PARKS EVERY SEASON By Amy Barrett Minnesota has an abundance of outstanding national, state and regional parks that off er scenic escapes throughout the year. From the wide open prairies in the southwest to the tall pines in the Northwoods, they off er a wonderful variety of fl ora and fauna. What you can see and do at each park will depend on when and where you go, because Minnesota has four distinct seasons and biomes, each with its own particular pleasures. Here are just a few of the many options for outdoor fun. A PARK FOR SPRING MINNEOPA STATE PARK HAS REALLY BIG THINGS TO SEE Biking, bison and a beautiful “double” waterfall are the main reasons to visit Minneopa State Park , just west of Mankato in southern Minnesota. The word minneopa is derived from the Dakota language and is interpreted to mean “water falling twice.” The name fi ts because the upper falls drop about 10 feet, and the lower falls plummet another 40. Both falls are just a short walk from the parking area. This park is popular with bicyclists because it connects to 50 miles of paved trails–including the Red Jacket Trail , the Sakatah Singing Hills State Trail and the Minnesota River Trail –with lots of great spots along the way to stop for a bite and a cold beverage. Minneopa State Park is also one of two Minnesota state parks with a resident bison herd (the other is Blue Mounds State Park in the southwestern corner of the state). Look for the bison as you drive through a 331-acre grassland and tune in to 1610 AM on your radio to learn more about the park’s eff orts to preserve these wild animals, millions of which roamed the North American plains before they were hunted to near extinction. Starting in April, you might be lucky enough to see some light brown newborns among the enormous dark brown adults. Minneopa State Park, photo by Jim Henderson Minneopa State Park Bison herd at Minneopa State Park 16 | EXPLORE MINNESOTA .COM
Explore Minnesota Travel Guide 2022 Explore Minnesota Travel Guide: Page 16
