 April 2025
 📷: Hayes Scriven, Split Rock Lighthouse State Park
Out of This World Adventures 🌠
This month, we’re looking up—way up! April’s Trailblazer is all about astrology, astronomy, and the magic that happens when the stars align with your next outdoor adventure. Whether you're exploring the park that matches your zodiac sign or learning about the annual Dark Sky Festival at Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park, we hope you'll be inspired to explore the universe above and the wonders below.
 Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park
Stargazers unite at the Dark Sky Festival.
 📷: Dwan Ryan, Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park
As the sun sets on Saturday, August 16, Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park will come alive with stargazing and exploration during the 5th Annual Dark Sky Festival, running from 12 p.m. to 10:45 p.m. Away from the glow of city lights, this park is one of Minnesota’s hidden gems for stargazing and one of the few places in southeast Minnesota where you can still see the Milky Way. Visitors will have the chance to view the bright sky from the perfect vantage point at the Dark Sky Festival, an event dedicated to exploring the beauty and science of the stars.
Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park is an ideal destination for night sky enthusiasts. Its remote location helps to block out light pollution, making night sky wonders—like meteor showers, planets, and distant galaxies—clearly visible.
During the festival, attendees can enjoy a variety of activities, including star gazing, telescope viewings, and educational programs led by park naturalists. Whether you're an amateur stargazer or expert astronomer, the festival provides a perfect opportunity to learn more about Minnesota’s dark skies.
Bring your redlight flashlight, lawn chair, and curiosity. Join Forestville/Mystery Cave for a night under the stars at the Dark Sky Festival!
✨ State Park Horoscopes
Let the cosmos guide your next trip into nature.
Looking to the stars for your next outdoor adventure? We’ve matched each astrological sign with a Minnesota state park or recreation area that captures your zodiac energy. Whether you’re a bold Aries or a dreamy Pisces, there's a park that vibes with your traits.
♈ Aries (March 21 - April 19)
Traits: Bold, energetic, competitive, courageous, adventurous, impulsive, confident
Your Aries spirit craves bold trails and big thrills—Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area matches your fire with rugged terrain, winding mountain bike paths, and heart-pumping adventure. Channel your fearless energy into exploring its red dirt trails and crystal-clear mine lakes—you were made for this.
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♉ Taurus (April 20 - May 20)
Traits: Reliable, patient, practical, determined, stubborn, grounded
Grounded and strong, Taurus calls for a connection to nature’s steady rhythm and Minneopa State Park delivers. Stroll past roaring waterfalls, watch the majestic bison roam the prairie, and soak in the earthy calm that speaks directly to your soul.
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♊ Gemini (May 21 - June 20)
Traits: Witty, curious, adaptable, communicative, lively, inconsistent, social
Curious and dual-natured, Gemini thrive in places that offer two sides of the same story. From the quiet prairie serenity of Split Rock Creek State Park to the dramatic cliffs and beacon of Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, your need for contrast and conversation finds the perfect match.
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♋ Cancer (June 21 - July 22)
Traits: Nurturing, intuitive, emotional, protective, sensitive, loyal, moody
As a Cancer, you’re drawn to places that feel deeply connected to water and nurture a quiet kind of strength—just like Big Bog State Recreation Area. This vast, sensitive ecosystem mirrors your depth and protectiveness.
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♌ Leo (July 23 - August 22)
Traits: Charismatic, passionate, confident, creative, generous, dramatic, attention-loving
Bold and full of pride, you were born to stand at the headwaters. Itasca State Park matches your Leo energy with its iconic status, grand old-growth pines, and the powerful beginnings of the mighty Mississippi—just like you, it’s where greatness begins.
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♍ Virgo (August 23 - September 22)
Traits: Detail-oriented, practical, analytical, intelligent, humble, hardworking
Fort Snelling State Park matches your Virgo work ethic—it’s one of the busiest parks in the state, constantly welcoming visitors with care and precision. Just like you, it runs smoothly behind the scenes, grounded, reliable, and always ready to serve.
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♎ Libra (September 23 - October 22)
Traits: Charming, diplomatic, romantic, social, indecisive, fair-minded, beauty-loving
Grand Portage State Park reflects your Libra spirit—it's all about balance, from its powerful waterfall to its peaceful forested trails. The only state park operated in partnership with a tribal nation, it also honors shared stewardship, aligning with your deep sense of diplomacy and harmony.
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♏ Scorpio (October 23 - November 21)
Traits: Intense, passionate, mysterious, resourceful, determined, loyal, secretive
Zippel Bay State Park and Garden Island State Recreation Area capture your Scorpio essence—mysterious, remote, and deeply magnetic. These far northern shores invite introspection and transformation, offering quiet beauty that only those willing to venture off the beaten path will fully discover.
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♐ Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21)
Traits: Adventurous, optimistic, independent, philosophical, restless, spontaneous, blunt
Interstate State Park matches your Sagittarian spirit—adventurous, bold, and always chasing the horizon. With dramatic cliffs, glacial potholes, and sprawling trails, it’s a playground for the wanderer in you who’s never content standing still.
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♑ Capricorn (December 22 - January 19)
Traits: Ambitious, disciplined, responsible, hardworking, practical, reserved, goal-oriented
Calm, disciplined, and quietly ambitious, Glendalough State Park reflects your Capricorn nature. With its peaceful prairies, non-motorized lake, and thoughtful layout, it’s a place that rewards planning, patience, and purposeful exploration.
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♒ Aquarius (January 20 - February 18)
Traits: Innovative, independent, intellectual, humanitarian, unconventional, quirky, visionary
Like Lake Shetek State Park, Aquarius is always looking for a better path ahead—driven by innovation and a deep sense of community. With its unique causeway trail to Loon Island and Wilderness Group Center, it’s a place where unconventional thinkers feel right at home.
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♓ Pisces (February 19 - March 20)
Traits: Dreamy, empathetic, artistic, intuitive, compassionate, escapist
Carley State Park flows right into your Pisces spirit with its gentle trout streams and serene woodlands. The soothing sound of water and blooming spring wildflowers create the kind of tranquil dreamscape that feeds your imagination and renews your soul.
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Look Up at Dark Skies...and Birds!
The nightlife of migration.
As you look up at the night sky, searching for stars and meteor showers, you might not realize that thousands of birds are flying high above, navigating the skies.
Minnesota’s skies come alive each spring with migrating birds traveling under the dark night sky. Native birds such as warblers, thrushes, and sparrows use the night sky to guide their journey, relying on the stars, moonlight, and even the Earth’s magnetic field.
Birds may be hard to spot, but on clear nights, you might see the silhouette of a bird crossing the moon or catch wing movements. Listen for “zeep” and “chip” sounds as flocks pass overhead.
Birds to watch for at night
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Common Nighthawk – A master of the night skies, the Nighthawk can be seen darting through the air at dusk, hunting insects. Watch for its long wings with distinctive white patches as it swoops and dives in open areas.
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Swainson’s Thrush – Known for its flutelike, upward-spiraling song, Swainson’s Thrush is a night migrant. Though hard to see, its soft “whit” calls can be heard overhead during migration.
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Black-billed Cuckoo – The Black-billed Cuckoo migrates at night and is easier to hear than see. Listen for its low, repetitive “coo-coo-coo” calls as it passes through wooded areas.
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The Lyrid Meteor Shower
Catch—sight of—a falling star.
 📷: Isaac Chan, Tettegouche State Park
Mark your calendar! The Lyrids, which are one of the oldest known meteor showers, will be active from April 16–25, and peak on April 22. In a clear sky you might see up to 18 meteors per hour. Best viewing time is during predawn hours, so be sure to make a camping reservation.
Escape the city lights and view the meteor shower from your favorite state park. Enjoy dark skies and bright stars from the comfort of a camper cabin, tent, or lodge. Don't wait, make your reservation today!
Hello Darkness, My Old Friend
The importance of the dark side of Earth.
Far from the lights of your city, you can experience amazing moments looking up at the wonders of the night sky while camping. It only takes a few seconds for your eyes to adjust and stars above to become as clear as the day.
Dark night skies are not just valuable to amateur astronomers and casual stargazers; Earth’s natural darkness is a vital part of the rhythm of our world. Many species rely on the absence of light and reoccurring light-and-dark cycles to navigate, nest, mate, hide from predators, or cue other behaviors. Indeed, almost half of the species on Earth are nocturnal, and many species, including owls, rodents, and cats, have developed keen hearing, smell, and vision to adapt to the absence of light. More than 80% of migrating bird species making their seasonal flights at night. Even plants use the length of days and nights to detect the changing of seasons, cueing winter dormancy or spring blooms.
Humans, too, need natural darkness for sound sleep and good health. Light changes in our environment regulate our bodies’ circadian rhythms and influences the natural production and suppression of melatonin and cortisol, which trigger sleepiness and alertness, respectively. Production of melatonin increases at night, causing sleep. Sleep is vital to a strong immune system, critical thinking, and emotional and physical wellbeing.
Dark night skies play a crucial ecological role, supporting the natural behaviors, rhythms and cycles of all life on earth. While human-caused light has transformed the way people live, it is also important to remember that wildlife depend on the natural light and dark cycles in order to survive—including humans!
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🌠 Tips for Viewing the Night Sky
How to make the most of your stargazing experience.
There’s a certain feeling of wonder you can get from looking up at the stars. Whether you’re catching a meteor shower, spotting planets, or capturing the Milky Way on camera, stargazing can be an unforgettable experience. Here are a few tips to help you get the best view.
🧤 Get cozy
Bring a sleeping bag or blanket with to stay warm. A hat, mittens, and warm jacket will also keep you insulated while your admiring the stars above. Don't forget a chair! Folding chairs are perfect for viewing the night sky at your campsite, beach, or picnic area.
Give your eyes at least 20–30 minutes to adapt to the darkness. If you’re using a headlamp, make sure it has a red-light option to preserve your night vision and avoid disturbing those around you. Red light is much less obtrusive than bright white light and won’t spoil the view for others.
🔭 Bring a Telescope or Binoculars
A telescope can reveal Saturn’s rings or Jupiter’s moons, but even binoculars can enhance your experience, making star clusters and distant galaxies easier to see.
📷 Capture the Night with Photography
You can use your smartphone, DSLR, or mirrorless camera with a wide-aperture lens. Set your camera on a tripod, use a long exposure (10-30 seconds), and increase the ISO to capture more light. Many smartphones now have a built-in Night Mode that automatically enhances low-light shots. When using your phone, remember to turn off flash and HDR—then tap the screen where the stars are and lock focus to keep them sharp.
Getting a star viewing app on your smartphone can be a great way to discover the sky and know what to look for once you're outside. In April’s skies, you can find bright Venus and the spring constellations Leo and Virgo.
With a little preparation, you’ll be ready for an inspiring night under the stars. Check out nighttime programs at a state park near you. Happy stargazing!
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