A Guide to Perham's Parks and Trails

Perham punches well above its weight when it comes to parks and outdoor recreation. For a town of 3,500, having 12 parks and over 27 miles of trails is remarkable. Here’s your guide to all of them.

Top Parks for Families

Arvig Park

The crown jewel of Perham’s park system. Arvig Park has something for everyone: softball and soccer fields, volleyball and pickleball courts, a playground, disc golf course, and access to bike paths. It’s where the community gathers for summer leagues and weekend barbecues.

NP Park (North Park)

Home to the Perham Farmers’ Market during the summer months. NP Park has a playground, picnic shelters, and open green space. It’s centrally located and walkable from downtown.

Turtle Race Park

Yes, turtle races are a real thing in Perham. This park along the shore hosts the famous summer turtle races that draw families from across the region. Even when the turtles aren’t racing, it’s a beautiful spot to sit by the water.

Best Trails

Heart of the Lakes Trail

This is the big one. The Heart of the Lakes Trail is a paved pedestrian and bike path that connects Perham to Pelican Rapids and eventually to Maplewood State Park. It’s flat, scenic, and perfect for runners, bikers, and families with strollers.

Distance: 27+ miles (full trail)
Surface: Paved
Best for: Biking, running, walking

Operation Trailhead

A newer addition to Perham’s trail network, Operation Trailhead provides access to walking paths near the east side of town. It connects to the larger trail system and has parking.

Seasonal Tips

• Spring: Trails can be muddy through April. Stick to paved sections until things dry out.
• Summer: Bring water and sunscreen — shade is limited on some trail sections. The farmers’ market at NP Park runs Saturday mornings.
• Fall: Peak leaf color is typically early to mid-October. The trail from Perham toward Maplewood State Park is stunning.
• Winter: Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular on the unplowed trail sections. Snowmobile trails also connect through the area.

Park Amenities at a Glance

• Playgrounds: Arvig Park, NP Park, Library Park
• Sports fields: Arvig Park (softball, soccer, volleyball, pickleball)
• Disc golf: Arvig Park
• Boat access: Little Pine Lake Park, Paul Miller Park
• Picnic shelters: Most parks (reservable through the city)
• Restrooms: Arvig Park, Little Pine Lake Park

---

Know a trail or park detail we’re missing? Let us know.