Dec 25th AM Hike - MN River Valley Trails in Bloomington + Grand Szechuan
Details
Let’s meet up for a Christmas morning hike on the Minnesota River Valley National Wildlife Refuge trails! We will hike from the Pond Dakota Mission Park to the Old Cedar Avenue Bridge and back. Following the hike, join us (optional) for food/drinks at Grand Szechuan Restaurant, 10602 France Ave S, Bloomington, MN 55431
https://grandszechuanmn.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/%E5%A0%82%E5%90%83.pdf
The Minnesota River Valley in Bloomington is a rich mosaic of plant and animal communities, full of floodplain marshes, wet meadows, fens and lakes. These wetlands are maintained by the river and by the spring-fed streams that drain from the base of the bluffs. The hillsides and bluffs support oak forest and oak savanna remnants, as well as outstanding scenic overlooks. Swans, eagles, owls, Cardinals and robins are among the birds that can be seen or heard along this trail in the winter.
THE HIKE: Plan to hike about 6 miles over about 2+ hours at a medium pace (19-20 min mile). We will pause a few times to take in the natural surroundings. The terrain is uneven and varies with rocks, roots, loose gravel, snow, ice, mud and dirt. There are some hills. Grippers (ie: Kahtoola Microspikes) and/or poles are recommended due to anticipated packed snow and ice on the trail.
Bathrooms: There is a portable toilet at the trailhead and a portable toilet at the half way point of the hike(Old Cedar Bridge).
Sorry, no dogs, +1s or children allowed. Only Twin Cities Hiking Meetup members who agree to these expectations will be welcome on the 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
We’ll meet at the south end of the parking lot - towards the Gideon Pond House. I look forward to seeing you there!