Sat. AM Minneopa State Park bison + Lunch at Happy Chef + Waterfall – Mankato

Join us on this day trip to Minneopa State Park! We will hike to the confluence of Minneopa Creek and the Minnesota river, then around the perimeter of the bison enclosure to hopefully spy some of this year’s bison calves, as well as visit the historic Seppmann Wind Mill. Following the hike(optional), we will take the Bison Drive Road through the middle of the range for a closer look at the bison, then head to Happy Chef for brunch/lunch: 51646 US-169, Mankato, MN 56001
https://www.happychefrestaurant.com/menu/

We will hike approximately 6 miles at a medium pace (~19-20 minute miles) over approximately 2-2.5 hours, We will stop a few times to enjoy the scenery and hydrate. All of the trails will be non-paved trails with uneven terrain that varies with gravel, sand, rocks, roots mud and dirt. This is a generally flat trail, but be prepared for a couple of hills. For an extra workout, CONSIDER BRINGING YOUR PACK! This is optional, but I will be wearing my pack for this hike.

Following brunch/lunch (optional), we will stop by the Minneopa Falls, in a different area of the state park: 54497 Gadwall Rd, Mankato, MN 56001, where we will walk the short path(.50 mile) out and back to view the two step limestone falls. The word Minneopa is derived from the Dakota language and is interpreted to mean "water falling twice," The trail to the base of Minneopa falls is closed, but the falls are still visible from the upper viewing area.

Protective clothing or DEET bug spray should be considered for potential ticks, mosquitoes and other bugs that are active at this time of year.
Sunscreen and/or protective clothing are also recommended – most of this trail is out in the open with few trees for shade.
Bathrooms: There is a pit toilet at the trailhead, as well as drinking water.

CARPOOLS: Contact one another directly or post a carpool meeting time and place in the Comment section of this event page. Remember to coordinate whether you will stop at Happy Chef and the waterfall after the hike.

Each car will need a state park pass. The prices are: $35 for an annual pass and $7 for a daily pass.

Sorry, no dogs(due to the bison), +1s or children allowed on this hike.

IMPORTANT: Please honor your RSVP and if your plans change update your status to Not Going as soon as you know, even if you are on the Waitlist.

HIKE AT YOUR OWN RISK: By signing up for this event, you agree to assume personal responsibility for all risks associated with this event, and release the organizers, event hosts, and other members of the venue, from any liability.

Furthermore, all participants are expected to adhere to the guidelines agreed to when signing up for Meetup which can be reviewed at: Meetup.com > Policies and Community Guidelines > Community Guidelines (https://help.meetup.com/hc/en-us/articles/360002897532-Usage-and-content-policies-Rules-for-using-Meetup)

The map pin is correct - We will meet in the parking lot off of the campground road (not by Seppman Mill or the Waterfall). After entering the park, go right(left is the Bison Drive), and that road will lead to the parking lot.
See you there!