A Nature Lover’s Paradise

PAUL M THIEDE FIRE TOWER PARK, PEQUOT LAKES

Photo By BlazeAir

BRAINERD

Northland Arboretum: Nearly 12 miles of trails for hiking and cross-country skiing. Snowshoeing trails are available, too. Trails accommodate all ages and skill levels and are some of the best trails in Minnesota—within the Brainerd city limits. Crow Wing State Park: The Crow Wing State Park also has over 18 miles of hiking trails within the park some along the banks of the Mississippi River. Step back in time seeing the history of an epic Ojibwe and Dakota battle. Walk the boardwalk into the settlement of Old Crow Wing. Camping is available in the park. A new paved trail connects to the Paul Bunyan Trail for easy access for hikers, cyclists, and snowmobilers.

CROSSLAKE

Crosslake Community Center: Over 13 miles of trails for hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. There’s an outdoor skating rink, sledding hill, 9-hole disc golf course, and tennis courts. Equipment is available to rent. Inside, there’s a gym and weight room. Open 7 days a week. Day passes and memberships available.

Rollie Johnson Natural and Recreational Area:

A series of three islands located within the Upper Whitefish Lake with hiking trails, swimming beach, and 11 primitive campsites available on a first come, first served basis.

NISSWA

Fritz Loven State Park: A beautiful 80-acre park with a playground, picnic shelters, hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing trails. Come see this beautiful nature sanctuary with wildlife, towering pines, and a stony brook. Go West on County Road 77 (off Hwy. 371 North), take a right on County Road 78, and then right on Ridge Rd. Nisswa Lake Park: On the shores of Gull Lake, this park is perfect access for boaters looking to reach downtown Nisswa. You’ll find docks with boat slips, walking loop, picnic areas with tables, BBQ pits, and a pavilion. Make the quick walk under the 371 bridge into downtown Nisswa for dining and shopping. Paul Bunyan Trail: Nisswa is located along the 120mile Paul Bunyan Trail offering hikers and cyclists a place to stop for shopping and dining.

NORTHLAND ARBORETUM (218)454-8773 www.northlandarb.org

500 acres of stunning nature reserve hosting a year-round 12-mile trail system, educational programming, and beautiful backdrops for weddings and events. Enjoy our beautiful groomed and lit cross-country and snowshoe trails. Snowshoe rentals available.

OUTDOOR & GUN SHOW (218)534-2936 www.deerwoodoutdoorshow.org March 5-6, 2022 | Deerwood, MN

An outdoor-focused two-day event with something for every “Up-North” enthusiast. Vendors and activities for all! Deerwood Outdoor & Gun Show is supported by local business sponsors, vendors and as well as community and outdoor organizations. Proceeds benefit Deerwood and surrounding communities.

PEQUOT LAKES AREA

Mayo Lake Nature Preserve: This 67-acre nature preserve is located on the southern portion of Mayo Lake in Pequot Lakes. The preserve is surrounded by diverse trees, plus picnic tables, recreational trails, and lookouts to Mayo Lake. Paul M Thiede Fire Tower Park: The historic fire tower and park is a must see when in the Pequot Lakes Area. The tower sits 100 feet high and offers panoramic 20-mile view. Hike the trails, check out the interpretive signs along the trails, and have a picnic lunch at the pavilion.