Spring Wildflower Hike at MN River Valley NWR - Bloomington + Brunch

Let’s meet-up for a ~ 6 mile hike to explore the many spring ephemerals that are found along the scenic 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 brunch/lunch/coffee at Taste of Scandinavia Café, 401 West 98th Street, Bloomington, MN 55420
https://tasteofscandinavia.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Version-2-TOS-Bloomington-Menu-2022-13x19-1.pdf

Plan to hike about 6 miles over about 2+ hours at a medium pace (18-20 min mile). We will pause a few times to take in the natural surroundings and admire the flowers. The terrain is uneven and varies with rocks, roots, loose gravel, mud, dirt, and standing water. There are some hills. We will cross a few shallow water areas-stepping on stones and branches/logs, so you may want to consider waterproof hiking boots and/or hiking poles.
*Please consider taking precautions for ticks(tucking pants into socks, DEET spray, etc) as they are present on MN trails now*

FACILITIES: There is a portable toilet at the trailhead and another one at the half way point of the hike(Old Cedar Bridge).

PARKING is free!

Sorry, no dogs, +1s or children allowed on this hike. Only Twin Cities Hiking Meetup members who agree to these expectations and the Meetup Community Guidelines 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!