Local Lover: Asha Shoffner

Asha Shoffner

Educator, adventurer, Auntie and founder of Fiwygin Outdoors and BIPOC Outdoors Twin Cities. Ashamarie.com

I am drawn to water and we have a lot of it here in Saint Paul. Having 17 miles of the Mississippi River flowing through our city is one of its greatest assets.

“There are so many ways to interact with the river including canoeing, fishing, painting, exploring and bike riding,” says Asha. “I find it a privilege to share the outdoors with family and friends.”

Asha’s favorite outdoor places:

• The best place to canoe is to put in at Hidden Falls and take out at Harriet Island

• Fishing is great at Hidden Falls. If you’re fishing with kids or someone who has limited mobility, try Como, Phalen or Loeb Lakes

• Visit Bdote, at the confluence of the Minnesota and Mississippi rivers. This is the birthplace of the Dakota people. Take the Minnesota Humanities Center Bdote Field Trip to learn about this sacred place.

• Bike along Summit Avenue or take the Bruce Vento trail through Swede Hollow Park.

• Hike, bird or enjoy a bonfire at Crosby Farm Regional Park