Central Lakes Trail-Lake Wobegon Trail-Melrose, MN

I had to put on a puffy jacket this morning while I drank my morning camp coffee: 53 degrees! It was a little breezy which required a vest for riding the first hour or so. Those back home should be jealous. 

We left our perfect county park just before 8 and headed for Alexandria to visit Big Ole and grab some breakfast, about 16 miles SE. This section of trail is the most beautiful with dozens of the 10,000 lakes MN claims. There’s a big debate between Minnesota and Wisconsin as to who has the most lakes. Like most arguments these days, each side makes their case with their facts in hand. It turns out that each state defines a “lake” a bit different. Defining their terms, each claims victory. Such is the way of most debates these days. 

Regardless, the lakes and the surrounding country are absolutely gorgeous. All Glory to the Creator. 

We found Northwoods Cafe in Alexandria and for the price of one meal we experienced out west, we both ate a hearty meal. 

Big Ole was waiting for us in the usual meeting place a block from the Kensington Runestone Museum. Local lore suggests the Runestone is evidence of Viking explorers to the area in 1362. It was found by a local farmer in 1898. It’s authenticity is suspect, but I’m not arguing. Regardless, plenty of Viking descendants occupy this landscape now and for a century or more. 

From Brandon, we traveled the Central Lakes trail through Garfield, Alexandria, Nelson, ending that trail in Osakis. My mom was born in Osakis. I stopped at the visitor center. There was a document from WWI with signatures of local soldiers. A Samson( my mother’s family) had signed it. I could not make out the first name. But Grandpa Samson was a WWI vet. 

The trail continued Southeast but renamed the Lake Wobegon Regional Trail, from the mythical town and lake made famous by Prairie Home Companion. We traveled through West Union, Sauk Centre, finally landing in Melrose where you can camp in their city park for $10. And the baseball game is free. Well, it’s looks like it’s just practice. 

Residents take pride in their towns. I’m fascinated how clean and well kept their common areas are. Very welcoming. And many folks create a visual paradise on their property, whether gardens open to visit or historical re-creations. Folks are real friendly. As we roll to a stop where the trail intersects with a local road, the cars actually stop and wave you through. 

We have one more day on the Lake Wobegon Trail. Headed to Bowlus and Jordie’s Trail Side Cafe.