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Prairie Hikes
Monthly, April through September
Weather Update for September Hike:
We are planning to hold the hike this evening, Wednesday September 16th. The forecast shows there is a chance of light rain for this evening but it does not look like it will settle in until our after our hike is finished. See you at Traverse des Sioux!
// Updated by Jason, Sept 16 @11:20 am.
Come with us on a hike through the prairie!
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:
Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday evenings starting at 6:00pm from April through September, 2026. Hikes are planned to last 1-2 hours; participants may leave at their leisure. See ‘Dates & Locations’ for specific dates.
Where:
Various prairies around Mankato and surrounds. Plan to meet at 6pm and depart on hike shortly thereafter. See ‘Dates & Locations’ for hike location and where to meet.
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.
Dates & Locations
April 6
Ottawa Bluffs Preserve
A search for spring pasqueflower
Roadside parking with limited off-road parking. Park on the east shoulder of Highway 23, facing north (44.36337, -93.93509)
More info: The Nature Conservancy - Ottawa Bluffs
May 19
Minneopa State Park
Meet at Minneopa State Park Loop Trailhead parking lot near group campsite (44.15731, -94.08615)
Entry permit required: Must have Minnesota State Parks vehicle permit or pay $7 one-day permit at park entrance
Entry permit required: Must have Minnesota State Parks vehicle permit or pay $7 one-day permit at park entrance
More info: Minnesota DNR - Minneopa State Park
June 17
Bluff Park
Meet at Bluff Park parking lot at 188 Mary Cir, North Mankato (44.18229, -94.0248)
More info: City of North Mankato - Bluff Park
August 11
Butternut Valley Prairie Scientific and Natural Area
More info: Minnesota DNR - Butternut Valley Prairie SNA
September 16
Traverse des Sioux
Meet at Traverse des Sioux parking lot at 1851 N Minnesota Ave, St. Peter (44.34883, -93.95036)
More info: Explore Minnesota - Traverse des Sioux
Organizers
Jason E. Andersen
Wildlife biologist and firefighter
Michelle Biodrowski
Nature enthusiast
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