- Max Trip Size: 6 people
It’s late Winter and/or early Spring along the Minnesota River and the plan is to do about a 6.5 mile loop partly as a premature bird watching trek and mostly for the exercise. Expect to see and hear a cardinal, at least hear a White-breasted Nuthatch, and maybe a Bald Eagle soaring above the shore of the river (if my recent history repeats itself). Also expect a long fairly strenuous hike, over mud, packed snow and slush, with a few stream “hops”, and some deadfall to get around, all in roughly the first half of the hike, followed by a mostly paved second half, ranging from dry to slush to snow and a little ice. I’ll plan to keep the bird watching stops to a minimum—this is a long hike, preferably averaging 3.5 mph when not stopped—but still plan on bringing binoculars. Also recommended are water, sturdy shoes, and maybe cleats if they can easily be removed (for most of the paved trail).
Meet at the parking lot at the Old Cedar Avenue Bridge Trailhead, 9551 Old Cedar Ave South, Bloomington, MN 55425. We’ll be starting our hike toward the southwest (toward the 35W bridge) and finishing by crossing the Old Cedar Avenue Bridge itself.
Please email me if you’re planning to come. And if you’re not a Rover, please sign the release below. All sturdy dogs on a leash are welcome.