Itasca State Park
Minnesota’s oldest state park, Itasca State Park was established in 1891. Today, the park totals more than 32,000 beautiful acres which includes more than 100 lakes. Guests walk across the mighty Mississippi river as it starts its long, winding journey 2,552 miles to the Gulf of Mexico. Stand under the towering pines at Preacher’s Grove. Enjoy your visit at the Itasca Indian Cemetery or Wegmann’s Cabin, landmarks of centuries gone by. Camp under the stars, or you may opt to stay the night at the historic Douglas Lodge or cabins. Explore Wilderness Drive past the 2,000-acre Wilderness Sanctuary, which is one of Minnesota’s seven National Natural Landmarks.
Itasca Park is located on Highway 71 North of the Park Rapids resort area, just 30 minutes from West Crooked Lake Resort.
Heartland State Trail
You can bike to Dorset by starting at one end of Park Rapids, from the other end of Walker, or from Akeley and Nevis in between. Many prefer to anchor in Dorset (where the trailhead is located), which has a multitude of fine restaurants, shops & fun. There is plenty of paved parking, toilets, picnic tables, water from a hand pump, and a playground to keep the kids amused while you rest on a bench.