Sun AM Hike at Louisville Swamp-MN River NWR - Shakopee + Bun Mee-Bun Tea

Let’s meet up for a winter hike in the Louisville Swamp Unit of the Minnesota River Valley National Wildlife Refuge! Following the hike(optional), join us for food/refreshments at Bun Mee - Bun Tea, Vietnamese Restaurant and Tea House, 4135 Dean Lakes Blvd, Shakopee, MN 553794135 Dean Lakes Blvd, Shakopee, MN 55379 https://www.bunmeebuntea.net/

This is one of the most isolated areas of the refuge with some interesting features, including a large glacial erratic boulder and historic home and farm sites. Louisville Swamp is a great place to see eagles, hawks and beaver activity.

THE HIKE: Expect to hike about 6 miles at a medium pace (~19-20 minute mile) for ~2 – 2 1/2 hours(depending on conditions). We will pause a few times to take in the unique natural surroundings. Ice grippers (ie Kahtoola Microspikes) are recommended due snow and icy trail conditions this time of year.

FACILITIES: There are vault-type toilets at the trailhead. No bathrooms along the trail. No drinking water at the trailhead.

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 will meet at the trail map sign by the parking lot.
I look forward to seeing you there!