Places to Get Your Exercise in Natural Surroundings in the Twin Cities

According to the recent Parade Magazine article “America by the Numbers,” Minnesota is ranked No. 1 in the nation for physical activity. (We are also in the top five for high school graduation rates, which is an interesting correlation!) Studies have also shown that exercising outside as much as possible can help you think more clearly, improve your memory, and boost mental health (www.realage.com).    And the best part about living here is how easy it is to enjoy these benefits. There are many places to take advantage of the restorative powers of nature, either close by or a quick drive down the road. 

On a lazy weekend morning, grab a coffee from your favorite place, lace up your walking shoes, and take a stroll through Battle Creek Park in south Maplewood.  The park has miles of paved trails, perfect for walking, jogging or biking. There are also dirt trails through the woods (cross-country ski trails), if you are feeling more adventurous. If you have a dog that could also use some exercise, or if you enjoy seeing other people’s dogs, take a walk through the off-leash dog area. The dirt trail loops around for a couple of miles, with lots of happy, smiling dogs (and people) to keep you company. You might also spot some urban wildlife in the quieter areas of the park, including herons, turtles and deer. Go to http://www.co.ramsey.mn.us/parks/parks/countyparks.htm for information on Battle Creek or the many other parks in the Ramsey County system. 

For a walk on the wilder side, take a short drive to the Minnesota Valley Wildlife Refuge, located minutes from Mall of America. A small part of the refuge can be seen when driving by the airport, but there’s much more to it than what can be seen from the freeway. The entire refuge consists of 14,000 acres, divided into eight Refuge Lands, which stretch from Fort Snelling to Belle Plaine. Many types of wildlife can be spotted in the various areas, such as blue herons, beavers and wild turkeys. In addition, because of its size and proximity to the Minnesota River, many varieties of birds can be spotted during the spring and fall migrations. The Bloomington Visitor Center is a good place to start, with helpful staff to give pointers on trails, hikes, and what to expect at different times of the year.  Check out http://www.fws.gov/midwest/minnesotavalley/index.html to get started. 

If you prefer to view your nature in a more civilized manner, there is a place for you as well!  The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, located in Chaska, is a treat for the senses, with something to see, hear and smell everywhere you turn. The Arboretum covers over 1,000 acres, and is filled with garden displays, native plants and tree and shrub collections, all beautifully maintained and landscaped. The displays change with the seasons, and showcase Minnesota’s incredibly versatile and diverse horticulture. There are special events throughout the year, such as a Mother’s Day brunch and Christmas holiday displays. Walk on a guided or self-guided tour (there 12 miles of hiking trails), or take a tram tour along the scenic 3-Mile Drive.   Admission is $9 for adults, kids 15 and under are free.