Ottertail Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Ottertail, Minnesota with our comprehensive guide that includes must visit places, things to do, where to stay, safety tips, and transportation options.


Introduction to Ottertail

Welcome to Ottertail, a small town located in northwestern Minnesota that is known for its serene lakes, breathtaking natural beauty, and friendly locals. Whether you are interested in outdoor adventures or want to soak up the local culture, Ottertail has something for everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we will help you plan your trip to Ottertail with our detailed list of must-visit places, top things to do, best places to stay, and more. So, let’s get started.

List of Places to Visit in Ottertail

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Historic Phelps Mill: A beautifully preserved flour mill that dates back to the early 1900s and is now a popular tourist attraction.
  • Otter Tail County Historical Society Museum: Features exhibits and artifacts that showcase the history and culture of Ottertail County and its residents.
  • Prospect House & Civil War Museum: An elegant Victorian-style mansion that was once the home of a Civil War hero and now serves as a museum with exhibits about the war and life in the late 1800s.

Natural Attractions of Ottertail: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Otter Tail Lake: The largest lake in Ottertail County, offering crystal-clear waters and a variety of water-based activities like fishing, boating, and swimming.
  • Glendalough State Park: A stunning natural park that boasts over 22 lakes, miles of hiking trails, and scenic views of the surrounding hills and forests.
  • Maplewood State Park: Another beautiful natural park with a diverse range of habitats, including oak savannas, lakes, and grasslands, and is home to a variety of wildlife species.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ottertail

  • Ottertail River Trail: A 4.3-mile paved trail that meanders through scenic Ottertail County and is perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride.
  • Central Lakes Trail: A 55-mile paved trail that runs through Ottertail County and connects several small towns, including Fergus Falls and Alexandria.

Best Things to Do in Ottertail: Activities and Tours

  • Fishing: Ottertail County is known for its excellent fishing, with a variety of fish species like walleye, bass, and northern pike.
  • Boating: Ottertail Lake is a popular destination for boating enthusiasts, with several marinas and rental options available.
  • Golfing: Ottertail has several top-rated golf courses, including Thumper Pond and Balmoral Golf Course.
  • Snowmobiling: During the winter months, Ottertail County is transformed into a winter wonderland with miles of snowmobile trails to explore.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ottertail

Day Activity
1 Explore historic downtown Ottertail, visit Historic Phelps Mill
2 Go fishing or boating on Otter Tail Lake
3 Hike the trails at Glendalough State Park
4 Take a leisurely bike ride on the Central Lakes Trail
5 Visit the Otter Tail County Historical Society Museum
6 Play a round of golf at Thumper Pond
7 Enjoy a snowmobile ride through the winter wonderland

Food and Drink Scene of Ottertail

Must-Try Dishes

  • Minnesota Hot Dish: A classic comfort food made with ground beef, tater tots, and cream of mushroom soup.
  • Walleye Sandwich: A local specialty made with fresh walleye caught from Otter Tail Lake.
  • Wild Rice Soup: A hearty soup made with wild rice and vegetables, often served with a bread roll.

Local Beverages

  • Beer from Disgruntled Brewing: A local craft brewery that serves up unique and flavorful beers, perfect for relaxing after a long day of exploring.
  • Coffee from Otter Coffee Co.: A cozy coffee shop that roasts their coffee beans in-house and serves up delicious coffee and pastries.

Where to Stay in Ottertail: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Thumper Pond Resort: A luxurious resort that offers a wide range of amenities, including golfing, a spa, and access to Otter Tail Lake.
  • Balmoral Resort: An upscale resort that also offers golfing and lake access, as well as an outdoor pool and hot tub.
  • Otter Lodge: A cozy and affordable option right in downtown Ottertail.

What to Buy in Ottertail: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Ottertail-themed Clothing and Gifts: Show your love for Ottertail with a t-shirt or baseball cap emblazoned with the town’s name or image.
  • Artisanal Soaps from Ottertail Soap Company: Handmade soaps that come in a variety of scents and are made with all-natural ingredients.

Local Culture and Customs of Ottertail

  • Locals are friendly and welcoming to visitors.
  • The area has a strong Scandinavian heritage, which is reflected in the local cuisine and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Ottertail

The best time to visit Ottertail depends on your preferences. Summer months are ideal for outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and hiking. Winter months offer snowmobiling and other winter activities. Spring and fall offer milder weather and quieter crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ottertail

Do:

  • Be respectful of the locals and their customs.
  • Try the local cuisine and visit the historical sites.

Don’t:

  • Ignore safety precautions when participating in outdoor activities.
  • Litter or damage the natural environment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ottertail

  • Always follow safety guidelines when participating in outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and hiking.
  • Stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially when venturing into remote areas.

Health in Ottertail

  • In case of any medical emergencies, call 911 or visit the nearest hospital or urgent care center.
  • It’s always a good idea to travel with a basic first aid kit.

Getting to Ottertail: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ottertail

  • Hector International Airport, Fargo, North Dakota (FAR): About 70 miles from Ottertail.
  • Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport (MSP): About 180 miles from Ottertail.

Bus Stations Near Ottertail

  • Greyhound Bus Station, Fargo, North Dakota: About 70 miles from Ottertail.

Other Options

  • Driving: Ottertail is easily accessible by car via Interstate 94.
  • Amtrak: The nearest Amtrak station is in Detroit Lakes, about 25 miles from Ottertail.

How to Get Around in Ottertail

The easiest way to get around Ottertail is by car. Several car rental companies are available at major airports and bus stations. Biking is also a popular option for short trips around town.

Where to Go Next from Ottertail: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Fargo, North Dakota: A vibrant college town with excellent dining options and cultural attractions.
  • Duluth, Minnesota: A bustling harbor city with stunning natural beauty and a vibrant arts scene.

Conclusion

Ottertail is a hidden gem in northwestern Minnesota and a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. From outdoor adventures to cultural attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this charming town. We hope this guide has helped you plan your trip to Ottertail and that you have a fantastic time exploring this beautiful part of the country.