New catalog highlights Minnesota state parks and trails

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New catalog highlights hundreds of ways to enjoy Minnesota state parks and trails this spring and summer
(Released April 8, 2010)


From exploring North Shore history during a guided bike ride on the newest stretch of the Gitchi-Gami State Trail to enjoying a variety of open-air concerts in scenic settings, anyone looking for affordable fun will find plenty of options from which to choose at Minnesota state parks and trails this spring and summer.

The latest edition of the Programs & Special Events catalog lists more than 300 things to do now through the end of August, most of which are free, except for the vehicle permit needed to enter state parks. Permits are $5 for a one-day permit or $25 for a year-round permit.

The catalog also features a four-page overview of what’s new in 2010. For example, loaner fishing equipment can now be checked out for free at more than 30 parks, and Kids Discovery Kits (including activities, stories and tips to help ensure that a child’s early outdoor experiences will be fun and memorable) can be checked out for free at 20 parks.

In addition, the new catalog features a Bicycling Guide with:

A map showing where to find paved state trails, most of which are located on former railroad grades and provide level and easy routes for riders of all ability levels.
A list of the Minnesota state parks with mountain bike or paved bicycle trails, and how many miles of each they have.
A calendar of bicycling events taking place at Minnesota state parks and trails in 2010.
To help with trip planning, the catalog includes information on where to find camper cabins ($45-$50 per night) and other lodging (starting at $95 per night).

The Programs & Special Events catalog is available at Minnesota state parks and from the DNR Information Center, info.dnr@state.mn.us, or 651-296-6157 or toll-free 888-646-6367.

It is also available at travel information centers, at Ramsey County libraries, and at Twin Cities outdoor recreation retail locations, including REI stores, Hoigaard’s, Joe’s Sporting Goods, Midwest Mountaineering and the Cabela’s store in Rogers.

Programs and special events, including hundreds of listings not printed in the catalog, are also posted online. Free trail maps showing where to find parking, restrooms and picnic areas along state trails can be downloaded from www.mndnr.gov/state_trails or requested from the DNR Information Center.