Fall in Minnesota brings crisp air, beautiful foliage, and that irresistible craving for cozy, seasonal flavors. Whether you're a long-haul trucker making your way down I-35, a family on a road trip, or a local looking for the perfect autumn snack, Trail's Travel Center in Albert Lea has become the go-to destination for fall treats that'll make your taste buds celebrate the season.
Located right off I-35 at Exit 11, Trail's Travel Center isn't your average truck stop. We've been recognized as one of the coolest rest stops in the world, and our commitment to quality extends far beyond fuel and tires. This fall, we're serving up an incredible selection of seasonal treats that capture everything wonderful about autumn in the Midwest.
Pumpkin Fudge: Creamy, Dreamy Fall Perfection
Nothing says fall quite like pumpkin, and our pumpkin fudge takes this beloved seasonal flavor to new heights. Rich, creamy, and perfectly spiced with hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, this isn't your ordinary fudge. Each bite delivers that warm, comforting taste of autumn that pairs perfectly with a hot beverage on a cool Minnesota morning.
What makes our pumpkin fudge special is the quality. Made with real pumpkin and premium ingredients, it strikes the perfect balance between sweet and spiced. The texture is smooth and melts in your mouth, while the pumpkin flavor shines through without being overwhelming. It's the kind of treat that makes you want to stock up—perfect for sharing with family, bringing to the office, or keeping all to yourself as a special indulgence during your travels.
Whether you're grabbing a piece to enjoy with your coffee or picking up a box as a gift, our pumpkin fudge is one fall treat you won't want to miss. It's available for a limited time, so stop by while supplies last.
Fresh Roasted Nuts: The Perfect Crunchy Companion
There's something incredibly satisfying about the aroma of fresh roasted nuts, and at Trail's Travel Center, we're proud to offer premium roasted pecans, cashews, and almonds that are perfect for fall snacking.
Roasted Pecans: These buttery, rich nuts are a fall favorite. Our fresh roasted pecans have that perfect crunch and natural sweetness that makes them absolutely addictive. Pecans are also packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making them a satisfying snack that keeps you energized during long drives.
Roasted Cashews: Creamy, slightly sweet, and utterly delicious, our roasted cashews are a crowd-pleaser. These heart-shaped nuts offer a smooth texture and mild flavor that makes them easy to snack on by the handful. They're also an excellent source of minerals like copper and magnesium.
Roasted Almonds: For those who love a classic, our roasted almonds deliver that satisfying crunch and slightly sweet, nutty flavor. Almonds are nutritional powerhouses, loaded with vitamin E, healthy fats, and protein—making them one of the smartest snack choices you can make.
What sets our roasted nuts apart is their freshness. We ensure that every batch is perfectly roasted to bring out maximum flavor while maintaining that ideal crunch. These aren't stale, over-salted gas station nuts—these are premium quality nuts that taste as good as they are for you.
Grab a bag for the road, mix them with dried fruit for a homemade trail mix, or simply enjoy them as a healthy alternative to chips and candy. They're perfect for drivers who need nutritious fuel without the sugar crash.
Caribou Coffee Pumpkin Flavors: Fall in Every Sip
Minnesota knows coffee, and there's no better way to enjoy fall flavors than with Caribou Coffee's seasonal pumpkin offerings. At Trail's Travel Center, we're proud to serve Caribou Coffee—a beloved Minnesota brand that understands what great coffee should taste like.
This fall, warm up with Caribou's signature pumpkin-flavored beverages that capture the essence of the season in every sip. Whether you prefer a classic pumpkin latte with creamy steamed milk and espresso, or you're looking for something a little different, Caribou's pumpkin lineup has something for every coffee lover.
The beauty of Caribou's pumpkin flavors is that they're not overpoweringly sweet or artificial tasting. Instead, you get genuine pumpkin flavor complemented by warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a beverage that feels like a cozy sweater for your soul. It's the perfect companion for those early morning drives when the sun is just coming up and frost covers the fields.
Stop by our Caribou Coffee, whether you're traveling at dawn or midnight, you can get your pumpkin spice fix. Our friendly baristas will craft your drink exactly how you like it, and you can pair it with any of our other fall treats for the ultimate seasonal experience.
For truckers pulling all-nighters or families starting early to beat traffic, there's nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a warm cup of Caribou pumpkin coffee and knowing you're fueling up with quality before hitting the road.
Apple Pastries: Classic Fall Flavor Done Right
Apples and autumn go together like truckers and coffee, and our apple pastries celebrate this timeless fall pairing with flaky, buttery perfection. Whether you're stopping for breakfast or need an afternoon pick-me-up, these pastries deliver comfort and satisfaction in every bite.
Our apple pastries feature tender, spiced apple filling wrapped in golden, flaky pastry that's baked to perfection. The apples are seasoned with just the right amount of cinnamon and sugar, creating that classic apple pie flavor in a convenient, hand-held form. The pastry itself is buttery and light, providing the perfect vehicle for the sweet-tart apple filling.
What makes these pastries special is their versatility. They're substantial enough to serve as a quick breakfast alongside your morning coffee, yet they're also the perfect treat to grab for the road. Warm one up and enjoy it fresh, or save it for later—either way, you're getting a taste of fall that'll make your journey more enjoyable.
These aren't mass-produced, preservative-laden pastries. We take pride in offering quality baked goods that taste homemade. Each bite delivers real apple flavor and that satisfying flakiness that makes pastries so irresistible.
Pair an apple pastry with a hot Caribou coffee pumpkin latte, and you've got yourself the perfect fall breakfast or snack combo that'll fuel your body and satisfy your seasonal cravings.
SKOL Woodfire Grill & Tavern: Rotisserie Chicken Like You've Never Tasted
While pumpkin and apples might dominate fall flavor conversations, let's talk about something that'll truly satisfy your hunger: the flame-roasted rotisserie chicken at SKOL Woodfire Grill & Tavern, located right inside Trail's Travel Center.
This isn't your typical gas station food. SKOL is known throughout the region for its mouthwatering meats roasted on an open wood fire rotisserie, and the rotisserie chicken is an absolute standout. Cooked slowly over real flames, each chicken develops a beautifully crispy, golden skin while the meat inside stays incredibly juicy and tender.
The wood fire cooking method imparts a subtle smoky flavor that you simply can't replicate with conventional cooking methods. It's primitive and primal in the best possible way—real fire, real wood, real flavor. The result is chicken that's packed with taste, perfectly seasoned, and cooked to perfection.
What makes this fall treat is that while everyone else is focused on sweet seasonal snacks, sometimes what you really need is a substantial, satisfying meal. After hours on the road or a long day of work, sitting down to a plate of flame-roasted rotisserie chicken with signature sides is exactly what fall comfort food should be.
SKOL Woodfire Grill & Tavern offers counter service dining, so you can order quickly and get back on your way, or you can take your time and enjoy your meal in our comfortable dining area. The chicken is available all day, and it pairs perfectly with their selection of signature sides that change seasonally to incorporate fresh, fall ingredients.
For truckers looking for a real meal that'll stick to your ribs, families wanting something beyond typical fast food, or locals who know that SKOL's rotisserie chicken is the best-kept secret in Albert Lea, this is your fall must-try.
Why Trail's Travel Center Is Your Fall Food Destination
Trail's Travel Center has earned its reputation as one of the coolest rest stops in the world, and our commitment to quality food is a big reason why. We understand that food is fuel, but it's also one of life's simple pleasures—especially when you're traveling or working hard.
This fall, we've curated a selection of treats that capture the season's best flavors, from sweet indulgences like pumpkin fudge and apple pastries to savory satisfaction like SKOL's rotisserie chicken. Add in premium roasted nuts for healthy snacking and Caribou Coffee pumpkin drinks for that perfect beverage, and you've got everything you need for a delicious autumn.
What Sets Us Apart:
24/7 Access: We never close, so you can satisfy your fall cravings any time of day or night
Quality Ingredients: From fresh roasted nuts to real wood fire cooking, we don't cut corners
Variety: Whether you want something sweet, savory, healthy, or indulgent, we've got options
Convenient Location: Right off I-35 at Exit 11, making us an easy stop for travelers
More Than Food: While you're enjoying your fall treats, take advantage of our showers, laundry, and other amenities
We're not just a truck stop—we're a destination where quality meets convenience, and where fall flavors are celebrated properly.
Make Trail's Travel Center Part of Your Fall Tradition
Fall in Minnesota is short but glorious, and these seasonal treats won't be around forever. Whether you're a regular who stops by every time you're traveling through Albert Lea or you're discovering us for the first time, make Trail's Travel Center part of your autumn tradition this year.
Stock up on pumpkin fudge to share with coworkers or family. Grab a bag of fresh roasted nuts for healthy road snacking. Warm up with a Caribou pumpkin coffee during those chilly morning drives. Treat yourself to a flaky apple pastry with your breakfast. And when you need real food that satisfies, fuel up with SKOL's incredible flame-roasted rotisserie chicken.
Stop by Trail's Travel Center at 820 Happy Trails Lane in Albert Lea, right off I-35 at Exit 11. We're open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, because we know that hunger doesn't follow a schedule—and neither does the craving for delicious fall flavors.
This fall, make your travels tastier with the best seasonal treats at Trail's Travel Center.
Celebrate fall the right way—one delicious bite at a time.
