Flandrau report
Jessica Kraker
2024-08-01
DNR info
Flandrau State Park: “The Cottonwood River State Water Trail meanders gently through this southern park. The sand-bottom swimming pond, picnic area, campgrounds and group center attract many visitors every summer to this very popular state park. The terrain is diverse, offering views of wooded river bottoms, oxbow marshes and open grasslands. Hikers and cross-country skiers enjoy the flat trails on the bottom of the valley or more challenging routes on the oak-shaded bluffs. Visit historic stone buildings crafted by Works Progress Administration (WPA) crews. Vegetative features include goat prairies, small white lady’s slippers, and the floodplain forest.”
Visit August-01-2024
Experience
On our way into Minnesota, Lars and I stopped in Red Wing and hiked up to Memorial Park. I found a “back way” path in, but it was straight uphill climb (like 30-40% grade) for about a quarter of a mile. In retrospect, I don’t think it was a legit trail… but we made it!
Just a brief hike at night in Flandrau, then reading by headlamp. It is a very pleasant evening walk up the hill into town, with a nice little break from the campsite for Lars (he is a city dog, after all).
As part of our traditional celebration of his birthday, I took my godson for a hike, this year at Seven-Mile Creek Park. This trail system is in my top 5 all-time trails, at least for hiking with others. Beautifully maintained, very wide trails with gravel to keep the trail in its place. Extremely well-designed, and we found some cool nature along the way!
Goals
- Hiking: about 3.2 miles + 1.8 hilly miles in Red Wing Memorial Park + 4.2 miles at St. Peter Seven Mile Creek Park
- Reading: Documentation for package wELO
- Pictures: (none at Flandrau)
