About

Traveling the Otter Trail Scenic Byway, visitors discover a land steeped in tradition and beauty. This Byway offers more than 1,000 sparkling lakes and wildlife-filled wetlands, 19th century flour mills, scenic trails and spectacular roadside sculptures. There are many intriguing historic sites, informational markers, and the rich natural and cultural resources that make this picturesque route an attraction for visitors from around the world.

Otter Tail County is one of Minnesota’s most productive agricultural regions as well as one of its best-known all-season recreational areas. With fishing and watersports, golfing, hunting, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing, this lovely land of lakes and forests is the perfect year-round vacation spot for the entire family.

The Byway connects many of the county’s scenic and historic locales. Pass by tribal hunting grounds and battle sites of great Indian nations. Trace the routes of fur traders and explorers. Learn about an old Mormon colony, the first permanent white settlement in the county. See where towns were platted, boomed and died. Discover the important roles played by railroads and European immigrants in developing the region. So hit the trail! You’re in for an adventure, scenic beauty and a fascinating learning experience on the Otter Trail Scenic Byway.

Length

150 miles

Route

Circular drive links Fergus Falls, Pelican Rapids, Perham and Battle Lake

Scenery

Rolling countryside dotted with lakes, stands of woods, farmland. This serene drive in pastoral Otter Tail county visits the forests and lakes of Maplewood State Park and Glendalough State Park, a scenic overlook at Inspiration Peak, and the 1889 Phelps