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Prairie Hikes
Monthly, March through October
The schedule for 2025 has concluded
Hikes for 2026
We have committed to carrying on with these hikes in 2026. Thank you for your interest!
Look for a scheduling announcement toward the end of winter to join us next year!
What:
Informal hikes for people interested in prairies, held on publicly-accessible land in the Many Rivers Chapter area.
Who:
General public (humans only, no pets)
When:
Schedule for 2026 is yet to be determined.
Hikes are planned to last 1-2 hours; participants may leave at their leisure.
The 2025 hikes were held every 4th Monday at 6:00 pm from March to October.
Where:
Various prairies around Mankato and surrounds. See ‘Dates & Locations’ for meeting location. Plan to meet promptly at start time and depart for hike shortly thereafter.
What to bring:
Participants should wear clothing appropriate for the field and weather (ex. boots, long pants, hat). Be prepared to walk through tall grass on uneven terrain. Bring drinking water and any other supplies you’ll need for a hike.
In case of weather:
Events may be cancelled for inclement weather. In the event of bad weather, check this page for updates prior to the event.
The goal of this event is to help people connect with the beauty of prairies, and to inspire their protection.
Come with us on a hike through the prairie!
Dates & Locations
to be determined for 2026
Past Sessions
April 28, 2025 (Hike cancelled due to inclement weather)
Gustavus Adolphus College Arboretum
May 26, 2025
Sakatah Lake State Park
Memorial Day
Entry permit required: Must have Minnesota State Parks vehicle permit or pay $7 one-day permit at park entrance
June 23, 2025
Swan Lake Wildlife Management Area: North Star Unit
August 25, 2025
Gustavus Adolphus College Arboretum (rescheduled)
More info: The Arboretum at Gustavus Adolphus College
September 22, 2025
Kasota Prairie Scientific and Natural Area
Roadside parking with limited off-road parking. Park on east shoulder of 367th Ave, facing north (44.2676, -94.00234)
More info: Minnesota DNR - Kasota Prairie SNA
October 27, 2025
Ottawa Bluffs Preserve
Roadside parking with limited off-road parking. Park on east shoulder of Highway 23, facing north (44.36301, -93.93392)
More info: The Nature Conservancy - Ottawa Bluffs
Organizers
Jason E. Andersen
Wildlife biologist and firefighter
Michelle Biodrowski
Nature enthusiast
Do you have questions or comments?
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