October 2023
Fall’s expiration date hasn’t been stamped yet
With no frost yet fall colors are still peaking and driving country roads and trails brings
glorious views at every turn. If you still have access to a boat, canoe or kayak, you’ll
find the same beauty from the water.
Most cornfields haven’t been harvested and patient gardeners still have tomatoes on
the vine. Some hunters have headed to the woods and water 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. Douglas Lodge closed for
the season Oct. 1, but the cafe at the Headwaters is still open and 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 fall
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.
Carters’ Farm welcomes you to Fall Festival 2023 Saturdays and Sundays through
Oct. 29 and Friday, Oct. 20. This year’s theme for wagon ride drama and the giant
corn maze is Folklore and Fairy Tales. Enjoy an autumn day at the farm with live
musical and magic performances, autumn-themed games and activities. And pick up
a pumpkin or two, ornamentals and try delicious food from local vendors.
Park Rapids is one stop on the Minnesota State Band’s tour celebrating its 125th
anniversary. They will give a free concert at 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 12 at the Area High
School auditorium. On the same day from 4 to 8 p.m. Giiwedinong, a Treaty Rights
and Culture Museum located in the former Carnegie Library, will celebrate a grand
opening during Indigenous Peoples Week.
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. Trick or Treaters will be welcomed
downtown from 3:30 to 5:30 Tuesday, 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.