Winter wonderland: Exploring outdoor adventures
1/8/2024 by Muse Abdi, M.B.B.S., B.BiomedSc, M.P.H., and Brian Lynch, M.D.
As winter blankets Minnesota in a glistening layer of snow, the state's natural beauty beckons outdoor enthusiasts to embark on thrilling adventures. With an array of state parks, county programs and activities in the vibrant city of Rochester, the winter season promises a plethora of experiences for all. Whether you're seeking the tranquility of a snowy trail, the excitement of winter sports or the enchantment of holiday lights, this article will lead you through the diverse winter offerings that Southeast Minnesota Parks have to offer. From informative events at Oxbow Park to the winter wonderland in the City of Rochester, Let's embrace the season and discover the magic outdoors in our parks.
Minnesota State Parks: Winter wellness and recreation
With 75 state parks and over 1,300 miles of state trails in Minnesota, there are countless opportunities to explore the outdoors this winter while reaping numerous health benefits. Visit Whitewater State Park to participate in a variety of naturalist programming, including snowshoe hikes, winter geocaching and Take a Kid Ice Fishing events. Engaging in winter activities promotes cardiovascular health, improves mood and enhances overall well-being. Check out the Minnesota State Parks Winter Guide to learn about winter recreation opportunities across the state. The ParkFinder tool will help you locate state parks with sledding hills, warming shelters, groomed trails, winter camping, snowshoe and ski rentals and other amenities. No matter what outdoor activities you enjoy this winter, dressing for the weather will keep you safe and comfortable.
Olmsted County Parks programs for winter: Embracing nature for physical and mental health
Olmsted County Parks is offering diverse winter programs with accessibility accommodations at Oxbow Park and Chester Woods Park. At Oxbow Park, attendees can not only learn about American Kestrel behavior but also enjoy bird watching during Birdability Week and explore the elk and deer pens. These activities provide opportunities for physical exercise, mindfulness, connecting with nature and contributing to improved mental health. Other activities include observing river otters, discovering facts about turkeys and taking a health-focused nature stroll. Snow rental equipment, including snowshoes, cross-country skis and kicksleds, is available.
Engaging in outdoor activities, even in the colder months, contributes to a healthy lifestyle. Similar to Oxbow Park, snow rental equipment is available at Chester Woods Park. For more information or accommodation requests at Oxbow Park, contact oxbow@olmstedcounty.gov or call 507-328-7340, be sure to provide advance notice for specific needs.
For additional program information, visit the Olmsted County Parks programs website.
Rochester Area: Active Living in the Winter Wonderland
The Rochester Parks & Recreation system offers many opportunities to get out and enjoy the winter season. Cross-country ski trails and a sledding hill are available at Gamehaven Park. Snowmaking services will also be available at Gamehaven this winter, enabling the department to ensure the trails are in good shape all winter long.
Nine different ice rink skating locations are also available throughout the city. These are typically ready for skating in late December and maintained through early March. A full list of locations can be found on the outdoor rinks page of the website. Ice skates are also available at the Soldiers Field Park skating oval on Saturdays and Sundays starting in January. The skates can be checked out and utilized from 12-4 p.m. on those dates. Any changes to the schedule or weather closures will be posted on the Parks & Recreation Facebook page.
Additional cross-country skiing locations are available around Rochester, including Eastwood Golf Course, Quarry Hill Park and Essex Park. Sledding is also available at Judd Park. A list of locations and addresses can be found on the cross-country skiing and sledding webpage.
The Rochester Recreation Center offers several open skating opportunities as well. Patrons can skate on one of the indoor rinks, and ice skates are available for rent if needed. More information and online reservations can be found on the Rec Center website.
Quarry Hill Nature Center and Park offers a wide array of winter activities. Equipment such as cross-country skis and snowshoes can also be rented at the nature center to enhance your exploration of the park. More information on programs and rental equipment can be found on the Quarry Hill Nature Center website.
So, as winter blankets Southeast Minnesota in its snowy embrace, the parks in this region beckon you to embrace the season's wonders. From the tranquility of snowy trails in state parks to the diverse programs offered by Olmsted County Parks and the vibrant activities in the City of Rochester, there's an abundance of opportunities for outdoor adventures and the promotion of both physical and mental well-being. So, gear up, explore, and let the magic of winter unfold in Southeast Minnesota's enchanting parks. For more information and to plan your winter escapades, don't forget to dive into the Parks & Rec Facility Directory and visit the City of Rochester Parks & Recreation website. Winter awaits, and the parks are ready to be your playground.
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; holds the role of co-liaison and co-facilitator for the newly established Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion project known as the Community Council; and is the lead of 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.