The Traveler - Fall Fun at Mille Lacs Kathio State Park
Minnesota State Parks and Trails The Traveler November 2014
Mille Lacs Kathio State Park This park in Onamia, about 100 miles north of the Twin Cities, is a National Historic Landmark, with a hefty calendar of nature- and history-themed programs. An extensive trail system criss-crosses through the park, and you can climb a 100-foot fire tower for a stunning aerial view. Other park highlights include access to the Rum River State Water Trail and excellent wildlife viewing.
Stroll through the park on your computer with this beautiful virtual tour.
The List - Cross-country Skiing Miles of cross-country ski trails meander through dozens of Minnesota state parks. Plan your snowy winter fun with this guide to cross-country ski trails. There's family-friendly candlelight events where short, easy trails are lit with lanterns or luminaries. Plus, many parks have skis to rent for a steal of a deal at $10. Be sure to get a ski pass for any skiers age 16 or older.
Game Time - Guess What?! Put your nature detective skills to work. This game is perfect for two people and can be played around the campfire, in a tent, at the picnic table, or even along the trail!
Choose a small object from around your campsite. Be sure the other player doesn't see what it is!
Sit with your back against the back of the other player.
Take turns asking each other yes or no questions about the object.
The first person to guess the other person's object wins!
Traveler Tip - History in the Park Step back in time - way back - to over 3,500 years ago. Mille Lacs Kathio State Park is home to the Petaga Point archaeological site. Copper spear points over 3,500-years old, knives and other utensils have been found here. Also uncovered were artifacts related to a village from the 1600s and a Depression-era farmstead. Stop by the Interpretive Center or catch a naturalist program for a peek into the park's past.
November Events - Post-Thanksgiving Hikes Forget shopping this upcoming holiday weekend and head outside instead! Enjoying a walk at a Minnesota state park can be cheaper and much less crowded than visiting the malls, you'll get a healthy dose of vitamin D as you walk off your turkey dinner and, best of all, there are no mosquitoes! Now that the leaves have fallen from the trees, it's easier to spot the deer and other wildlife.
A few tips for planning a post-Thanksgiving day hike:
Wear comfortable shoes.
Dress in layers in case of sudden changes in weather.
Pick up a trail map at the park office (or print one from the websitebefore you leave).
Tuck a water bottle and healthy snacks in your pocket before heading out.
There's a Minnesota state park or trail within 30 minutes of almost every spot in the state. And with over 1,000 miles of hiking trails through the state's hardwoods, prairies and pinelands there are many opportunities to keep your feet moving!
