October 2022
Migrate north for fall fun and adventure
Fall colors have not peaked yet so there’s still time to head north to explore the country roads, trails and lakes and enjoy the views.
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 will close for the season Oct. 2, but October’s calendar offers naturalist programs and guided 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, 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 family fun continues at Carters’ Fall Festival Saturdays and Sundays through Oct. 30 as well as Friday, Oct. 21 (MEA weekend). Admission hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and noon to 5 p.m. Sundays. Check out a Wild West corn maze; and explore the world of the Wild West on a wagon ride. Admission covers two corn mazes, giant hay bale maze, straw bale maze, play barn/silo/tree house, giant slides, crow shoot, corn pit, farm mini golf, duck races, ImagiNick shows, live bluegrass from “Figuring It Out” and other events. Concessions, general store and pumpkins are additional. Please feel free to bring your own food. For directions and a schedule go to http://cartersfarm.org.
Starting at 9 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 10 the Red River Bar and Grill on Highway 34 east of Akeley will host the Fall Y’all Craft & Gift Show. More than 30 vendors will set up inside and outside and visitors will find a pumpkin patch, bake sale and cash bar. The event is free to attend and ends at 4 p.m.
Downtown Park Rapids welcomes shoppers during all seasons and fall is a great time to check out the merchandise from caramel apples to fall décor to great reads and maybe do some early Christmas shopping. Trick or Treaters will be welcomed downtown from 3:30 to 5:30 Monday, Oct. 31.
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 218-732-4111 to learn more.