After a glorious warm weekend for the Headwaters 100 Bike Ride and Art Leap, fall’s cooler temps moved in bringing thoughts of bonfires, fireplaces and hot apple cider.
Some hunters have already headed to the woods and water, paddlers relish one more morning cruise around the lake and anglers take to the water catching fish (maybe), but also the mirror image of fall colors.
For others, it’s time to hike, bike or simply gaze at the landscape and take in the comforting scent of crisp fall air. 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.
Carters Red Wagon Farm (14766 119th Avenue) is hosting Pumpkin Parties again this fall. The Farm is open each Saturday through Nov. 1 as well as Friday, Oct. 17 (Teacher Association weekend). Experience this year’s corn maze featuring Mysteries of the World plus a hay bale maze, Hobbit-themed wagon rides, a crow shoot, giant slide, pumpkin propeller, giant pumpkin boats, “cow milking” and other activities as well as concessions, bluegrass bands and more.
The 8th Annual North Country Hiking Fest is coming up Saturday, Oct. 4 at Itasca State Park. Organized hikes will start at 11 a.m. with shuttles provided to various starting points. Then at 1:30 p.m. the Friends of Itasca state Park will host the 27th Annual Ozawindib Walk in honor of the Ojibwe guide who led Henry Rowe Schoolcraft’s expedition to the Mississippi Headwaters in July 1832. Other events planned Saturday are a compass learning activity, leaf art, Voyageur re-enactment program, cookout and music.
Or head west for Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge’s Fall Festival Saturday, Oct. 4. Several organized hiking events are planned during October, a beautiful time of year to enjoy the scenery without a mosquito in sight.
Main Street businesses will hand out treats to trick or treaters from 3 to 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31. Watching the stream of hundreds of colorful, costumed characters is part of the fun.
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 stay. If you want help or have questions, call our friendly staff at 800-247-0054 to learn more.