The Afton Breakfast Hikes are turning into seasonal outings each spring, summer, and fall, so this is the spring 2015 edition. This time, we are going to increase our distance and difficulty. I called Afton to find the most challenging hike and I mapped a route of 9.5-10 miles that explores the trails on the steep bluffs in the north end of the park.
The longer hike means we need to start early, so here is the schedule:
8:30 a.m. – Meet for breakfast at the Sail Away Cafe (http://www.sailawaycafe.com/SailAway/Sail_Home.html) in Afton.
9:45 a.m. – Arrive at Afton State Park (http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/afton/index.html) at the VISITOR CENTER (not the park entrance gate) to meet up with hikers who skipped breakfast.
10:00 a.m. – Start hiking.
Post-hike – Optional post-hike swim at Afton Beach and optional ice cream/socializing at Selma’s Ice Cream Parlour (http://selmasparlour.com/) in Afton.
I don’t know how long the hike will take. Note that shorter loops are possible so you can call it quits early if needed. This activity is open to non-members. Friendly dogs are allowed. Supplies: Water, snack/lunch, decent hiking boots, $5 vehicle fee or annual pass if you’re driving into the park, breakfast/ice cream money, swim suit if you want to swim at the end of the hike at Afton Beach.