I know there’ll be some nicer days left in September, October and maybe even into November, but this Sunday isn’t one of them! 50-60 degrees and a NW wind around 20 mph gusting into the 30s. Just not that great a day to bike. I know Lyle has a short ride and I told him to put some rocks in his pockets. I think this is a better day to go for a walk at Battle Creek Park on both paved and turf trails. The trails there are pretty sheltered and we may even see some autumn leaf colors in the woods. We'll walk for an hour and a half and end up with around 4-5 miles depending on how fast we’re moving along – maybe not all that fast our first time out – and there are a few hills there. Meet at Battle Creek Park starting from the round pavilion with the green roof.
Use the Battle Creek Park Water Works address of 2401 Upper Afton Rd, Maplewood, MN 55109. Entrance to the parking lot is .2 miles east on your left of the 4-way stop sign at the corner of McKnight Rd N and Upper Afton Rd. The big round pavilion is right across the parking lot from the Water Park. Look for us along the western edge of the parking lot. Portable toilet there and one at the other end of the park by Lower Afton Road and/or possibly indoor bathrooms open but not sure about the water situation so bring water and a snack in case you feel faint along the way and need nourishment.
We’ll do the asphalt loop on the south side of Upper Afton Road and crisscross using some turf trails through the woods. If we feel good and want a little more, we can always do an out/back section of the trail down through the ravine and then circle back on trails past the Water Park to return. My plan is to stay out of the wind as much as possible. I don’t have a map but we’ll kind of “wing it” based on how everyone is feeling. Questions or to let us know you'll be joining us so don't leave without you -- call or text me at 612.381.6711. Leashed dogs are very welcome.
