March weather can be most unpredictable, but once again it has felt more like the end of March than the end of February. Not the greatest news for winter recreation enthusiasts, but an early spring appeals to those tired of short, cloudy days.
Walleye, pike and bass fishing season has ended in this part of Minnesota, but avid anglers can still enjoy excellent pan fishing here. Ice conditions can be unsafe so contact local bait dealers to find a place to set up and use caution around lake edges and river channels.
March usually brings measurable snow and snowmobile and cross country ski trails will still be groomed. Look for snow and trail condition updates from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources posted after 2 p.m. every Thursday at www.dnr.state.mn.us/snow_depth/index.html.
Or enjoy a visit to the headwaters of the Mississippi River where there’s open water year round. If you’ve never checked it out, there’s a webcam at the headwaters at https://parkrapids.com/webcams.
Celebrate the Finnish Saint who led the grasshoppers out of Finland March 17-18 in Menahga. Miss Minnesota 2016 Madeline Van Ert will be in Menahga for this year’s St. Urho Days celebration.. Come out and join in the festivities with Donkey Basketball, the changing of the guard, parade and games.
The Firemen’s Ball, a Park Rapids tradition, returns, sponsored by Northwoods Bank, from 7 p.m. to midnight Saturday, March 25 at Armory Square. Bands playing will be Incredibly Real, Foggy Creek and Free Beer. Tickets at $10 per person are available at Northwoods Bank, Park Rapids City Hall and the Park Rapids Fire Department. Alcohol will be served. All proceeds will benefit the Fire Department.
With the first day of spring approaching March 20, it’s time to plan for the glorious months of summer. Our new Discovery Guide counts the ways to Catch a Memory at the source, the lake, the woods or a local celebration. Let your imagination be your guide.
Area lodging accommodations can be found to suit your style whether it’s camping under the stars, sleeping within walking distance of a golf course or staying at a cabin on a sand beach. Start here for information on campgrounds, motels, resorts, bed and breakfast inns, vacation homes and a hostel. Most accommodations have websites so you can peak inside a cabin or read what other guests have to say about their stay. Or, if you prefer, ask for a copy of the 2017 Discovery Guide and page through the information you’ll find inside.
You may want to plan a visit when one of the area’s special events is taking place and now is the time to make sure you are not disappointed. The Chamber calendar is a great resource for scheduling your stay with dozens of festivals and other fun events all summer long.
If you need help planning a memorable and affordable visit, need more information about activities or if you have questions, call our friendly staff at 800-247-0054 to learn more.