Sat. AM Hike Minneopa State Park - Mankato + Lunch at Happy Chef + Waterfall

Let's meet up to hike the native prairie grasslands and oak savannah of Minneopa State Park! We will hike to the confluence of Minneopa Creek and the Minnesota river, then around the perimeter of the bison enclosure to hopefully spy some of the Great Plains bison who call this park home. Along the way, we will also visit the historic Seppmann Wind Mill. Following the hike(optional), we will head to Happy Chef for brunch/lunch: 51646 US-169, MANKATO, MN 56001
https://www.happychefrestaurant.com/menu/

Following Happy Chef (optional), we will stop by the Minneopa Falls, where we will walk the short path(.50 mile) out and back to view the two step limestone falls. The word Minneopa is derived from the Dakota language and is interpreted to mean "water falling twice," The trail to the base of Minneopa falls is closed, but the falls are still visible from the upper viewing area.

We will hike approximately 6 miles at a medium pace (~19-20 minute miles) over approximately 2-2.5 hours, We will stop a few times to enjoy the scenery and hydrate. All of the trails will be non-paved trails with uneven terrain that varies with gravel, sand, mud and dirt. This is a generally flat trail, but be prepared for a couple of hills.

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 as most of this trail is out in the open with few trees for shade.

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

FACILITIES: There is a pit toilet at the trailhead and halfway through the, as well as drinking water.

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

CARPOOLS: Contact one another directly or post a carpool meeting time and place in the Comment section of this event page. Remember to coordinate whether you will stop at Happy Chef and the waterfall after 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)

The map pin is correct - We will meet in the parking lot off of the campground road (not by Seppman Mill or the Waterfall). After entering the park, go right(left is the Bison Drive), and that road will lead to the parking lot. We will meet at the east side of the parking lot.
See you there!