By Russ Lowthian, HaveFunBiking
There is no shortage of fun in Minnesota. After reviewing the latest MN Bike/Hike/Paddle Guide, which includes many maps for outdoor fun. We decided to explore Alex as a one-tank, multi-modal, round-trip destination. With increased gas prices taking a bite out of every motorist’s wallet, we found that the Alexandria Lakes Area fits the criteria well. The perfect place to visit. Park the car at the selected lodge and use a bicycle to get around. On this trip, we found the Cedar Rose Inn charming and a great place to relax. This allowed us to easily reach the local bike routes, trails, historic downtown attractions, and several restaurants within easy walking distance.
With the bikes loaded and gear packed, Alexandria is approximately 130 miles (about a two-hour drive) northwest of Minneapolis on I-94.
See a whole lot more biking, hiking, or paddling in Alexandria
Using the Alexandria Bike Map, on pages 20-21 of the MN Guide, you will find options for routes to ride comfortably around town and scenic loops that take you out and around many lakes in Douglas County. Looking at the map and planning your next visit, check out the Explore Alexandria page for many other fun outdoor activities, including hiking and paddling adventures.
The 8-mile Historic Alexandria Route
From the Central Lakes Trail, north of the downtown area, the scenic Alex Loop uses the quiet north/south neighborhood streets that parallel the main highway or Broadway Street from 30th Avenue. If you start at the trailhead, take a selfie with Big Ole, then visit the Runestone Museum, Fort Alexandria, and the Legacy of the Lakes Museum & Gardens. Further along this loop, the route passes the Douglas County Historical Society and several parks where ducks, geese, and pelicans are close by to view.
The 22-mile loop to Garfield, returning on the Central Lakes Trail
The Garfield Loop uses a series of streets and county roads around a couple of lakes up to the town of Garfield. Here you will find the Central Lake Trail to return to Alex.
The 35-mile North Lakes Loop
This route winds around the picturesque lakes north of Alex, offering wide paved shoulders on the designated bike-friendly routes. As you ride your bike past the lakefront communities, options for stops include Carlos Creek Winery, the 23 Northman Brewery, or several eating establishments along the way.
Prefer staying on the Central Lakes Trail?
From Big Ole, head east to Osakis or west on the Central Lakes Trail to the many towns before Fergus Falls.
To the east, Osakis is 11 miles and connects to the Wobegon Trail. To the northwest, Garfield is 8 miles, Brandon is 14 miles, and Fergus Falls, at the far end, is 44 miles.
Mountain Biking in the Alexandria Area
Would you prefer to bring your mountain bike on your next visit to Alex? Mountain biking is a growing sport in the Alexandria Area, and you can find great riding out at Kensington Runestone County Park and Lake Brophy County Park.
Runestone Park is near Kensington, and the mountain bike trails here are tons of fun with easy-to-follow signs and many add-on loops to make a ride a little longer if you want. See the map and further details here.
Lake Brophy Park is a relatively new multi-use trail system wandering through the upland prairie fields that take you to some of the best views in the county. A highlight of the park is that using the main trail gets you to the high point. At the top of the hill, 140 feet above Lake Brophy, you can choose from the easy, medium, and challenging trails to descend for an adrenaline-filled experience. See the map and further details here.
Where to stay
We stayed at the Cedar Rose Inn Bed & Breakfast for this trip to Alexandria. It is located at 422 7th Ave. West and Cedar St. is a charming B&B, and Brenda’s delicious breakfasts each morning make your visit to Alexandria even more special.
For more places to stay and things to do, see Explore Alexandria.