Park Rapids Chamber

Vacation Plans start here

2010-03-01T12:22:00.000-08:00

March 2010
Vacation plans start here

Winter’s winding down, but usually Mother Nature doesn’t get the memo and delivers snow, snow and more snow and with it the opportunity to ride or ski groomed trails through the frozen forest. At least during the first part of March and maybe longer, the ice is still safe for some late season angling and a catch of crappies.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources updates snow and trail conditions in weekly reports updated after 2 p.m. every Thursday at www.dnr.state.mn.us/snow_depth/index.html. And our Chamber Website provides information about trail riding and cross country skiing possibilities as well as available lodging, dining and other things to see and do while you’re here.

Meanwhile, it’s time to plan for the glorious months of summer and ways to explore all the Park Rapids lakes area offers. Pick an activity and go with it: biking, hiking, bird watching, fishing, water skiing, tubing down the river, ATV riding, playing golf, building sand castles, sitting by the campfire, picnicking or just relaxing. Let your imagination be your guide.

Area lodging accommodations can be found to suit your style whether it’s camping under the stars, sleeping within walking distance of a golf course or staying at a cabin on a sand beach. Start here for information on 85 properties - campgrounds, motels, resorts, bed and breakfast inns, vacation homes and a hostel. Most accommodations have Websites so you can peak inside a cabin or read what other guests have to say about their stay. Or, if you prefer, ask for a copy of the 2010 Discovery Guide and page through the information you’ll find inside.

You may want to schedule a visit when one of the area’s special events is taking place and now is the time to make sure you are not disappointed. Park Rapids will be rolling out the black and orange carpet for an All-School Reunion Aug. 6-8 so alumni will want to make their plans now. Be sure to schedule a visit during Legends and Logging Days, Friday and Saturday, August 13 & 14, 2010. Thrill as World Recording Holding Lumberjack and Jills compete and Master Chain saw carvers create masterpieces before your eyes… plus, Fabulous food, Marketplace, Chili Cook Off and Family events & activities. Lets the chips fly!

Facilities are available for small meetings, family reunions and anniversary parties any time of the year.

If you need help planning a memorable and affordable visit, need more information about these and other winter activities or if you have questions, call our friendly staff at 800-247-0054 to learn more.

This Snow's for YOU

2010-02-01T06:54:00.000-08:00

February 2010
This snow’s for you

February is for snow lovers. The days are getting longer, the average temps are rising and more than 500 miles of snowmobile trails are groomed and ready to ride.

Our forest and lake trails connect directly to restaurants, gas stations and lodging where you can put your feet up by the fire or warm up in the pool, hot tub or sauna at the end of the day. And you will find fine dining, fun shops and more to do, too.
Groomed cross-country ski trails also invite exploring. Skiers at Soaring Eagle will find a warming house and at Itasca State Park the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center is open.

Our lakes have a thick layer of ice so pull up a shelter and stay awhile.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources updates snow and trail conditions in weekly reports updated after 2 p.m. every Thursday at www.dnr.state.mn.us/snow_depth/index.html. And our Chamber Website provides information about trail riding and cross country skiing possibilities as well as available lodging, dining and other things to see and do while you’re here.

You can also link to our local snowmobile and cross country ski associations for the latest news on trail conditions and grooming.

Forest Riders Snowmobile Trails, approximately 300 miles of trails. The Forest Riders Snowmobile Club was formed approximately 30 years ago and started grooming trails mainly in the Two Inlets State Forest. Over the years, trails have been added and now the trail system connects to Park Rapids, Smoky Hills, Paul Bunyan State Forest, Lake George and all through Itasca State Park.

The trails which would not be possible if not for private property owners. Please respect all signs. For more information see: http://www.forestriderstrailclub.com/winter/about_the_club/ and http://www.forestriderstrailclub.com/winter/maps/

Itasca State Park, 31 miles of snowmobile trails circle the park's perimeter and connect with other trails that lead to Park Rapids, Walker, Bemidji, Bagley, Mahnomen and Detroit Lakes.

For more information see: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/itasca/trails.html

Heartland State Trail, a 49-mile multiple use, paved trail between Park Rapids and Cass Lake. The Nevis Trailblazers Snowmobile Club grooms the east-west alternate portion of the Heartland Trail to Sno-Way 1, 5 miles west of Walker. The entire Heartland Trail is groomed for snowmobiling, however studded tracks are prohibited on the asphalt. Altogether the Trailblazers Club grooms approximately 245 miles of trails in the Paul Bunyan State Forest and Wilder Trails.
For more information see: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_trails/heartland/index.html or http://www.nevismn.com/trailblazers/trailmaps.htm.

Grant-in-Aid Trail System
Paul Bunyan State Trail, Snowmobiling is the primary winter use along both the paved and undeveloped sections of the 110-mile trail; however studded tracks are prohibited on the paved surface. The trail provides connections to many miles of groomed snowmobile trails in the county Grants-in-Aid trail system. The Heartland Trail and Paul Bunyan Trail connect 3 miles east of Akeley at the Hubbard/Cass line on Highway 34.

For more information see: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_trails/paul_bunyan/index.html and http://www.nevismn.com/trailblazers/trailmaps.htm

Huntersville State Forest and trails south of Park Rapids are maintained by the Menahga Trail Breakers.
For more information see: http://files.dnr.state.mn.us/maps/snowmobiling/map16.pdf

Chippewa National Forest Snowmobile Trails. Over 330 miles of snowmobile trails provide snowmobilers access to 1,300 lakes, scenic woodlands and frozen wetlands. Trails connected to nearly 200 miles of routes surrounding the forest. The Soo Line Trail, an old railroad grade extending from Cass Lake to Moose Lake, is the longest motorized recreation trail in Minnesota. Snowmobilers may also travel on unplowed National Forest roads unless posted closed to recreational motor vehicle use. Cross-country travel off forest roads is prohibited.

Happy Trails to you!

Everyone who heads outdoors will find breathtaking scenery the perfect backdrop to whatever activity they choose. With Valentine’s Day on February’s calendar, a winter getaway “up north” may be the way to win your Valentine’s heart.

If you time your stay, you can sample one of the following fun winter activities:

It’s not too late to buy a ticket for the 12th Annual Community Fishing Contest on Fish Hook Lake from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 6, 2010 featuring $110,000 in prizes! The grand prize in this year's raffle is a 2010 XLT Ford Truck. Sixty other raffle prizes will be awarded. Fishing prizes - for the 10th largest fish caught in any category - are an Ice Castle Fish House. Tickets for the fishing contest at $40 each are available at the American Legion or call 218-732-3360. For more information, go to www.parkrapidsfishingderby.com.

The Trailbreakers Snowmobile Club will sponsor a radar run on Spirit Lake in Menahga Sunday, Feb. 7. You’ll have plenty of time to participate or watch and still make it back in time to watch the big game.

Two fun events are planned Saturday, Feb. 13. Akeley will host Audrey’s Purple Dream Fishing Tournament on 11th Crow Wing Lake. Or step back in time and watch an old-time ice harvest on Lake Itasca. Parking will be at the Lake Itasca boat landing in Itasca State Park.

Wolf Lake’s Winter Fest Saturday, Feb. 20 provides fun for the family, including sledding and contests for all ages.

And in the evening, head to Itasca State Park for a Lantern Lit Ski and Snowshoe Hike by the light of the moon. Marshmallows will be available for roasting around the fire!

If you need help planning a memorable and affordable visit, need more information about these and other winter activities or if you have questions, call our friendly staff at 800-247-0054 to learn more.

Celebrate Winter, January 2010

2010-01-04T08:25:00.000-08:00

January 2010
Celebrate winter

We have 500 miles of groomed snowmobile trails through the woods. Snow conditions are excellent with a 12 to 14" base.

Cross country skiing is great at Soaring Eagle Ski Trail and Itasca State Park. Both have warming facilities.

Ice on our lakes is 12 to 14" thick so ice fishing is great. Do use caution, however, on lake areas where there is standing water or flowage.

So...If your New Year’s resolution is to come out of hibernation and celebrate winter, you’ve come to the right place.

A foot of snow whitens the landscape, making a picture perfect scene anywhere you look. But it’s not just pretty to look at. Hundreds of miles of groomed snowmobile and cross country ski trails take visitors to scenic vistas and hidden parts of the forest. Or if ice fishing is more to your liking for winter fun, our lakes have enough ice to plant a fish house and drop a line in pursuit of a fresh catch.

Winter lodging facilities offer a cozy place to warm up by the fire or in the pool, hot tub or sauna at day’s end. And you will find fine dining, fun shops and more to do, too.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources updates snow and trail conditions in weekly reports updated after 2 p.m. every Thursday at www.dnr.state.mn.us/snow_depth/index.html. And our Chamber Website provides information about trail riding and cross country skiing possibilities as well as available lodging, dining and other things to see and do while you’re here. If you time your stay, you can sample one of the following fun winter activities:

Soaring Eagle Fun Day is planned from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 9 at Soaring Eagle Ski Trails. Fun Day will be a low key family friendly event for both new and experienced cross country skiers. Organizers plan to have games for kids, door prizes, a campfire, cookies and hot chocolate in the warming house. Bring your own skis or check-out the new ski equipment. For more information please call Janine at 218-732-4589 or visit www.itascatur.org. In case of extremely cold weather, Fun Day will be rescheduled.

The Northern Light Opera Company will present “The Old Maid & The Thief” at Long Lake Theater in Hubbard. Enjoy the production at 7 p.m. Jan. 15 & 16 and at 3 p.m. Jan. 17. Tickets are on sale at Beagle Books in Park Rapids or contact Paul & Pat Dove at 218-732-7096.

Menahga’s Family Fishing Derby on Spirit Lake offers prizes and a day of fishing fun Saturday, Jan. 23. For more information, call Dorothy Ollanketo at 218-564-47545.

In the evening Saturday, Jan. 23, the Forest Riders Snowmobile Club hosts the annual SnoDeo Weekend Dance at the Eagles Club in Park Rapids. For more information, please call Cheryle Wilke at 218-732-5992.

A Lantern Lit Ski and Snowshoe event is planned from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 23 at Itasca State Park. Participants are invited to gather at the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center where the park naturalist will guide you to the trail to ski or snowshoe by the light of the moon. This event is dependent on weather and snow. For more information, please call 218-699-7251.

Tickets are now on sale for the 12th annual Community Fishing Contest on Fish Hook Lake Saturday, Feb. 6. The grand prize in this year's raffle is a 2010 XLT Ford Truck. Sixty other raffle prizes will be awarded. Fishing prizes - for the 10th largest fish caught in any category - are an Ice Castle Fish House. In conjunction with the fishing contest, the American Legion also sponsors a Medallion Treasure Hunt, starting Jan. 7. Tickets for the fishing contest at $40 each are available at the American Legion or call 218-732-3360. For more information, go to www.parkrapidsfishingderby.com.

A new year brings new beginnings. If you’ve resolved to come out of hibernation and need help planning a memorable and affordable visit or if you have questions, call our friendly staff at 800-247-0054 to learn more.

Find the Season's Magic Here...December 2009

2009-11-30T04:45:00.000-08:00

December 2009
Find the season’s magic here

The winter solstice soon marks the shortest day and longest night of the year and gives Santa more time to hop from rooftop to rooftop on his magical rounds. It can’t be a coincidence. We treasure silent nights and star-covered skies.

The countryside prepares for winter recreation with the same measured steps we take to decorate for the holidays. A fringe of ice is circling our lakes. Woods trails will open for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing as soon as Mother Nature endows us with more snow. The leaves have dropped, clearing the way for a distant view of green pines and white skeletons of birches and poplars and seeing birds.

’Tis the season of wreaths, music, food, festivities and good cheer. Some of us are caught up in traditions like sending cards, baking, planning get-togethers and shopping.

For those who shop here, the Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce Jingle Bells promotion tantalizes with a sweepstakes that offers five $1,000 prizes and one $5,000 prize. Participating businesses are giving customers a ticket for each $10 spent in their stores. The lucky winners will be announced at a celebration Dec. 17 at Century School. Hundreds of people gather at this annual community evening of food, music, fun and door prizes for many who attend.

A weekend or a week here to embrace the joys of the season, experience nature and take life at a different pace may be the best gift to you and yours for the holidays. Some may want to head outdoors. Others may want to enjoy a concert, go to a play or find church ladies selling homemade lefse. Visitors are always welcome to share the culture of those who live here and appreciate the area’s natural wonders.

All season, Park Rapids’ giant tree brightens Main Street on winter nights and stands as a symbol of small town cheer and good will, lighting the way to a New Year.

December and its magical pleasures await. If you need help planning a memorable and affordable visit or if you have questions, call our friendly staff at 800-247-0054 to learn more.

November 2009

2009-11-01T08:47:00.000-08:00

November 2009
Life’s simple pleasures await

Our majestic pines are showing just enough snow to remind us the landscape is changing from one of fall chores and outdoor activities to quieter pursuits with one great exception.

Firearms deer season opens Nov. 7, signaling a time of year in many households when traditions trump all else. Many young men and women are introduced to the deer stand or hunting camp for the first time as their parents (dads mostly) hope to help them succeed. Men (mostly) dress in blaze orange from head to toe, pack a lunch and head to the woods and women (mostly) either stay home to prepare hunters stew or take on the role of “hunters’ widows” and begin their Christmas shopping.

With shoppers in mind, the Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce launches its Jingle Bells promotion. Beginning Nov. 1, participating businesses give customers a ticket for each dollar spent in their stores. This sweepstakes offers five $1,000 prizes and one $5,000 prize in a drawing and celebration Dec. 17.

The November calendar offers much to see and do before that busy time, however. Unlike the bears, residents don’t go into hibernation. It’s still warm enough to hunt, hike and even fish and bike. Bald eagles still soar and the fish are still biting.

A weekend or a week here to celebrate the change of seasons reminds us that even in a time of adversity, our values and beliefs endure. In fact, as Thanksgiving approaches, we contemplate how much we value family and friends and pleasures as simple as gathering pine cones or the warmth of a fireplace.

The best Thanksgiving for our extended family was one when we headed to a small pond covered with ice and all six kids went ice skating after our big dinner. Some years, there isn’t enough ice or the snow is too deep, but that year the ice was perfect. And, after a few bumps and stumbles, the kids found their legs and made us smile.

Another activity sure to bring smiles is Park Rapids’ annual Christmas tree lighting on Main Street the Friday after Thanksgiving. This tradition comes with with caroling, a Santa visit and merchants offering hot cider and other goodies in their stores as part of a Yuletide Sampler. After the lighting ceremony, the giant tree stands as a symbol of small town cheer and good will, lighting the way to a New Year.

November and its simple pleasures await. If you need help planning a memorable and affordable visit or if you have questions, call our friendly staff at 800-247-0054 to learn more.

Fall Pictures Along the Lake Country Scenic Byway Park Rapids Lakes Area

2009-10-07T05:18:00.000-07:00

Fall's Grand Entry

2009-10-05T13:16:00.000-07:00

October 2009
Fall’s grand entry

"Even if something is left undone, everyone must take time to sit still and watch the leaves turn." - Elizabeth Lawrence
It may be time to grab a jacket before you head outdoors, but you can leave the mosquito spray at home. Fall has made a grand entry in the north woods.

Aspen, birch, maples and sumac still display a cascade of color even as tall grasses carpet the landscape in a thousand shades of earthen tones. Lakes have become sparkling centerpieces for the show even as the geese begin to abandon water and gather in golden fields to stuff themselves on their journey south.

October offers one more chance to go hiking, biking, picnicking or camping. A campfire feels just right at day’s end, and soon the harvest moon will grace the sky at sunset. Hunters walk the woods hoping to flush a grouse and set out decoys at dawn waiting for ducks to settle in. Fishing also can be productive as anglers become scarcer.

For the young and young at heart, Carter’s Red Wagon Farm in Park Rapids celebrates fall with Pumpkin Parties every weekend. September’s warm days gave growers a second chance. Carter’s and other local vendors are still offering fresh produce, including Minnesota orchard apples. It’s also the time to stock up on wild rice from this year’s harvest. There’s nothing like a bowl of steaming wild rice soup to wipe out the chill.

The October calendar is filled with possibilities and activities. If you need help putting together plans for a memorable and affordable visit or if you have questions, call our friendly staff at 800-247-0054 to learn more.

September is a Gift

2009-09-09T02:10:00.000-07:00

September 2009
September is a gift

September is a gift which Mother Nature slowly unwraps for us. First, the sumac leaves turn red as garnets and maples offer showy orange and red. Later, birches and poplars display golden leaves, all the more beautiful in contrast to the rolling green of Norways, white pines and spruce and mirrored on the water of our crystal clear lakes.

If you listen, you can hear acorns and pine cones plopping to the ground. The loons, Canada geese and other waterfowl begin gathering to fly south, noisily announcing their departure. In the morning, a mist rises from the lakes and fog obscures the sunrise, but we hear the parting calls nonetheless.

As the quiet sets in on our lakes and forests, the countryside becomes alive with activity as we finish digging vegetables from our gardens and begin harvesting our fields: potatoes, sunflowers, beans, corn and hay.
Cider replaces lemonade, sweatshirts cover tank tops and we light the fireplace against the chill. But fall is no time to stay inside. Pick your mode of transportation - walking, hiking, bicycling, motorcycling, ATVing, driving a car. It’s time to enjoy the gift.
When fall’s colors paint the landscape, beauty is inescapable. Fewer people and mosquitoes will invade your space as you explore the area’s parks, trails, byways and waterways. Suddenly, you notice the trees arching overhead and every shrub by the wayside attracting attention. Itasca State Park is never more glorious than when the colors reach their peak. Remember to bring your camera.
If you are looking for things to do in fall, head to Akeley for Hay Days Sept. 18-19. Pick up a map and visit artists’ studios and other cultural destinations in Art Leap 2009 Sept. 26-27. Sign up for the Headwaters Hundred bike ride Sept. 26. Or take part in a fall fishing tournament. The Chamber Website offers information about these and other fall events. You also can find suggestions for day trips and fall color tours.
If you need help putting together plans for a memorable and affordable visit or if you have questions, call our friendly staff at 800-247-0054 to learn more.

September is a Gift in the Park Rapids Lakes Area

2009-09-08T11:22:00.000-07:00

September is a Gift

2009-09-08T05:21:00.000-07:00

2009-08-10T06:42:00.000-07:00

August 2009
Summer’s not over ‘til it’s over

Yesterday we saw a dad and his two kids buying bait. A clerk netted small, wiggling, silvery shiners from a water tank for the trio and they headed out the door. It’s fun to imagine the rest of the story. The kids donning life jackets as their dad unloads a boat from the trailer and parks the car or maybe as they wait on the dock at a local resort for dad to load gear. Then the kids jump in and feel the breeze on their faces as the boat skims the water and they head out onto the lake.
It’s likely that between nibbles on their bait, the kids will see a loon diving under the water or an osprey or eagle circling overhead.
It’s an experience hundreds of families travel here to share each summer, youngsters learning the joy of landing a crappie, sunfish or walleye as their dad remembers the first time his dad brought him to the lake. Only the equipment has changed; the memories are the same.
If you haven’t made it up north yet; it’s not too late. Labor Day is weeks away. Our lakes, parks and trails invite exploring.
Maybe the summer memories you want to create with your family are water skiing or building a sand castle, walking across the headwaters of the Mississippi River at Itasca State Park or riding bikes as a hint of fall’s colors begin to change the landscape.
It’s not too late to plan a trip. The Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber Website can get you started. You will find events, ideas for day trips, guides to our parks, trails and attractions and information about places to stay.
We should say you may be pleasantly surprised at the “hot deals” you will find for some local accommodations as the season winds down. A stay doesn’t have to cost a bundle and many of the activities here are free or cost much less than you expect.
If you need help putting together plans for a memorable and affordable visit or if you have questions, call our friendly staff at 800-247-0054 to learn more.

Legends & Logging Days 2009

2009-07-13T07:45:00.000-07:00

July 2009

World class competitors will entertain in logging and chainsaw sculpting events at Legends & Logging Days Friday and Saturday, Aug. 7 & 8 at Red Bridge Park in Park Rapids.

Legends and Logging celebrates our area's history, culture, artisans and food at this beautiful setting on the Fish Hook River. Skilled chainsaw artists and fiercely competitive loggers will vie for honors, loons and loony contests will call, artisans and crafters will show their work and vendors will serve a variety of great food. Other events will make the two days memorable as well.
In 2009, world record-holding lumberjacks will be back to compete after last year's successful return of Logging Days events. Logging Days, Park Rapids' signature event for more 30 years, was established to honor the rich heritage of logging in this neck of the woods. The new Logging Days features World Champion and World Record-Breaking Lumberjacks and Lumberjills, competing in wood chopping and sawing contests. Points these skilled competitors earn here will count toward the Lumberjack World Championships in Hayward, WI.

Ten Master chainsaw carvers will create north woods masterpieces all day Friday and Saturday. Judges will thrill the crowd as they do "quick carves" to demonstrate their skills while the master carvers work. Competition will be keen as the chips fly and a masterpiece emerges from a raw piece of wood. This year, carvers will be competing to qualify for the 5th Annual National Chainsaw Sculpting Invitational in Hackensack Sept. 25-27. All finished carvings will be auctioned off to the highest bidders.
Visitors will also find the unique creations of area artisans at an arts and crafts show. Handcrafted jewelry, one-of-a-kind metal sculptures, embroidered textiles and an array of other fine items are available. Food vendors serve a variety of fare from buffalo burgers and corn on the cob to fresh fruit and smoothies. A chili cook-off invites entries and offers prizes.
The All Veterans Memorial Committee will sponsor the Running of the Loons, races on the Fish Hook River both days. Other activities will include the Park Rapids firefighters' water wars on Main Street, kids activities, raffle drawings and a Loggers Ball at the Park Rapids American Legion Saturday evening.

In the meantime, summer still lies ahead. Our lakes, parks and trails invite exploring or a place just to hit the refresh button and spend time with family and friends away from the routine.

The Chamber Website has all the information you need to put together a memorable stay and if you want help or have questions, call our friendly staff at 800-247-0054 to learn more.

4th of July Fun

2009-06-29T04:09:00.000-07:00

4th of July 2009

We think when Carly Simon sings, “Nobody does it better. Makes me feel sad for the rest,” she was thinking of Park Rapids on the 4th of July.

From the Firecracker Footrace at dawn to the fabulous fireworks at dusk, thousands come for a slice of American pie. (Appropriately, there is even a pie contest.)

The 31st annual Firecracker Footrace starts with registration from 6:30 to 8:15 a.m. at Heartland Park. There is a 5K Run or Walk and 10K Run plus a free kids fun run for ages 12 and under starting afterward. This fundraiser for the Park Rapids Panthers track and cross country drew 400-plus participants last year.

The tasty summer Pie Baking Contest brings out the best cooks in the countryside. Pies must be entered between 9 a.m. and noon at Beagle Books. Contest results and an auction will follow the parade. Judges will include author Will Weaver and Helen Peterson, our local Pie Queen! This will be the 3rd annual contest, a fundraiser for the Park Rapids Area Library.

If you are staying at a resort or the family cabin, many lakes have boat parades, regattas or flotillas. By any name, these delightful gatherings draw canoes, fishing boats and pontoons decorated for the day. They’re fun for participants and spectators alike.

The parade celebrates an old-fashioned 4th of July starting at 3 p.m. on North Main Avenue. Clowns, ponies, fire trucks, floats, beauty queens, music and more amaze spectators who come back year after year to see this great Park Rapids tradition.

You will be seeing cowboys and cowgirls all over town during the week. They’re here for the 31st annual Park Rapids Bull Ride (July 2, 3 and 4th). Performances start at 6:30 p.m. on Highway 34 east. This PBR event features world class bull riders as well as Freestyle Moto X, Kids Sheep Riding, Cowboy Poker and nightly dances.

At 7:30 p.m. the Park Rapids Area Community Band gives a Pre-Fireworks Concert at Red Bridge Park. Listening to the patriotic marches and other music in the band’s repertoire is sure to send chills down your spine and remind you why we celebrate Independence Day.

Thanks to terrific support from the community and those who never miss being in Park Rapids on the 4th, the Park Rapids Rotary Club fireworks will be bigger and better than ever this year. Bring a lawn chair or blanket to Red Bridge and Heartland Parks or launch your boat on the Fish Hook River before dusk and wait for the show to begin.

The Chamber Website has all the information you need to put together a memorable stay and if you want help or have questions, call our friendly staff at 800-247-0054 to learn more.

2009-06-19T08:36:00.001-07:00

Park Rapids Fishing Report June 18th, 2009
Anglers visiting the Park Rapids over the past week have been greeted by inconsistent fishing success. Fluctuating weather patterns and water temperatures that rise one day and fall the next have put many fish species in a state of uncertainty. However, there is a silver lining to the saturated clouds which loomed above the area last week- after only a couple days of consistent weather patterns, the fishing should hit a peak. Walleye have been the most cantankerous out of all the fish species this week. While some anglers land a few nice ones in 10-15 ft, other anglers encounter active schools in 18-25 feet. But the theme has been "here today, gone tomorrow". What worked out yesterday doesn't necessarily equate to a bend in the rod today. So in other words, stay flexible, explore various structures and don't be afraid to travel coast to coast on a lake and search from shallow to deep. Northern pike on the other hand have been keeping the anglers focused by snatching their minnows and flashy spoons, spinners and crankbaits in between the walleye bites. Look for newly developing cabbage weeds in 6-15 feet of water to catch a toothy pike.The panfish (both crappie and bluegill) have for the most part finished spawning and have set up camp on the underwater weedlines in 6-15 feet (very similar to the pike since they're a food source for the northerns). A great presentation to catch those bull bluegill and slab crappie is a Northland Tackle Panfish Tube. It looks just like a minnow fry and the fish absolutely love it. Bass have been extremely active and the majority of both largemouth and smallmouth have completed the spawning process. Right now you can find both species shallow and deep. Smallmouth will gravitate toward rock, rubble and sand, while largemouth tend to prefer lilypads, reeds, and deeper weed varieties like cabbage weeds and coontail. The muskie action has been a little slow, but most anglers are reporting curious follows with a few muskie landed here and there. Main lake humps and points have been more productive than lengthy shoreline breaks. A few days of clear sunny skies should get the muskie excited to grab a quick meal; just one great reason to head to the Park Rapids area!
Jason Durham Go Fish! Guide Service Park Rapids, MN (218)237-2092 home 218-252-2278 cellularwww.go-fish-guides.com

2009-06-12T13:18:00.000-07:00

Park Rapids Area Fishing Report, June 7th, 2009
Unstable weather had kept the fish on the move and anglers desperately trying to stay both warm and dry. However, those who continue to venture onto our area lakes are finding good success, despite Mother Nature’s uncertainty.
Walleye anglers are still catching fish in relatively shallow water, 8-15 feet of water with leeches (the bigger, the better) working well. Nice “eater-sized” fish have been most prevalent, but the larger females have really been active too, with some real trophies boated in the past week.
Muskie anglers started the season last Saturday, greeted by overcast skies and hot action. A number of boats landed nice fish, with a 50.5 inch fish topping the reports. Some fish are sitting on the shallow sand flats, while other, more active fish are cruising the weedlines.
Bass have been quite active as the largemouth finish up their spawn and smallmouth get started. The largemouth have been both very shallow and on medial depth weedlines. A soft plastic bait like Northland Tackles Slurpies Dipstick Worm is versatile and fools the largemouth in both situations.
Northern pike action has been fair, but the size has been better than average. As the water warms and the weather stabilizes, expect pike activity to heighten. Right now, most fish are relatively shallow as they prey upon spawning sunfish.
Speaking of panfish, the bluegill have started to spawn, but were rudely interrupted by cool temperatures, high winds and rain. Nests that were occupied under sunny skies have been temporarily abandoned as the fish moved into weeds in 6-10 feet of water. Those fish will likely return to the shallow water in the next few days.
Larger female crappie have started to move out onto the weedlines, though the smaller male fish continue to wander in shallow reeds, cattails and lilypads. In our area, the “go-to” crappie jig is a 1/16th ounce Irv’s Magic Jig. But expect to catch a few bass, bluegill, and northern pike even though the target is crappie.

Fishing Report - April 20, 2009

2009-06-02T06:14:00.000-07:00

Park Rapids Area Fishing Report April 20, 2009

Fishing in the Park Rapids area has been slow as of late, simply because the lakes are transitioning from ice to open water. A few anglers have been testing their fishing success around open water flowages, where a few early season panfish have been caught. However, the fishing has been pretty slow.
Many lakes should open up this week or next and anglers are sure to be out in droves, making sure their boats are operating correctly as the 2009 Minnesota Fishing Opener approaches.
Stream trout fishing opened last weekend and anglers had varied success. The Straight River had some activity with anglers doing best with live bait for the trout.
It won’t be long and the walleye will begin to spawn, beginning first in areas with current and then natural lakes. Please remember to leave those fish alone since they are not in season and can earn you a stiff fine from a conservation officer.
Northern pike have been spawning in back bays and grassy backwaters. It’s interesting that such a large fish will travel into some of the shallowest, weedy areas to reproduce. Again, be sure to let those fish reproduce in peace to ensure a bumper crop of future pike.

Park Rapids Lakes Area Vacation Values

2009-05-31T07:36:00.000-07:00

June 2009

If you are still deciding when and where to spend a week or a weekend this summer, we invite you to discover the Park Rapids Lakes Area.

For generations, families have headed north to stay at a cabin with pines, birches and a breeze from the lake supplying natural air conditioning. Visitors also know the joy of trading an evening in front of the TV screen for a chair placed squarely on the deck or dock to watch a perfect sunset (or sunrise).

From dawn to dusk, plan a day of biking, golfing, horseback riding, fishing or playing on the water. Walk across the Mississippi River at its headwaters in Itasca State Park and learn about the importance of the Mighty Mississippi in the development of our great country.

Our communities know how to put a smile on your face with friendly service and visitor information, whether it’s the best place to catch fish or find great food. Park Rapids’ historic Main Street is legendary for its unique center street parking and fun shops to explore.

Summer festivals celebrate our heritage. Akeley Paul Bunyan Days, Nevis Muskie Days, Menahga Midsummer Festival, the Lake George Blueberry Festival and Park Rapids Legends and Logging provide family fun from horseshoe pitching contests to parades, chainsaw sculpture competition and a virtual smorgasbord of ethnic and seasonal food. If you can be here on the 4th of July, Park Rapids’ celebration is like no other with boat parades, the PBR Bull Ride, a grand parade on Main Street and music and fireworks on the Fish Hook River.

Quality entertainment may surprise first-timers. We have summer stock theater, Branson-style music shows, an upcoming production of “Fiddler on the Roof,” art shows, craft fairs and other nightly and special events to round out a day.

Once you’re here, there’s a lot to see and do that’s free. It costs nothing to watch an eagle soar, walk along the Heartland Trail and see wildflowers and wildlife, fish from a dock - you get the picture.

The Chamber Website has all the information you need to put together a memorable stay and if you want help or have questions, call our friendly staff at 800-247-0054 to learn more.

Spring pictures

2009-05-09T10:03:00.000-07:00

Spring Comes to the Park Rapids Lakes Area

2009-04-23T02:11:00.000-07:00

April 2009

It is truly spring in the north woods. The Great Blue Herons are diving into ice-free lakes and the loons are calling out their happy return.

Or as a writer named Doug Larson put it: “Spring is when you feel like whistling even with a shoe full of slush.”

Our shoes here at your Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce tread carefully as we put everything together in preparation for the launch of our new Website April 30. We sorted through thousands of pieces of information and, like puzzle masters, have worked to put them together into a whole that will serve our members in a new and better way. Now that the picture is whole again, we hope you will walk through the site, let us know if we have missed something and call on us to help you better promote your own business as partners with us.

The new Website will always be a work in progress and it will be better with your help.
Let us know your “Hot Deals.” Contribute to our calendar with your events. Link your Website to your business presence on our site. If technology isn’t your friend, don’t be afraid to ask for help.

We know everyone is putting on a welcome face in preparation for the fishing opener in two weeks. Many of our “snowbirds” have returned, smiling and suntanned. It is part of life here that we are optimists at the beginning of each new season and its progression of change. In spite of the economy, we have every reason to be hopeful this will be a good year.

Traditionally, when the going gets tough, people stay closer to home when they travel and are mindful of what’s important in their lives - family and time away from their stress and worry. We are their destination for enjoying life. Our accommodations are their personal retreat and our wonderful community is their home away from home.

That is all we need to remember - and we can whistle as we welcome them all to our north woods home.