Gear Review: “Polar Mitts” Mittens
We just came through a major cold snap here in Minnesota (actually, in most of the country). It’s finally back above zero, but I think we had 10 days straight …
Snowshoeing in Elm Creek Park Reserve
Maple Grove, Champlin, Dayton/Hennepin County • No vehicle fee While snowshoeing is possible in most of Elm Creek Park Reserve’s 4,900 acres, there are 7 miles of designated snowshoe trails …
North Star Ski Touring Club: Cross Country Skiing and More
North Star Ski Touring Club is a members-based nonprofit organization that’s mission is to “enjoy and promote the development of cross country skiing.” This includes dozens of ski trips throughout …
Hiking the Snowshoe Trails at Afton State Park
One of the things I’ve discovered since I started to snowshoe two winters ago is this: the best hiking trails make the best snowshoe trails! This is definitely true at …
11 Gift Ideas for Outdoor Lovers (Kids, Too!)
’Tis the season, and we’re all looking for fun gift ideas for our outdoor-loving family and friends. Here’s our list of 11 great gifts for $50 or under… 1. Living …
Biking in Crosby Farm Regional Park
St. Paul/Ramsey County • No vehicle fee You have a couple good options for biking in Crosby Farm Regional Park. You can park on either end of the park and …
St. Croix Crossing Loop Trail: Hike It or Bike It
Stillwater/Washington County • Free parking either in Stillwater or Wisconsin The St. Croix Crossing Loop Trail—newly completed this spring for foot and bike traffic only—is a wonderful partnership between Minnesota …
Twin Cities Kayaking Rentals and Tours
John Schulte, owner of Twin Cities Kayaking, has a unique approach to renting kayaks. Instead of asking you to go to him, he brings his kayaks to you. John has …
Top 10 Reasons the Outdoors Beats the Gym
The Outdoors outperforms a gym in so many ways. And I’ll freely admit, I’m biased. I strongly dislike exercising inside. I always have. And I’m not against gyms. I know …
Paddleboard at Bryant Lake Regional Park
Eden Prairie/Hennepin County • No vehicle permit needed • On-site rentals There’s plenty of paddling to be had at Bryant Lake Regional Park, with kayak, canoe and SUP rentals on-site …