|
|
Click on the map for a complete fall color report from around the state.
Val Cervenka, Forest Health Program Coordinator and official MN DNR fall color predictor, anticipated the southeast corner of Minnesota would be the 'cherry on top' for this fall season, as this area wasn't as impacted by last summer's drought. She also gave a shout-out to the prairie. "Native asters and other wildflowers will stand out against the red sumac and golden grasses in the prairie. Hilly or rugged country commonly has the most hardwood species, so you’ll get the most variety and amount of fall color."
Late-season wildflowers are still providing a feast for the eye and the pollinators. The Driftless Area has much to offer with plenty of options around the Zumbro River, including paved and unpaved trails and fall color popping all around.
Scroll down for trip ideas and plan your outing!
 Fall camping at Fort Ridgely State Park. PHOTO: Joanne Svendsen, taken 10/9/21
|
|
|
If this email was forwarded to you, sign up so you too can follow the colors
Explore past issues.
|
|
 Maples along a trail at Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest. PHOTO: Kirk Handahl, taken 10/02/21
The Zumbro River State Water Trail has enough water flow to still be navigable in some sections. Water is likely cold already, so we recommend only experienced paddlers with wet or dry suits venture into the water.
Anyone can explore from shore!
The Douglas State Trail was developed on an abandoned railroad grade, and offers 12.5 generally level and accessible paved miles (20 km). Hike, bike or roll from northwest Rochester, Minn. to Pine Island, where the trail intersects the Zumbro River. Horseback riders can enjoy a natural surface treadway that parallels this route.
The southern segment of the Goodhue Pioneer State Trail will lead bikers and hikers north along the river, from Zumbrota, Minn. The northern segment of the state trail has four miles (6.4 km) of developed, paved trail between the Hay Creek Day-Use Area (*) and Red Wing, where it connects to city trails and the Cannon Valley Trail. Explore the state forest trails or spend the night at Kruger campground or Zumbro Bottoms horse campground.
Visitors who enjoy a more rugged experience should stop at Zumbro Falls Woods SNA (Scientific Natural Area). You won't find trails or facilities, but forest and riverine habitats protected in their natural, undisturbed condition. Look for the landmark of Wall Rock, a sheer cliff that towers 200 feet above the water at a bend in the river.
(*) Part of the Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest
|
|
 New England Aster is an important late-season food source for pollinators, blooming through October and even into November. PHOTO: Karen, taken 10/10/21
The prairies and meadows at Fort Ridgely State Park showcase a beautiful array of native grasses and blooming wildflowers during fall, like New England aster, goldenrod, coneflower, sunflower and big bluestem. Take the Hiking Club trail through woods and prairie to catch a glimpse of these fall colors, and stop at the overlooks for scenic views of the Minnesota River Valley.
This lake was a source of wild rice for Indigenous communities that first inhabited the area.
 Rice Lake glistening through the woods. PHOTO: Steve Schreiber, taken 10/10/21
Rice Lake State Park is a birdwatcher’s haven. The shallow waters and surrounding marshland of Rice Lake, headwaters to the south branch of the middle fork of the Zumbro River, attract a variety of songbirds and waterfowl, such as great blue herons (pictured below), egrets, blue jays and sandpipers.
Bird checklists for state parks.
Bring binoculars and a picnic, and enjoy the spectacular fall bird migration from the picnic area. The observation platform provides a great view of fall color along the lakeshore, including maple trees that flaunt vibrant yellows and oranges at sunset. Don’t forget to bring a pair of walking shoes so you can absorb all the beauty of this small park along the 2.4 mile (3.9 km) loop of the Hiking Club trail.
📷 Doug Easthouse
|
 Destination: Buffalo River State Park
Taken: 10/3/21
📷 & Quote: @JustBeyondParks
|
|
|
Share your favorite state park, trail and rec area autumnal pics and stories. Tag us on Instagram @mnstateparksandtrails and use #YourMNFallFavorites for a chance to be featured in the weekly Fall Color Update and our social channels.
|
|
|
|
Many Minnesota state parks, are holding managed hunts this fall to prevent overpopulation of deer. When too many deer are in one area, the native plants and animals are negatively affected.
When you visit during hunting season...
 Wear blaze orange or other brightly colored clothing, even if you will not be hunting.
Some state parks close during hunts. Others stay open to both hunters and non-hunters. Check the state park hunt web page before your visit.
Watch carefully for any hunt-related signage in the park, and follow it!
All state forests and wildlife management areas are open to hunting.
|
|
|
|
