Colonel George Johnston is considered to be the founder of Detroit Lakes. He came to Minnesota in 1871 and built a flour mill where the Pelican River flows into Detroit Lake. The city of Detroit Lakes, originally called just "Detroit", began on the north side of the railroad tracks and boasted the first grain warehouse on the Northern Pacific Railroad west of Duluth. The city gradually extended south to Big Detroit Lake. The Detroit Lakes area boasts more than 412 lakes within a 25-mile radius and features many events and attractions for residents and visitors alike to enjoy.
WE Fest: The largest outdoor country music camping festival in the world. Held at the Soo Pass Ranch south of Detroit Lakes, this three day open air music camping fest features some of the world's biggest names in country music. Held the first weekend in August.
Spirit Fest: Outdoor Christian music camping festival held at the Soo Pass Ranch south of Detroit Lakes. This 3-day family event features all styles of music from traditional gospel to rock and roll to rap and rhythm and blues. Children's activities are planned each day as well. Held the third weekend in July.
Northwest Water Carnival: An annual week-long extravaganza held each July and featuring beach games, dances, the crowning of Miss Northwest, a large parade and other activities for the entire family.
Golfing: The Detroit Lakes area boasts 10 championship golf courses and host the exclusive Pine to Palm Golf Tournament each August.
Fishing: The Detroit Lakes area is a fishermen's paradise offering Walleye, Muskie, Northern Pike, Bass, Crappie, Rainbow Trout and an assortment of panfish in its 412 lakes. During the winter months you may rent fish houses and other fishing equipment. Guide services available...contact Dick Beardsley at 218-846-9230.
Winter Activities: The Detroit Lakes area provides more than 200 miles of groomed snowmobile trails, 35 miles of groomed cross-country skiing trails and downhill skiing at Detroit Mountain located 3 miles South East of Detroit Lakes. Direct snowmobile trail access from your room.
Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge: This 43,000-acre wildlife refuge bursts with natural habitat including more than 200 bird species. It adjoins Itasca State Park and is Headwater of the Mississippi River. Featured are Visitors Center, auto tour, hiking trails, picnic area, fishing, hunting and cross-country skiing. Also has the largest population of nesting bald eagles in the lower 48 states. 218-847-2641.
Becker County Historical Society and Museum: Houses the Historical Society's Archival Library and Research Center focusing on Becker County history as well as family histories. Features many artifacts, photographs and displays. Located at Summit Avenue and West Front Street. 847-2938.
Hamden Slough Wildlife Refuge: Preserves prairie wetlands and grasses and attracts spring and fall migratory birds. Located 1 mile NE of Audubon. 218-839-6319.
Dead Horse Creek Shooting Preserve: Features an 8-field 16-station shooting course simulating hunting situations. Frazee. 334-HUNT (4868).
Itasca State Park: Maintains 20 miles of groomed snowmobile trails which connect to other trails. Cross-country skiing, snow shoeing and ice fishing are also popular. Source of the Mississippi River. Hwy 71 NE of Detroit Lakes. 218-266-2114 (summer); 218-266-2100 (winter).
Other Activities: Also available for your enjoyment in the Detroit Lakes Area are several amusement parks, horse back riding, skindiving, jet ski rentals, snowmobile rentals, rollerblading, river tubing, casino gambling and many gift shops and flea markets. Our staff is happy to help you with any questions you may have.
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