GOING FOR A HIKE

Minnesota state parks big and small can be a destination during the summer

Story and PhotoS by rocky hulne

There is nothing like a little bit of sunlight and a walk through the woods to shake away the COVID-19 blues.

When it comes to a temporary escape from a world turned upside down, southeast Minnesota has it covered with a variety of state parks that have remained open this summer. There are at least five state parks within two hours of Austin and all of them would provide a day trip that includes a place to picnic, hike and bask in the wonder of nature.

Gretchen Miller, who is the District 8 supervisor in the Division of Parks and Trails for Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, said that there are plenty of options for Minnesotans to get out and enjoy the parks, as long as they maintain social distancing protocol.

“This is a great opportunity to reconnect or to first explore a state park if you haven’t done it,” Miller said. “I wish more people knew the amazing resources we have in our own backyard. There are some amazing opportunities to hike.”

Whitewater State Park, which is located near Saint Charles, has been immensely popular this spring as the park has drawn about three times the average of visitors for this time of year. Whitewater offers a variety of trails that cut through and around a hilly area, offering a majestic view of the Whitewater River from above.

Beaver Creek Valley State Park, which is near Caledonia, offers a unique experience for the visitor as it features a crystal clear trout stream that runs through a scenic valley. The park is covered in trees and it is home to a wide variety of migrating birds.

There are also options for nature that are much closer to Austin. Lake Louise in LeRoy offers a chance to get away from the noise and find a bit of nature in a kid friendly environment, Myre Big Island offers a nice view of the wetlands and the Shooting Star Trail gives anyone a chance to get out on a bike ride and see the countryside.

“The best thing the southeast has going for it is the bluff lands and the amazing topography,” Miller said. “Those rolling bluffs (by Winona) are amazing. To somebody that’s grown up here, it’s an unappreciated resource.”

State parks have adapted to changing times as park permits can be bought online or by registering through envelopes at the park. The parks have only been open during the day time and many signs encouraging social distancing have been placed on the trails.

“We have a plethora of trails, from paved to gravel,” Miller said. “We’re looking for people to stay close to home and maintain six feet of distance.”

In 2019, Gooseberry Falls was the most visited state park in Minnesota with 756,704 visitors but that number is likely to be exceeded this summer with the popularity of parks. Miller said that it has been tough to keep the parks going as the staff has been reduced to a third of its normal level.

“There’s a lot of work that needs to get done and try not to burn out our staff,” she said.

For those who don’t want to make a trip out of town, the Hormel Nature Center, which features a three-story tower, and the trails that run through Austin also provide relief for those who are looking to get outside and get moving.

Parks near Austin

Myre Big Island, 19499 780th Avenue Albert Lea, MN

With trails around wetl lowlands and a maple/basswood forest, the park has something for all visitors.

Lake Louise, 123857 766th Avenue LeRoy, MN

With a nice mix of lake and wooded trails, the park also offers an option for horseback riders to get out and explore.

Forestville/Mystery Cave 21071 County 118 Preston, MN. Besides the wonders of Mystery Cave, the park also includes a restored 1800s village and a variety of trout streams.

Whitewater Park 19041 Highway 74 Altura, MN

Perhaps the jewel of southeast Minnesota, the park offers plenty of hiking, a swimming beach and plenty of wildlife.

Great River Bluffs 43605 Kipp Drive, Winona MN

With bluff trails overlooking the Mississippi River, the park offers a variety of views and lots of wildlife.