As of recently I have been making a point to explore close to home. Not only for financial reasons- but because North Dakota, Minnesota, and surrounding states have so many beautiful places to see and wonderful things to do.
I have found beauty in discovering the hidden gems that are in and around my area.
For example: Maplewood State Park!
How to Get There
Maplewood State Park is just under an hour from Fargo, and about three hours from Minneapolis. The majority of travel is on the interstate, but the drive gets beautiful as you turn off onto small highways and travel through Pelican Rapids.
What to Bring
There are a few things I found useful while at Maplewood State Park, and a few things I wish I had brought. This list includes them all!
Good walking shoes or boots- I cannot express enough how happy I was that I wore my hiking boots and not my tennis shoes (or runners for my Canadians) for this one. Although a lot of the path was grassy and easy to navigate, there were some sandy areas…. and a lot of horse poop.
Layers- I would suggest bringing layers. Midwest weather is a different beast, and we all know “it would be nice if it wasn’t for the wind!”
Water- Depending on how long you’re planning on being at the park, pack water accordingly. There are plenty of short trails, but some are as long as 7 miles. (chances are, if you are planning on walking 7 miles, you already know what the f*** you’re doing about your water) There are VERY few places to fill a water bottle, so pack in your water.
A light snack- This goes along with the water, pack accordingly!
Bug repellent- I cannot stress this enough! The bugs were bad, especially near the water. I didn’t bring some myself and I am currently resisting the urge to scratch the bites on my legs as I write this!
Sunscreen- A lot of trails wind in and out of the trees. There are plenty of shaded areas, but it’s easy to spend a lot of time in the sun, particularly while walking along the water. Never hurts to apply that SPF!
Camera/Phone/Tripod- One of my favorite parts of seeing beautiful places it taking pictures. I love capturing the moments and keeping them as memories. Make sure you bring something to take photos with, there are many scenic opportunities.
What to Expect
I spent about 2 hours hiking around the main trails, and then drove over to Hallaway Hill.
The Trails
There are a variety of different trail throughout the park, out and backs, loops, and lookouts!
I started near Cataract Lake (who came up with that name?) and followed Hiking Club Trail down to Cow Lake. On my way back I wrapped around Bass Lake, went past the campground (Q, BB, CC) and hopped back on Hiking Club Trail to return to the parking area.
The trails are primarily grass and sand. And as previously mentioned there was A LOT of horse poop. You would be fine in more casual shoes at the beach area and the overlook, but I can’t stress enough how happy I was wearing my hiking boots on the other trails.
There are so many different trail options whether you’re just wanting to check things out quickly, or hit all of the Minnesota Hiking Club trails!
Hallaway Hill
Hallaway Hill as a backdrop to Lake Lida is stunning! I was there just as the leaves were starting to change and I absolutely fell in love.
There’s a short trail along the beach where I went after my hike.
There’s a second trail (.4 miles) along the opposing hill that also allows for beautiful views of Lake Lida and Hallaway Hill!
Things to Do in Otter Tail County
I have only been to Maplewood State Park in Otter Tail county, but I have a list of things I want to do when I go back!
Visit Glendalough State Park
Get drinks at Disgruntled Brewery
and
Check out Pete the Pelican in Pelican Rapids
I had a wonderful time at Maplewood State Park, and I can’t wait to get back and explore more in the area.
Looking for more on Minnesota State Parks? Check out my posts on Gooseberry Falls State Park, and Jay Cooke State Park!
