Memories are guaranteed when biking, hiking, or paddling in the Willmar Lakes area. Located in west-central Minnesota, along the glacial ridge, you’ll find a perfect place for outdoor fun for the whole family to enjoy. You’re bound to find something that suits you while exploring Willmar.
- Glacial Lakes State Trail – Enjoy the glacial terrain while biking or hiking
- Paddling the Lakes – Stay cool in over 30 lakes perfect for swimming, fishing, and kayaking
- Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center – Mountain bike through the woods and prairies
- Robbins Island Regional Park – Offers bike/hike trails with opportunities to observe wildlife
- Sibley State Park – Hike “Nature at its Best,” in Central Minnesota.
Where to Bike in the Area
The Glacial Lakes State Trail is an excellent destination for biking or hiking. You will enjoy over 20 miles of scenic trails that meander through the rolling countryside with views of farm fields, wooded areas, marshes, and lakes between the towns of Willmar, Spicer, New London, and Hawick. The trail from New London goes west out to Sibley State Park. It is at this state park that you will find additional trails inside the park for mountain biking.
Or, if you are a more adventurous, pedal the cottage roads that meander around some of the 30 lakes in the Willmar Lakes area. For mountain bikers, the trails around the Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center and Sibley State Park are a must.
Available Bike Maps in the Area
HaveFunBiking Willmar Lakes Area Map
Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center Mountain bike map
Sibley State Park mountain bike map
Hiking
The Willmar Lakes Area offers a diverse range of hiking experiences. The Glacial Lakes State Trail is a popular choice, offering a paved path that connects several communities. In contrast, Sibley State Park features 18 miles of hiking trails with varying difficulty levels.
Downtown Willmar Walking Map – with 18 points of interest
Parks in the Willmar Area to hike
Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center walking Trails
Sibley State Park hiking trails map
Paddling
Explore the lakes in Kandiyohi County.
Willmar Lakes Water Trails Map
Area Bike Shop and Rentals
Rick’s Cycling and Sports Center 320 3rd St. S.W., Willmar (320) 235-0202
Willmar Lakes Recreational Rentals
Where to play when not in nature?
After pedaling, paddling, or hiking with family or friends, take in some of the other fun activities the Willmar Lakes area offers.
Dorothy Olson Aquatic Center – The facility offers entertainment for all ages, diving boards, and two raging water slides. – 1601 22nd St. S.W., Willmar (320) 441-2018
Kandiyohi County Historical Society and Museum – The Kandiyohi County Historical Society is a non-profit dedicated to preserving, discovering, and sharing the story of Kandiyohi County. It also offers a beautiful and exciting museum and research center. | 610 Hwy 71 Srv Rd., Willmar (320) 235-1881
The Barn Theatre – The Barn Theatre provides affordable, quality performing arts. | 321 4th St. S.W., Willmar (320) 235-9500
Willmar Area Arts Council – The Area Arts Council showcases numerous pieces of art and features a large gallery with diverse and exciting sculptures, paintings, and exhibitions. | 611 5th St. S.W., Willmar (320) 235-8560
KRA Speedway – The speedway is a 3/8-mile dirt track with large seating areas for spectating mud-slinging racing. | 781-899 7th St NW, Willmar (320) 552-0255
Glacial Ridge Winery – Glacial Ridge Winery is a beautiful winery situated amidst lakes and stunning scenery. The winery offers tours, tastings, and sampling of their award-winning wines. The apple orchard contains over 800 trees of 12 different varieties. – 15455 Co. Rd., Suite 131, Spicer, (320) 796-9463
See more fun attractions.
Local Events for more fun
Add to your memories when visiting with these Events
Where to Eat
Discover the rich flavors of Willmar, MN!
Here you will find ethnic food restaurants that are a true testament to the community’s vibrant culture. Whether you’re a foodie or just curious, there’s always something new to try. Find several interesting and charming cafes, coffee shops, and ice cream shops, making it an ideal destination for outdoor adventure enthusiasts.
See all the dining options here.
Where to Sleep When Visiting
The Willmar Lakes area offers a variety of accommodations, including hotels, resorts, and campgrounds.
Public Wi-Fi Spots
Along with most hotels, coffee shops, and restaurants that have Wi-Fi availability, the public library is another good option. The Willmar Public Library is located at 410 5th St. S.W., Willmar, MN 56201 and can be reached at 320-235-3162.
* See the Explore Willmar Lakes AreaTourism Bureau for more detailed information.