access: North end off Co. Rd. 27
IDA Size: 4,427 acres Depth: 106 feet Game fish: Walleye, bass, northern, pan fish Features: Large, clear; sandy beaches Public accesses: North side off Co. Rd. 34 and Big Horn Bay Rd.; east side off Co. Rd. 34 and Pilgrim Point Rd.; southeast side off Co. Rd. 34 and Sunset Strip
DARLING Size: 1,050 acres Depth: 62 feet Game fish: Northern, pan fish, largemouth bass, walleye Features: Water access to chain of lakes Public access: Access by water from Lake Carlos
INDIAN Size: 76 acres Depth: 38 feet Game fish: Northern, bullhead, pan fish, walleye Public access: North side off Co. Rd. 6 and Indian Lake Rd.
DEVILS Size: 234 acres Depth: 35 feet Game fish: Walleye, northern, largemouth bass, pan fish Features: Spring-fed, sandy beaches, connects to county park Public access: North side off Co. Rd. 7 and Devil’s Lake Rd.
IRENE Size: 639 acres Depth: 44 feet Game fish: Walleye, northern, largemouth bass, pan fish Public access: Northwest side off Hwy. 29 and Irene Rd.; southeast side off Co. Rd. 64
FREEBORN Size: 248 acres Depth: 18 feet Game fish: Northern, largemouth bass, pan fish, bullhead, walleye Public access: Northwest side off Co. Rd. 96 GENEVA Size: 640 acres Depth: 63 feet Game fish: Largemouth bass, northern, pan fish, walleye Features: Pier on north end, access to chain of lakes Public access: Northwest side off Hwy. 29 and Southeast side off Co. Rd. 82 GILBERT Size: 202 acres Depth: 17 feet Game fish: Bullhead, pan fish, northern, walleye Features: Quiet Public access: North end off Co. Rd. 7 and Moe Hall Rd.
LATOKA Size: 753 acres Depth: 108 feet Game fish: Walleye, northern, largemouth bass, pan fish Features: Clear, deep, good water quality, public swimming beach Public accesses: North side off Co. Rd. 82, West side of South Basin off Hwy. 27 and Vonderheid Dr. L’HOMME DIEU Size: 1,801 acres Depth: 85 feet Game fish: Walleye, largemouth bass, northern, pan fish Features: Access to chain of lakes, public swimming beach Public accesses: Northwest side off Co. Rd. 42; northeast side off Co. Rd. 120 LITTLE CHIPPEWA Size: 269 acres Depth: 24 feet Game fish: Northern, bullhead, walleye, pan fish, largemouth bass Features: Shallow, sandy, connects to county park Public access: South shore off Co. Rd. 108
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ALEXANDRIA area lakes LOBSTER Size: 1,329 acres Depth: 65 feet Game fish: Northern, pan fish, walleye, bass, muskellunge Features: Many bays and points, island Public access: West end off Co. Rd. 27 LONG Size: 218 acres Depth: 18 feet Public access: East end off Long Lake Rd. LOUISE Size: 214 acres Depth: 33 feet Game fish: Bullhead, pan fish, largemouth bass, northern, walleye Public access: West side off Co. Rd. 22 MAPLE Size: 831 acres Depth: 78 feet Game fish: Walleye, northern, largemouth bass, pan fish Features: Mostly shallow, spring-fed, excellent water quality Public access: North end off Co. Rd. 4; east side off Co. Rd. 87 MARY Size: 2,450 acres Depth: 40 feet Game fish: Walleye, northern, largemouth bass, pan fish Features: Large, gradual slopes, popular recreational lake Public access: Northwest corner off Hwy. 27; southwest corner off Co. Rd. 4 MILL Size: 450 acres Depth: 40 feet Game fish: Walleye, northern, pan fish, largemouth bass Features: Spring-fed, deep, clear Public access: Southeast corner off Hwy. 27 MILTONA Size: 5,724 acres Depth: 105 feet Game fish: Walleye, bass, northern, pan fish, muskellunge Features: Largest lake in county; deep, clear; sandy beaches Public accesses: North shore off Co. Rd. 14 and Sandy Beach Dr.; northeast side off Hwy. 29 and North Lake Miltona Dr.; west side off Spring Lake Rd. MINA Size: 411 acres Depth: 123 feet Game fish: Northern, largemouth bass, pan fish, bullhead, muskellunge, walleye Public access: North point off Co. Rd. 8
30 Winter 2021-2022 • Vacationer
MOON Size: 144 acres Depth: 38 feet Game fish: Northern, largemouth bass, pan fish, walleye, bullhead, perch Public access: North side off Co. Rd. 82
MOSES Size: 824 acres Depth: 32 feet Game fish: Walleye, largemouth bass, pan fish, northern Features: Clear, sandy Public access: West side off Co. Rd. 16 OSAKIS Size: 6,389 acres Depth: 86 feet Game fish: Walleye, northern, pan fish, bass Features: Large lake with many bars and fishing structures Public access: South end in Osakis; west side off Co. Rd. 10; north end off Co. Rd. 10 (other access in Todd County) OSCAR Size: 1,119 acres Depth: 25 feet Game fish: Walleye, pan fish, northern, muskellunge Features: Island Public access: North side off State Hwy. 27 POCKET Size: 263 acres Depth: 40 feet Game fish: Northern, pan fish, largemouth bass, bullhead, walleye Public access: South side off Hwy. 114 and Pocket Lake Rd. RACHEL Size: 442 acres Depth: 65 feet Game fish: Northern, bullhead, pan fish, largemouth bass, walleye Public access: East shore off Co. Rd. 93 RED ROCK Size: 903 acres Depth: 22 feet Game fish: Northern, walleye, largemouth bass, pan fish Features: Shallow Public access: East side off Shorewood Dr. ROUND Size: 81 acres Depth: 30 feet Game fish: Northern, largemouth bass, pan fish, bullhead Features: Quiet Public access: South end off Co. Rd. 27
SMITH Size: 666 acres Depth: 30 feet Game fish: Northern, walleye, pan fish, largemouth bass Features: Spring-fed, quiet Public access: Northeast corner off Hwy. 27 and Smith Lake Rd.
STOWE Size: 389 acres Depth: 14 feet Game fish: Northern, bullhead, pan fish, largemouth bass, walleye Public access: West end off Co. Rd. 82 and Stowe Lake Rd. TURTLE Size: 218 acres Depth: 21 feet Game fish: Northern, pan fish, largemouth bass, bullhead, walleye Public access: Southwest corner off Co. Rd. 88 UNION Size: 107 acres Depth: 45 feet Game fish: Northern, largemouth bass, pan fish, bullhead, walleye Public access: SE side off Co. Rd. 23 VERMONT Size: 338 acres Depth: 59 feet Game fish: Bullhead, pan fish, largemouth bass, northern, walleye Public access: Southeast side off Hwy. 29 and E. Lake Vermont Rd. VICTORIA Size: 417 acres Depth: 60 feet Game fish: Northern, walleye, largemouth bass, pan fish Features: Long, narrow lake with access to Lake Geneva Public access: South end off Hazel Hill Rd. WHISKEY Size: 160 acres Depth: 46 feet Game fish: Bullhead, pan fish, largemouth bass, northern, walleye Public access: North shore off Co. Rd. 58 WINONA Size: 213 acres Depth: 9 feet Game fish: Bullhead, perch, crappie Public access: City-owned, carry-in access on northwest end
www.willytsalex.com | 320-763-9983 |
NEW DAILY HAPPY HOUR 3-6 PM & 9-11PM SERVING BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER
CHECK OUR WEB SITE OR CALL FOR HOURS DUE TO COVID
In the heart of the beautiful Alexandria lakes area • Farm Fresh Menu • Home Inspired Items • Rustic Décor • Casual Comfortable Atmosphere
320.763.6577 Hwy 29 S and I-94 Alexandria
The Holiday Inn in Alexandria is a full service hotel with a casual resort like atmosphere. This comfortable setting makes us an ideal destination for relaxing getaways, business travel, or your next company meeting. • 148 guest rooms with new 40” flat screen TVs, fridge & microwave • Huge recreation area with large indoor • Fitness center pool, wading pool, whirlpool & sauna • Restaurant connected to Hotel
IS LOCATED ALONG CENTRAL LAKES DATA TRAIL.
Cabin D elivery Availab le MONDAY THRU
HAS GREAT SNACKS FOR THE FISHHOUSE
FRIDAY thego@ 8 AM-2PM. rea-alp.c om • BAKER Y • CHEES ES • DAIRY • ELDEN • DELI ’S SMOK • FLORA EHOUSE • FROZE L • HEALTH N FOOD & BEAUT Y • M E AT • NATUR AL AND • PRODU ORGANIC • SEAFO CE OD • SUSHI Email ord
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OPEN 6 AM - 10 PM, 7 DAYS A WEEK!
320-763-3446 • www.ELDENS.com Corner of 3rd & Nokomis, Alexandria Only store in town that is LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED.
