On Saturday, May 25 and Sunday, May 26, the NorthStar Trail Travelers will offer two walk events at Blue Mounds State Park. At the north end of the park (main entrance) on Saturday, registration will be at the Picnic Shelter, between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m., finish walking by 4 p.m. On Sunday, registration is at Eagle Rock Vista (south end) between 9 a.m. and noon, finish walking by 3 p.m.
The Saturday event will offer 11km distance. The 5km loop is on the Hiking Club Trail with a long, gentle slope, and mowed grass, partially along the edge of the bison range. The 6km grassy loop is also part of the Hiking Club Trail and half goes along the edge of the bison range and the other half along Upper Cliff Trail. Event award is a leather pin bison. A participant picnic of sloppy joes will be offered throughout the day for a suggested donation.
The Sunday event will offer 10km distance. One 5km uses the Hiking Club Trail and Bur Oak Trail. This portion is somewhat rocky with steep incline up to Cliffline Trail. For those with walking issues, substitute a portion of Hiking Club Trail up above. The second 5km trail is a lollipop loop (Western Loop Trail) from Eagle Rock and is a level and grassy trail. The event award is a leather pin featuring the Western Prairie Fringed Orchid, found in the park. A participant picnic of brats will be offered throughout the day for a suggested donation.
NorthStar Trail Travelers is a unique club in that it offers noncompetitive walking and snowshoe events primarily in Minnesota State Parks, trails, forests and recreation areas. NSTT has a formal partnership with the DNR State Parks and Trails to offer from four to 10 events in state parks each year. All events are open to the public and membership is not required to participate. NSTT is a chartered club with the American Volkssport Association (AVA), which is under the umbrella of the International Volkssports Verband (IVV).
Photo: NorthStar Trail Travelers