by Andrew Ellis
A favorite fall adventure for me is visiting Albert Lea, Minnesota. As leaves change color and waterfowl migration begins, it’s a one-tank getaway that offers numerous biking and hiking opportunities to witness the natural changes. While enjoying the beautiful views around Fountain Lake, you can also connect to the Blazing Star State Trail to explore Myre-Big Island State Park.
Fall adventures in bike-friendly Albert Lea
It’s less than a two-hour drive down Interstate 35 from Minneapolis. After passing the I-90 crossroad, pull into Albert Lea and prepare for outdoor fun. Known as the Land Between the Lakes, the city sits between Fountain Lake and Albert Lea Lake. It is a prime destination for soaking in the rays while biking, hiking, or paddling here. Getting around on your bike from several lodging options is easy with the city’s low-traffic bike lanes and trails. After checking in at one of the hotels, riding around this southern Minnesota community is exciting as nature makes some spectacular changes.
Touring around Albert Lea Lake
In town, it is recommended to tour Fountain Lake by bike in a clockwise direction. This route is reminiscent of riding around the Lake of the Isles in Minneapolis. With beautifully landscaped lawns along the fingered shoreline, a ride around the lake is very picturesque. Especially with ducks, geese, and swans feeding in the waters as they prepare for their flight south.
After returning to the downtown area of Albert Lea, you will find many options for lunch. Then, it’s time to ride on the paved Blazing Star State Trail to Myre-Big Island State Park for more flora and fauna adventures.
Myre-Big Island State Park and the Blazing Star State Trail
In Myre-Big Island State Park, you will find hiking trails, a mountain bike trail system, and a paved trail for cyclists of all skill levels to enjoy. The park offers approximately seven miles of wide, grassy trails in three loops, strung alongside the State trail for mountain bikers. The Blazing Star State Trail is paved and runs from the edge of the downtown area, approximately six miles to the State Park.
Both trail systems meander through the open prairie meadows with some young woodland near Lake Albert Lea, which is excellent for wildlife viewing. The park features pleasant rolling hills and is also a fantastic place for spotting many bird species.
Road Biking Opportunities
Exploring the area by road bike is easy, too. You can use the roads to navigate both around town and rural routes throughout southern Minnesota. There’s even a dedicated bike lane to get you in and out of town safely. From past Rock n’ Roll the Lakes events, here are the printable maps for the 10-mile loop option and the 30/50-mile loop option for your enjoyment.
More about Albert Lea
When you need a break from the outdoors, there’s plenty to keep your adventure going. There are locally owned shops and one-of-a-kind restaurants, and the area’s history will complement your bike or hike adventure. Check out more here and enjoy Albert Lea in the fall.