Sat AM Long Hilly Hike @ Afton State Park + Lumberyard Pub - Afton

Let’s meet up for an invigorating long Summer hike at Afton State Park! Following the hike(optional) join us for food/refreshments at nearby Lumberyard Pub, 3121 St Croix Trail S, Afton, MN 55001. https://www.lumberyardpubmn.com/lunch-and-dinner

Afton State Park’s grand oaks and delicate prairie flowers grace the rugged, rolling landscape of this park. Trails pass through remnant and restored prairies, wind down deep ravines, and rise up to the grassy ridgetops and bluffs overlooking the scenic St. Croix River.

THE HIKE: Expect to be hiking 2.5 - 3 .5 hours at a medium pace (18-20 minute mile or 3 miles/hour, slower on hills) over 7.5-8 miles. We will pause a few times to hydrate and enjoy the scenery. This park is known for its many hills and our hike will confirm that reputation. Trails are of bare earth, rock, turf and gravel. There may be washouts, ruts, exposed roots, steep stairs, steep hills, mud and/or standing water. You may want to consider poles to assist with traction on this hike, especially if there is recent rain. We will hike in rain, but not a thunderstorm.

Bathrooms: There are modern restrooms in the visitor center with a couple of vault toilets along the trail.

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

Sorry, no pets, +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)

FINDING US: After passing the park office/ranger station, follow the road until you come upon large parking lots on the right. The visitor center is closest to the first 2 parking lots. We will meet in front of the visitor center(up the sidewalk from the first 2 parking lots).

I look forward to seeing you there!