Enhancing community engagement and outdoor activities
7/1/2024
As the summer season approaches, Rochester's park system is buzzing with exciting new developments aimed at enhancing community engagement and providing diverse outdoor activities.
At the heart of these improvements is the all-new Aquatics Center at Soldiers Field Park, which opened in June. This state-of-the-art facility promises to be a hub of fun and recreation, featuring a splash pad and wading pool with a multilevel play area, a lazy river, a slide tower with two body slides and one tube slide. It also features an activity pool with a basketball hoop, drop slide, aqua zip, climbing wall and lap lanes. These additions are designed to cater to a wide range of interests and age groups, making Soldiers Field Park a must-visit destination this summer.
In addition to the Aquatics Center, several other areas of Soldiers Field Park are undergoing significant upgrades. The park will soon boast an expanded accessible playground, new walking trails, lighted basketball courts, a nature play area, additional pavilions and improved restroom facilities. These enhancements are part of a broader initiative to make the park more inclusive and enjoyable for all visitors, regardless of their physical abilities.
Last fall, Cascade Lake Park also saw the completion of numerous exciting features, transforming it into a vibrant community space. The newly constructed amphitheater and stage are set to host a variety of musical performances and events, bringing a lively cultural scene to the park. Additionally, a new pavilion building offers indoor space for rent, complete with restrooms, parking, and drop-off facilities, providing a convenient and comfortable environment for gatherings and celebrations.
One of the highlights of the Cascade Lake Park improvements is the expanded nature play area. This space has been thoughtfully designed to be more accessible and engaging, with interactive activities that cater to individuals of different abilities. The addition of a new fishing pier further enhances the park's appeal, offering visitors a serene spot to enjoy fishing and connect with nature. For more information and to make online reservations for these facilities, visitors can explore the Cascade Lakeside website.
As the summer heats up, Silver Lake Pool, Foster Arend Beach, and Cascade Lake Beach will be popular destinations for outdoor swimming and aquatic activities. These facilities provide safe and enjoyable environments for families and individuals to cool off and have fun. Detailed information about all the outdoor aquatics options available in Rochester Parks can be found on the Outdoor Pools & Beaches webpage of the city's website.
Beyond the city limits, Olmsted County offers several free parks that are perfect for enjoying outdoor activities this summer. Chester Woods Park, located at 8378 Highway 14 East in Eyota, features approximately 15 miles of trails winding through diverse natural habitats. Visitors can indulge in hiking, swimming at the beach, fishing and picnicking. While entrance to the park is free, amenities such as canoe and kayak rentals are available for a fee, adding to the park's appeal.
Lake Zumbro Park, situated at 4 Fisherman Drive NW in Oronoco, is another fantastic option. This park offers a motorized boat launch, picnic areas, and fishing piers. The ADA-accessible facilities ensure that everyone can enjoy the scenic beauty and recreational opportunities of Lake Zumbro.
Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo, located at 5731 County Road 105 NW in Byron, is a treasure trove of natural beauty and wildlife. With miles of hiking trails and picnic areas, it's an ideal spot for a family day out. The park's Zollman Zoo is home to over 30 species of native Minnesota animals, providing an educational and fun experience for visitors of all ages. The nature center offers interactive exhibits and programs, making it a great resource for learning about local wildlife and conservation efforts. Entrance to the park is free and campsites can be reserved for a fee, making it a convenient and affordable getaway. Find a list of events for Oxbow Park on the county website.
Root River Park, located at 4012 80th St SE in Rochester, features a two-mile looped hiking trail that meanders through meadows and wooded hills along the Root River. This park offers a peaceful escape into nature, perfect for hiking and enjoying the scenic landscape.
In addition to the new park features, Project Get Outdoors is hosting forest bathing walks across southeast Minnesota this summer, specifically for military veterans, their spouses and caretakers. These walks, designed to promote mental and physical well-being, offer a unique opportunity to connect with nature. In Wabasha County, Project Get Outdoors is offering a monthly forest bathing series for older adults. These initiatives aim to provide therapeutic benefits through immersive natural experiences, enhancing the quality of life for participants.
Forest bathing walks are also available locally through the Becoming an Outdoors Woman (BOW) program of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. The BOW program creates a supportive environment for women to develop outdoor skills while fostering social connections. Many participants come with basic knowledge but lack confidence, or they have a passion for a sport but need a network of outdoor friends. The BOW program addresses these needs, offering workshops and activities that empower women to embrace outdoor adventures. Feedback from participants highlights how learning outdoor skills can boost self-esteem, confidence and social connections. More information about the program and its offerings can be found on the BOW website.
In summary, the new and improved facilities in Rochester's parks, coupled with the enriching programs offered by Project Get Outdoors and the BOW initiative, are set to make this summer an exceptional time for community engagement and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to explore nature, enjoy aquatic fun, or develop new skills, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Muse Abdi, M.B.B.S., B.BiomedSc, M.P.H., is a community health specialist and a strategist for the Statewide Health Improvement Partnership (SHIP) at Olmsted County Public Health Services. His responsibilities encompass various health promotion initiatives, including educating healthcare providers about the significance of prescribing time spent in nature and raising public awareness regarding the health advantages of the natural environment. Additionally, he serves as the facilitator for the Southeast Minnesota Park Rx Coalition, and holds the role of co-liaison and co-facilitator for the newly established Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion project known as the Community Council. In addition to his other responsibilities, he also leads the SHIP Community Leadership Team Initiative within the Olmsted County Community Council.
Brian Lynch, M.D., is a primary care pediatrician at Mayo Family Clinic Northwest in Rochester. He co-chairs the Primary Care Work Group of the Mayo Clinic Obesity Council and chairs the Primary Care Obesity Task Force. Dr. Lynch works closely with the Southeast Minnesota Park Rx Team to promote the physical and mental health benefits of spending time in nature with his patients and colleagues.