Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge Near The Lodge on Lake Detroit
Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge Near The Lodge on Lake Detroit

Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge

Detroit Lakes Minnesota Parks & Outdoors

Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge

Detroit Lakes Minnesota Parks & Outdoors

43,000-acre Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge hosts more than 250 species of birds and is a premier production site for trumpeter swans. The refuge features nesting bald eagles, golden-winged warblers, otters, porcupine, wolves and more. A wildlife drive and visitor center offer spectacular vistas of marshes, trees and wildlife in the refuge. Enjoy hiking trails, historic sites, hunting and fishing. The refuge is in a transition zone where tallgrass prairie, hardwood and pine forests converge, making it a haven for an abundance of wildlife. The area is characterized by gently rolling hills, pristine lakes, streams, bogs, marshes, meadows and woodlands. Photo Credit Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge.

Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge offers several miles of hiking trails. On the 2.4 mile Old Indian Hiking Trail loop (accessed from County Hwy 29) you’ll follow in the footsteps of the Ojibwe people and experience the beauty of the maple basswood forest. You can even hike a portion of the 4600 mile North Country National Scenic Trail as it traverses the refuge through a variety of habitats (ccess on 400th Ave., Blackbird Wildlife Drive or Pine Lake Parking Area on County Hwy 29).

40 mammals make their home at Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge, including Timber wolves, white-tailed deer, black bear, fisher, river otter and moose. Bird migration in spring and fall is spectacular, including: common loon, trumpeter swan, wood duck, bald eagle, ruffed grouse, pileated woodpecker, scarlet tanager, rose-breasted grosbeak, indigo bunting and 28 species of warblers are just a few of the 250+ bird species that can be seen on the refuge. Be sure to attend the Detroit Lakes Festival of Birds and enjoy a guided birding tour of Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge as part of the activities.

Refuge Highlights:

  • Snowmobiles & ATV’s are NOT allowed on the Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge.
  • A self-guided wildlife drive and hiking trails provide visitors with an opportunity for exploration and a closer look at refuge habitats and wildlife. Binoculars and a camera are essential for your visit. Contact the refuge for a schedule of summer programs at 218-847-2641.
  • Several lakes are open for fishing and species most sought-after include northern pike, walleye, largemouth bass and panfish. A Fishing Map and Regulations booklet is available for more information.
  • Spectacular autumn colors invite ruffed grouse hunters to walk trails in search of this elusive bird. The refuge is also open for other small game, waterfowl and deer. A Hunting Map and Regulations booklet is available for more information.
  • Year-round. Visitor Center Hours: 8am-4pm weekdays except federal holidays. Weekends 10am-5pm mid-May thru mid-October. 1st & 3rd Sundays 10:00am – 5:00pm Nov to mid-May. Refuge public use hours 5am-10pm.
  • There are no entrance or user fees to enjoy the refuge. Free parking.

Location: Address: 35704 County Highway 26, Rochert, MN 56578 | Tel: (218) 847-2641 | Email: Tamarac@fws.gov | Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge Website | Distance from The Lodge on Lake Detroit • 22 miles

Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge Gallery
Photo Credit Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge.

Detroit Lakes Parks & Trails

The Detroit Lakes area abounds with beautiful parks, lakes, rivers, hiking & biking trails and more. Detroit Lakes, Becker County, and the surrounding area offers so many recreational and outdoor activities that it is difficult to fit them into one visit. With over 400 lakes within a 25-mile radius, and with beautiful rivers and streams (not to mention the Mississippi Headwaters), many parks and trails have been created to provide public access.

Parks, such as the Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge, provide cross-country and snow mobiling trails in the winter– and even more trails for hiking and biking during the spring, summer and fall months. You can also enjoy the natural beauty from your car. The Lake Country Scenic Byway is an 88-mile corridor that follows Highways 34 and 71. Along its route, the Byway uniquely spans three different types of geographic terrain.

View Detroit Lakes Parks & Trails Guide

Lakefront Hotels In Detroit Lakes

About The Lodge on Lake Detroit & The Spa Within
Our Detroit Lakes Minnesota lake resort is the perfect setting to relax and enjoy brilliant sunsets and memorable nights on Big Lake Detroit. Nestled in a lovely tree-filled setting on a private 550 foot wide sandy beach, you’ll find the latest hotel style and amenities. The Lodge is independently owned and operated by Holland Hospitality, Inc., now in its third generation of providing excellence in hospitality.

With our modern amenities and thoughtful design, we stand out among other lodging choices in Detroit Lakes, MN. For couples or family getaways, we offer a variety of rooms and suites with king, queen or two queen beds. Our free hot breakfast (currently using Grab & Go Bags while Covid precautions are in place), free local calls, indoor heated pool and fitness center make the hotel a great place to recharge between enjoying Detroit Lakes attractions and activities. View hotel detail.

All rooms feature lakefront views, free Wi-Fi and wired internet, flat-screen TVs with extended channels. Rooms are equipped with mini-frige, microwaves, and coffee makers and are pet and smoke free. View accommodation detail.

Detroit Lakes Day Spa: The Spa Within at The Lodge offers an extensive menu of select spa treatment services, many of which are signature treatments exclusive to this spa. These revitalizing treatments include the use of warm and cold basalt stones for face and body, and a variety of facials and massage therapies that are sure to induce a state of deep relaxation.

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Your Guide to Year-Round Detroit Lakes Recreation & Fun!

With over 400 lakes within a 25-mile radius, Detroit Lakes lives up to its reputation as a great place for year-round outdoor activities. Whether your activity choice is in, on or below the water (or even on land) Detroit Lakes offers a great variety of things to do for your entire family.

UPCOMING EVENTS

There’s a lot going on at The Lodge year round. Be sure to subscribe to our eNews and keep an eye on our Facebook page to keep up with live musical events (Live at The Lodge), Summer Thursdays, Wine Tastings, Murder Mystery Events, Girlfriend Getaways, and so more.

“Perfect spot for Business Meetings with time to Relax, Rejuvenate and Reconnect with your clients. Want a Perfect spot for your next Business Meeting, a Group Meeting and or small conferences with time to Relax, Rejuvenate and Reconnect with your clients. Great hospitality welcomes you to The LODGE on Lake Detroit with friendly customer service, outstanding lodging environment from the comfort of your room to the sounds of the Minnesota Loons on Lake Detroit. A great selection of restaurants and golf courses are just minutes away. Close to the downtown area, great location for fishing, and all seasonal things to do and events for all to enjoy year-around in the Detroit Lakes area.”

MINNESOTA TRIPADVISOR GUEST

“We enjoyed our stay at The Lodge in Detroit Lakes, Mn. The staff was very helpful and very friendly. We stayed in the Resort Room adjoining to the Retreat Room. It was very nice for our family so we could have access to each others room and to have use of a Kitchen. We were celebrating our 40th wedding anniversary and our son was participating in the Pine to Palm Tournament. Nice location to golf course & downtown. The rooms were clean and the amenities of having a dock for our boat and use of paddle boat & Kayakes was especially nice. We enjoyed the complementary breakfast; especially the waffles and pancakes.  The Ice water cooler was very refreshing. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at The Lodge & will be back on any future trips to the Detroit Lakes area.”

KATHY M – TRIPADVISOR GUEST

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