Join me for a hike to get some exercise and view the spring wildflowers at a hidden gem of a park, the Cannon River Wilderness Area. It is located between Northfield and Faribault off Hwy 3. The parking lot is located here: N44 22.198, W93 13.880 Parking is free.
This park has fairly low attendance, but extremely high value in natural habitat with the Cannon River flowing through it. The spring wildfowers are amazing here and if we time it right, the forest floor will be covered with blooming spring beauty flowers.
We will hike at a moderate pace and aim to do 4.3 miles in two hours. The first half mile is where the most diverse wildflowers are, and is a fairly strenuous hike along a bluff, so wear sturdy shoes and maybe use hiking poles if you want. The rest of the hike is mostly flat with some muddy and wet spots.
Optional: After our hike we will visit the Ole Store, or other location in Northfield for coffee or brunch.
Meet at the parking lot at 10:00 a.m.
- Non-Rover members should sign online liability waiver below.
- New Rover members welcome.
- There are spots with mud and up to 2 inches of water.
- Bring any water or snacks you might want to have.
- Bring camera and binoculars. We will listen and look for birds, too.
- I plan to lead a birding hike here in May.
Please email me if you plan on attending so I can contact you if any trip details change. Also email me if you have any questions.