Join us as we venture to Zimmerman and Monticello to explore Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge, located about 55 miles north of the Cities, and Lake Maria State Park by snowshoe. Added bonus! Mike Sweet, a long-time birder, will help identify birds we see. We will meet in the morning to carpool or caravan, and plan to arrive at Sherburne midmorning. We’ll snowshoe (on and off trail) and then break for lunch and to warm up in nearby Monticello. After lunch, we’ll check out a nearby site where wintering Trumpeter Swans concentrate. (Read Beth Gauper’s story about them.)
If there is time, we’ll stop at nearby Lake Maria State Park (where snowshoeing is allowed anywhere except on groomed ski trails) before heading home later in the afternoon. Never used snowshoes? This would be a nice way to try it out. We can let you know where to rent them if you need to. Day trips are open to non-members! You are invited to join us! (Note: Cross-country skiing is also an option. Trails NOT groomed at Sherburne. 14 miles – some beginner, mostly intermediate – of trails at Lake Maria for traditional cross-country; 2 miles groomed for skate-skiing.) Estimated cost: Gas + lunch ($15?); State Park sticker, if necessary. Deposit: $0. Max trip size: Unlimited.
Stacey G.& Mike S. 
Trip report