 Crosby Fire Update 🔥
Trails reopened with fire at 95% containment.
On Oct. 8, a wildfire started by lightning began spreading within a remote area of George H. Crosby Manitou State Park. The fire led to temporary closures of trails within the park.
As of today, Oct. 16, all sections of the Superior Hiking Trail impacted by the fire have been reopened.
Out of an abundance of caution, hikers must stay on the trail. While the fire is 95% contained, crews are still working in the area. Many nearby trees are fire-weakened, which poses a falling danger. You may notice ashes from the fire that burned up to and across the trail, and may see or smell smoke in the area. This is not a cause for alarm, so there is no need to call 911. The fire is being monitored daily by firefighting crews.
As a reminder, drones are not permitted near wildfire areas. Firefighting aircraft must be grounded when drones are detected, causing delays in containing the fire. Your cooperation is much appreciated!
For additional Crosby fire updates, visit the Minnesota Incident Command Systems website.
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 Climb, Paddle, and Play at Sibley State Park
Sweeping views and shimmering lakes alive with color.
 📷: Mount Tom Overlook, 9/21/23
For a scenery sample that encompasses all things Minnesota, consider a fall visit to Sibley State Park in Kandiyohi County. Lakes, forests, farmland, and prairies with windswept tall grass make up this classic Minnesota landscape, established as a state park in 1919.
But Sibley State Park invites more than sightseeing. How about sight climbing? That’s right, the park is home to Mount Tom, a glacial moraine 200 feet above Lake Andrew, the park’s signature lake.
If you have children with energy to burn, challenge them to climb the mountain to the observation tower! Fall is a great season to conquer the Mount Tom Trail (also known as the Hiking Club Trail) before the trail closes for the winter. It’s a moderate 3.3-mile loop over uneven pavement, and you can drive or walk to the Mount Tom parking lot.
Once at the summit, a lovely view unfolds over acres of forest. For a more leisurely stroll, take the 0.7-mile Pondview Trail through the forest habitat, past the prairie and through wetlands. That trail has minor hills but is considered stroller friendly.
The park’s new nature play area is another great spot for kids! The play area features a giant salamander along with climbing and crawling structures. Lake Andrew is visible from the play area, giving adults a chance to sit and enjoy the cool breeze and fall color.
Canoeing at the park offers a peaceful way to experience the brilliant golds and reds of autumn shorelines. Portaging is required across Henschien and Swan lakes. The park also features horse trails, and year-round naturalist-led interpretive programs which are listed on the park website. The visitor center is expected to reopen this fall following renovation. Before leaving home, always check the park website for visitor alerts.
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A Trail for Every Traveler 🚲
Glacial Lakes State Trail rolls through Minnesota's heartland.
 📷: Trail staff
Enjoy an enchanted adventure in central Minnesota on the Glacial Lakes State Trail this October.
Formed by ancient glaciers thousands of years ago, the rolling topography of central Minnesota gives visitors beautiful, expansive views of gentle hills, sparkling lakes, and colorful forests. This picturesque setting is a perfect backdrop for a fall outing with friends and family on the trail.
In Kandiyohi County, more than 20 miles of the Glacial Lakes State Trail follows the former Burlington Northern Railroad track. Between Willmar and Spicer, bike along the paved trail under a golden canopy of box elder, ash, elm, and willow trees, or hike the trail just past Spicer to view fall colors at Nest Lake Bridge. You’ll be surrounded by a beautiful mix of golden foliage this season. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the expansive views along the trail. Convenient parking and picnic areas are available in Willmar, Spicer, and New London along the trail.
Horseback riders will also find fall beauty along the Glacial Lakes State Trail. Ride the mowed, parallel grass treadway between Willmar and New London. Enjoy the easy terrain and scenic views of tree stands and lakes on a sunny afternoon. You’ll find longer parking spots for horse trailers at the Willmar trailhead near the Civic Center—and don’t forget to bring your Horse Pass with you.
For those visiting Sibley State Park, the Glacial Lakes State Trail offers an easy way to extend your adventure beyond the park’s borders. Start your day at the interpretive center on a paved trail that winds along the shores of Lake Andrew. You'll transition seamlessly onto the Glacial Lakes State Trail extension as it rolls through prairie and hillsides. At the park's border, riders can travel along County Roads 9 and 40 to connect with the New London section of the Glacial Lakes State Trail.
The Glacial Lakes State Trail is a beautiful place to experience fall colors this season. Spend an afternoon under the golden leaves of ash and elm trees and enjoy the peacefulness of nature near the sparkling lakes that dot the landscape. It’s a truly magical place to experience the season.
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