Loon Picture by Nancy Wilkins.
Spring is chasing signs of winter away from the lakes and woods.
The loons are back, trees are budding and rivers are open. On a short drive, it’s common to see a trifecta of bald eagles, wild turkeys and white-tailed deer.
Spring rituals like ditch clean up can finally begin. Residents and resort owners are glad for nice weather to rake and spruce up their lawns and grounds.
Coffee shop talk always goes to whether or not big lakes will be open for the fishing opener Saturday, May 12. Fish Hook River is open already. A little rain and wind and many warm days are forecast before the big day so anglers are optimistic. You can check out the webcams on Lake Itasca, Big Sand and Long Lake to see for yourself how much progress there is.
The Chamber will host the 4th Annual Minnesota Bike Opener. Celebrate the start of biking season from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, May 19 at Heartland Park. The Bike Opener offers a ride on the Heartland Trail. Itascatur Outdoor Activity Club members will bring bike safety info, present tire changing demos and give away bike helmets.
Otto Hendrickson Post 212 puts together an inspiring Memorial Day Service. This year it will be at 9:30 a.m. Monday, May 28 at the Park Rapids Area High School. Ceremonies move to the All Veterans Memorial adjacent to the Chamber Visitor Center and it would be a good day to visit the new All Veterans Memorial Museum, too.
It’s not too late to plan your summer vacation. If you haven’t visited here for awhile, we welcome you to come back again and see why anglers and families, fun seekers and adventurers have come to catch memories of our natural areas, forests and pristine lakes for decades.
Resorts and other lodging accommodations in the Park Rapids area provide guests a place to stay and will help visitors realize their dream vacation, whether it’s lying on the beach with a good book, venturing out to learn more about the local flora and fauna or timing a stay to take in local festivals or cultural events. The Chamber website can assist with your trip planning.
If you need help planning a memorable and affordable visit, need more information about the area or have questions, call our friendly staff at 800-247-0054 to learn more. – LuAnn Hurd-lof