-
Custom Order Now
- Shop Now
After plenty of cold weather throughout the United States over the past nine to ten weeks, winter is finally beginning to subside. In its place will sit spring which delivers warmer temperatures, nicer sky conditions, and soul-enlightening fresh air. With weather like this, it makes sense for many of you to enjoy the outdoors. One way you can do so is by embarking on a hike across a designated trail. Luckily, Rochester, Minnesota, is home to plenty of them. Here are four we think you’re going to love.
Quarry Hill Nature Center
Located directly in Rochester, Quarry Hill Nature Center is home to eight different hiking trails, all with various terrains and scenery. Along each path, you’ll find signs with descriptions that give you a glimpse at the history of the park. You’ll also find amazing views such as downtown Rochester, the oak savanna, and the incredible wildlife in the surrounding area. And with so many trails to explore, Quarry Hill Nature Center is a sure crowd-pleaser.
Douglas Trail
If you’re looking to enjoy a nice stroll and not necessarily a hike, Douglas Trail is the perfect option. It’s a 12.5-mile paved trail that’s perfect for families with strollers, bicyclists, and runners. You’ll enjoy rural scenery with a mix of forest, rolling fields, pastures, and more. It stretches from northwestern Rochester to Pine Island and travels through Douglas, hence the name. A special secondary trail allows for horseback riding throughout the year and snowmobiling in the winter. Overall, Douglas Trail is perfect for versatile hikers who like to switch things up every now and then.
Forestville State Park
At Forestville State Park, enjoy the trickling of water flowing down a stream as you take a journey along its walking and hiking trails. Bask in the beauty of Mother Nature as you fill your senses with images of wonder and amazement and the scent of fresh, spring air.
Located in Preston, the park offers a traditional landscape filled with trees, vegetation, and wildlife. You know, everything you come to expect from a placed called “Forestville.” If you aren’t in the mood for hiking, there are various tours you can embark on to discover the rest of the park. But for those in the mood for taking a stroll or hike through nature, this is the perfect place to do so.
Whitewater State Park
At Whitewater State Park, you’ll enjoy a bit of a twist on the traditional hiking trail. Here, there are multiple trails to explore. There’s the Trout Run Creek trail that provides an easy stroll through a local wooded valley; Meadow Trail that’s perfect for hiking hobbyists which navigates you along the middle branch of the Whitewater River; and a combination of a few different paths all ranging in difficulty that take you from the bottomland, along the river, through the bluffs, and a perch overlooking the valley.
Whether you’re you’re a skilled hiker or just a beginner, Whitewater State Park will give you an experience you’ve never had before.
Overall, embarking on any of these hikes will guarantee a wonderful day outside in the warm, spring weather. We hope you enjoy yourself this season.
Image by Ann Larie Valentine is licensed under CC-BY-SA 2.0
Connect with us
