Fall is tiptoeing around the lakes area this year giving visitors many more days and weekends to enjoy the change of seasons. Most years, colors peak at the end of September, but the full on beauty hasn’t arrived yet.
Gardeners are still harvesting tomatoes from diminished, but not yet frost damaged patches in their yards. The potato harvest is well under way, but other crops have been given more time to develop.
Still, the busy pace of summer has slowed and the north woods have grown quieter. On a walk, the only sounds you hear are the crunch of leaves and pine needles underfoot, the occasional chatter of squirrels putting away food for winter or geese overhead noisily winging their way southward.
It’s time to hike, bike or simply gaze at the landscape and let your senses take in the comforting scent of crisp fall air.
Some hunters have already headed to the woods and water, paddlers relish one more morning cruise around the lake, anglers take to the water on warm afternoons and evenings are cool but not too cold to enjoy by a campfire.
The Park Rapids Lakes Area remains a beautiful, peaceful place to head outdoors, relax or enjoy some local culture. There’s always lots to see and do.
Every Saturday in October, Carters Red Wagon Farm (14766 119th Avenue) is hosting Pumpkin Parties. Bring the family for fall fun including a hay bale maze, wagon rides, a crow shoot, giant slide, a pumpkin propeller, giant pumpkin boats, “cow milking” and other activities. The parties also offer concessions, bluegrass bands and a 6.5-acre corn maze featuring Itasca State Park.
Arts Downtown PR (3rd Thursdays) continues Oct. 17 with free events at downtown locations from 5 to 7 p.m. followed by a concert by Kind Country playing Minnesota bluegrass at the Armory. Doors at the Armory open at 7 and the concert begins at 7:30 p.m.
Main Street businesses will hand out treats to trick or treaters from 3 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 31. Watching the parade of hundreds of colorful, costumed characters is part of the fun.
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.