Park Rapids – Where the Mighty Mississippi Begins…

We’re home to the Headwaters of the Mississippi at Itasca State Park. Since our lakes and woods never close, there are plenty of year-round activities, from silent sports such as hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing to motorsports enjoying water recreation, ATVs, and snowmobiles. Savor the flavors of Dorset, the “Restaurant Capital of the World,” or stroll through the shops on Main in scenic Downtown Park Rapids. Immerse yourself in the arts and history. Our business directory lists the very best we have to offer. Whether you choose to vacation, work, or move to the area, you will be happy you did. Take pleasure in hundreds of pristine lakes, miles of trails, and unique shopping in the Park Rapids Lakes Area. Find out more here, or call 218-732-4111, and we’ll be happy to help you.

Community Corner

Cor PowerSports 2025 Heartland 200

Park Rapids is set to host the 2025 Heartland 200 by Cor PowerSports on January 25-26. The Heartland
200 snowmobile event is part of a multi-event snowmobile racing series with national coverage. The race will take place on Fish Hook Lake on 1/25 and 1/26.

Backed by major manufacturers and snowmobile enthusiasts, the Heartland 200 draws visitors and spectators from Canada, Michigan, Wisconsin, and the Dakotas. A huge thank you goes out to our presenting sponsors, Hugo’s Family Marketplace, the Park Rapids Convention and Visitors Bureau, and all other sponsors for their generous assistance in bringing the Heartland 200 back to Park Rapids in 2025!

The Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce is coordinating this event with the series owner, Todd Myers, and a local organizing committee. The Heartland 200 is a highlight of the race series for
participants having been voted “Best Race” in 2017 and 2023.

Snow Sculpture Contest

Celebrate the magic of winter at a Snow Sculpture Event in Depot Park, Park Rapids, on Saturday, Feb. 15, and Sunday, Feb. 16.

Hosted by the City of Park Rapids and Park Rapids Arts and Culture Advisory Commission, this event invites six teams to each transform a single large block of snow into a unique, creative sculpture of their choice.

Whether you’re experienced or just looking for a fun winter challenge, this is your chance to showcase your creativity!
The first six teams to register will be selected, with two alternates as backups. So, don’t wait to sign up!

Entry forms are available by clicking here or at City Hall. The deadline to enter is Friday, Feb. 7.

Take a Kid Ice Fishing/Free Park Day

What a great weekend to get out and make some family memories! Take a Kid Ice Fishing starts on the 18th and runs through the 20th, which happens to be free park day! Any MN resident adult fishing with kids aged 15 and younger doesn’t need to have a fishing license and Free Park Day means you can enjoy all state parks without paying an entrance fee.

Click here for more info on Take a Kid Ice Fishing

Click here for more info on Free Park Day

Get out there and make some memories!

Stay in the Loop!