Hiking, Biking, and Leisurely Strolls in Minnesota

in travel •  7 years ago 

On our travels, we have found a few points of interest for those looking for a place to walk. These routes are far gentler than most of those in Sibley State Park, so anyone should be able to enjoy them.

The Glacial Lakes Trail

This is a former railroad route converted to a paved biking and hiking trail with many scenic views of the forests, fields, and lakes of central Minnesota. I used this trail extensively in my youth when I lived in the area for a few years. I especially like the section near Nest Lake, where I took the photos below near the old railroad bridge, and the section between Hawick and Paynesville. The stairs shown in one of the photos below descend from the trail to a secluded picnic area.

20170623_095737.jpg

20170623_100049.jpg

20170623_095955.jpg

MN DNR web page

Heritage Park

Surrounding the Stearns History Museum you can find Heritage Park, a large space including flower gardens and a preserved section of woodlands in the heart of St. Cloud, Minnesota. I was in town too late to explore the museum itself, but my general advice to visit local museums stands if the opportunity presents itself. We just took a stroll through the woods and looked at an outdoor cabin exhibit along its edge when we were there.

20170623_155921.jpg

20170623_160118.jpg

20170623_160158.jpg

20170623_160357.jpg

20170623_161955.jpg

Cambridge City Park and Spirit River Nature Area

Cambridge, Minnesota boasts a very nice park just a block South of State Highway 95. Not only are there paved and unpaved trails, but also disc golf and playground areas for children. This would be the ideal family stop to let restless kids blow off some steam after a long car ride! The views of the river are great, and the rolling hills covered with trees are a bit more strenuous than the previous parks without being overkill. The sign in the first image offered endless amusement as an added bonus. Only in Minnesota!

20170625_105508.jpg

20170625_105720.jpg

20170625_110216.jpg

20170625_110906.jpg

20170625_111225.jpg

City of Cambridge parks website

Duluth Rose Garden and Leif Erikson Park

The Duluth Rose Garden lies along Interstate Highway 35 just to the north of Leif Erikson Park. Many different cultivars of many different flowers are on display here courtesy of The Lake Superior Rose Society. There are paved trails throughout these parks, and many scenic views of the city and Lake Superior. The Aerial Lift Bridge is visible in the background of the first image below.

20170625_155647.jpg

20170625_155316.jpg

20170625_163142.jpg

Authors get paid when people like you upvote their post.
If you enjoyed what you read here, create your account today and start earning FREE STEEM!
Sort Order:  

Nice post. Those cabins look super cute and cosy. I've followed you.

Having seen a number of similar cabins in museum or pioneer town exhibits, I have to warn you they are actually usually just dark and cramped.

Seems like like a very peaceful and beautiful hiking trail. Thanks for sharing!

Beautiful route. I love such green places.

Nice location and good photos.