The location of our October 20 hike will be Nerstrand Big Woods State Park, located 15 minutes southeast of Northfield, Minnesota, and about one hour from the Twin Cities northern suburbs. Hike will be led Jon Christianson. The fall colors will be reaching their peak beauty to provide us with a spectacular day!

We will hike the two-mile Hiking Club Trail to Hidden Falls and tack on a couple additional loops for a total of approximately 4 to 5 miles. We will stop to enjoy the wildflowers, stunning views, and gorgeous scenery along the route. The trail is mostly flat but a few sections have lots of roots. Hiking poles are not necessary but may be helpful. We will walk the following trails: Hidden Falls-Beaver-White Oak-Maple-back to the Visitor Center. The total of these is a bit less than 4 miles. The good news is that there are several loop trails that could be used in addition to Maple (or instead of Maple) so that the last leg of the hike can be adjusted to yield a total length and time desired by the group! This is a moderate hike; all hiking paces and abilities are welcomed for this hike.

We will meet at the picnic tables near the Pavilion (across the street from the Visitor Center) at 9:20. It's about an hour drive from the Twin Cities; try to arrive by 9:20. You must have or purchase a Minnesota State Park parking sticker to enter the park. Day stickers are $7. We will arrange carpools from the Twin Cities so please indicate in the comments section of your registration if you wish to drive or ride in a carpool.

Lunch together after the hike will be at The Ole Store Restaurant in Northfield, a Nordic-inspired restaurant established in 1889. Charm galore!

Please sign up for this hike (required). Registrations will be accepted up to 24 hours before the hike.

Your completed form will be used to be sure everyone who signs up has arrived before the start of the hike. Newcomers are welcome!

—Bev Moe and Michael Luxenberg, UMRA Hiking Club co-leaders