October 2010
Carve out some time to relax
“Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature’s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop off like falling leaves.” – John Muir
No mountains here, but if John Muir had come to lake country and hiked on a forest trail in the fall, he might have written the same verse.
October arrived cloaked in gold with splashes of red, crimson and yellow and deep green pine borders. When the leaves drop and the landscape opens, the views remain spectacular if not a bit melancholy. Winter will soon knock on the door but just tease with a white dusting.
Meanwhile, hunters head to the woods and water, paddlers relish one more morning cruise around the lake, anglers fish one more time on a sunny afternoon and we burn logs in the fireplace to warm up.
The Park Rapids Lakes Area remains a beautiful, peaceful place to head outdoors, relax or enjoy some local culture. There’s always lots to see and do.
Pumpkin Parties at Carters Red Wagon Farm in Park Rapids entertain families every Saturday in October. You will find a sunflower maze, rides, treasure hunts, a pumpkin propeller and more fun. Make your own cider, too. Admission starts at 10:30 a.m. and closes at 5 p.m.
Join members and friends of the Laurentian Lakes Chapter for a 2.2-mile hike – rain or shine – on the proposed route of the North Country National Scenic Trail in the Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge. The hike will start at 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 9 from the Pine Lake Ski Trailhead off Becker County 29. Hikers will enjoy the last colors of fall along Tamarac Lake. Bring a snack/lunch, water and sturdy footgear.
The Arts Downtown PR series will continue from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 21 in downtown Park Rapids. This event is designed to bring audiences to see and hear visual artists, musicians, writers and other artists in businesses in downtown Park Rapids on the Third Thursday of the month year round. A schedule of times various artists will be performing will be available at downtown businesses and the Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber office as well as on the Park Rapids Downtown Business Association website (www.parkrapidsdowntown.com). The public is invited to participate in these events and encouraged to make a free will donation to the artists.
The Minnesota Folklore Theater Children’s Theater will present “Prairie Songs,” a play with music based on the books of Laura Ingalls Wilder, Oct. 22, 23, 24, 29 and 30.
Main Street businesses will hand out treats to colorful, costumed characters from 3 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 30.
Many other activities and events to celebrate fall are on the October calendar. The Chamber Website has all the information you need to put together a memorable vacation or weekend visit. If you want help or have questions, call our friendly staff at 800-247-0054 to learn more.