Sat AM Summer Hike at Afton State Park + Current Restaurant

Let’s meet up for an invigorating 7 mile summer hike at Afton State Park! Following the hike(optional), join us for lunch/refreshments at Current Restaurant, 3291 St Croix Trail S, Afton, MN 55001 Afton Menus - Fine Riverview Dining | Current Restaurant

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.

We will hike about 7 miles at a moderate pace (18-20 minute miles, slower on hills) for about 2 1/2 hours, pausing a few times to hydrate and take in the natural surroundings. 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.

Protective clothing or DEET bug spray should be considered for potential ticks, mosquitoes and other bugs that are active at this time of year. Sunscreen and/or protective clothing are also recommended – some sections of the trail are out in the open prairie with little/no shade.

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

Sorry, no +1s or children allowed on this hike.

Well behaved dogs kept on a 6 ft or shorter leash are welcome. Note: it is unlikely that the post-hike lunch option will allow dogs in the same seating area as the group.

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

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)

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!