Sat AM 2/14 Mardi Gras hike @ Afton State Park + Social

The end of the Mardi Gras season, or Fat Tuesday, is February 17th. Let’s celebrate Mardi Gras while we can with a hike at Afton State Park!
Following the hike(optional), join us in front of the toasty wood burning stove in the Afton State Park visitor center for a traditional Mardi Gras treat and/or coffee. Feel free to bring your own alternative post hike lunch/snack or drink.

Learn about Mardi Gras here: https://www.kron4.com/news/mardi-gras-101-everything-you-need-to-know/

THE HIKE: Plan to hike 4-5 miles in about 2 hours at a medium pace. Typically 19-20 minute mile, but I expect a slower total pace given the ice/snow on the trails combined with hills. We will pause a few times to take in the natural surroundings, including scenic overlooks of the winter prairie and St. Croix River. The terrain is uneven and varies with rocks, roots, loose gravel, snow, ice, mud and dirt. Afton is HILLY and several on our route are quite steep.
Grippers and/or poles are recommended due to anticipated packed snow and ice on the trail. Feel free to wear your Mardi Gras swag. Just remember – we’re in not in New Orleans, so keep your beads to yourself!!

FACILITIES: There are modern bathrooms at the trailhead, and a couple of pit toilets along the trail. There is drinking water available at the trailhead.

Sorry, no +1s or children allowed on this hike. Only Twin Cities Hiking Meetup members who agree to these expectations will be welcome on the hike.

Well behaved dogs kept on a 6 foot or shorter leash are welcome

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]((https://help.meetup.com/hc/en-us/articles/360002897532-Usage-and-content-policies-Rules-for-using-Meetup))

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!