Naturally, fall may be the most beautiful of all
With an unseasonably late first frost, fall colors in the woods and along roads, trails and the lakeshore remain brilliant.
Gardeners are enjoying the extended season and the fall crop harvest is well underway. When temperatures shift, fog veils the picturesque landscape of stacked bales of hay and wetlands. Some hunters have headed to the woods and water, paddlers relish one more morning cruise around the lake and anglers take to the water catching fish and the mirror image of fall colors.
For others, it’s time to hike, bike or ride miles of ATV trails and take in the comforting scent of crisp fall air, then enjoy a bonfire, hot apple cider and spectacular sunsets.
One place to go for a peaceful escape is Itasca State Park. Dining facilities are closed for the season, but October’s calendar offers nature programs and guided hikes walks to learn more about this wondrous place.
If you’ve never traveled the Lake Country Scenic Byway between Walker and Detroit Lakes and the spur between Park Rapids and Itasca, it’s time to make the drive. A forester once wrote that state Highway 34 is Minnesota’s most beautiful fall route with the transition from the pines of the Chippewa National Forest to the Smoky Hills State Forest’s hardwoods and golden tamaracks. To check out the progression of all colors this month, go to https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/fall_colors/index.html.
Heartland Lakes remains a beautiful, peaceful place to head outdoors, relax or enjoy some local culture. There’s always lots to see and do.
Fall fun continues at Carters’ Fall Festival Saturdays through Oct. 31 as well as Friday, Oct. 22 (Teacher Association weekend). The festival offers everything to love about fall and includes a Medieval fantasy maze ,wagon rides, live music, a straw bale maze and more at the farm, 14766 119th Ave. Stock up on pumpkins for fall decorating, too. To learn about other activities and a schedule go to https://cartersfarm.org/
Downtown Park Rapids welcomes shoppers during all seasons and fall is a great time to check out the merchandise from caramel apples to fall decor to great reads and maybe do some early Christmas shopping.
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.