Gotta Catch 'Em All: Washington County Hikes Get Residents Outside

Amidst a Pokémon Go craze that proponents say is propelling kids and adults be active, Washington County offers several outdoor alternatives that don't involve a cell phone.

Guided fitness hikes are under way in county parks. Participants hit the trails at Big Marine Park Reserve on Aug. 2, but the tour continues Thursday, Aug. 11 from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. at Lake Elmo Park Reserve.

A rotating schedule of guided fitness hikes throughout the Washington County Parks trail system includes a regular program at Lake Elmo Park Reserve, as well as a monthly "Free Tuesday Trails Tour" to explore other sites. Each hike takes a full hour and includes a warm-up and various fitness challenges along the way.

Trail routes vary by park but consist of turf, gravel, grass, and paved paths with light to moderately steep terrain areas. Participants should dress for the weather and activities; a water bottle is recommended.

Programs are open to those aged 13 years or older. Minors must be accompanied by an adult and all should plan to arrive about 10 minutes early. Hikes will continue as scheduled amidst light rain.

Lake Elmo Park Reserve hikes take place every Thursday from 9 to 10 a.m. Some of the October hikes will be held from 6 to 7 p.m. Participants should meet at the Nordic Center.

Save the following dates for Lake Elmo Park Reserve hikes:

• Thursday, Aug. 25
• Thursday, Sept. 8, 22
• Thursday, Oct. 6
• Thursday, Oct. 13 (6-7 p.m.)
• Thursday, Oct. 20
• Thursday, Oct. 27 (6-7 p.m.)
• Thursday, Nov. 3
• Thursday, Nov. 17
• Thursday, Dec. 1

Free Tuesdays Fitness Hikes will rotate through Washington County parks on the first Tuesday of each month from 6 to 7 p.m. The final one of the season is slated for Sept. 6 at the Washington County Historic Courthouse (meet on the front stairs).

For Washington County park locations, visit www.co.washington.mn.us/parks. Call 651-430-8370 or email parks@co.washington.mn.us with any questions.

All programs are free with a Washington County Parks vehicle permit ($5/day or $25/annual). No vehicle permit is required on Free Tuesdays.

Accompanying photo courtesy of Flickr.