While Kenmare is known more for its hunting than hiking, there are some trails in and around the Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge that are worth lacing up your hiking boots for. One of those is five miles south of Kenmare, just off the Scenic Lake Road, by Munch’s Coulee.

The hiking trail is designated as a National Recreation Trail, an honor given to existing trails that have been nominated and meet the requirements for connecting people to local resources and improving their quality of life. But this isn’t the only thing that makes Munch’s Coulee Hiking Trail special.

The trail itself is just over one-mile in length, but don’t think that means this is an easy walk in the park! A portion of this trail is quite steep, putting those hiking boots to the test! The first quarter-mile of the trail, however, is paved, level, and wheelchair accessible, with the remaining mile or so consisting of mowed grass with a few of those steep slopes! If you are up for the challenge, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Lower Des Lacs Lake. The upland portion of the trail offers one of the best places on the refuge to view native wildflowers and grasses.

Regardless of how much of this trail you chose to explore, you are sure to be treated to some lovely scenery, and, of course, plenty of birdwatching opportunities. You may even cross paths with a turtle!