- A traditional St. Urho Days hat.
After a string of subzero, bone chilling weeks then a beautiful snowfall at the end of February, anglers, snowmobilers and cross country skiers did the Minnesota thing and embraced winter.
And it’s not over yet.
Walleye, pike and bass fishing season has ended in this part of the state, but avid anglers can still enjoy excellent pan fishing. 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 more measurable snow and snowmobile and cross country ski trails will still be groomed. Or try out a pair of snowshoes for a new way to explore winter’s silence and beauty. 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. You can also find an updated Winter Trail Conditions Report every Thursday here.
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 16-17 in Menahga. Laverne & Lucy will bring their musical comedy show to entertain Friday evening. Wear purple and green to enjoy Saturday’s traditional festivities: the changing of the guard at the statue of St. Urho, a parade, games and fine Finnish cuisine.
On March 17, local beverage and dining establishments are already planning a taste of another culture’s traditions where wearin’ the green will keep the Leprechauns at bay.
2018 Park Rapids Lakes Area Visitors Guide
We’re counting down to the first day of spring March 20, so 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 peek inside a cabin or read what other guests have to say about their stay.
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. – Luann Hurd-loff