Walks of Wonder Make space for awe in your life as we explore outdoors this summer. Being in nature can be grounding. It can remind us of our connection to all things and to our creator. Join in these community walks/ events to connect, exercise, explore, and gain a sense of awe for the beauty of the world. We will meet at the designated location, begin with a brief reading and prayer, and walk or explore. Some weeks will have a special focus or activity. Everyone is welcome, please note the terrain to determine accessibility. Plan for 1-1.5 hours. (Click on the location to be directed to Google Maps)
Location: DWP Railroad Tunnel/ Ely’s Peak/ Superior Hiking Trail Meet at the Short Line Park Parking Area, Becks Rd Date/Time: Monday, June 5, 1pm Terrain: Footpath Special Focus: Nature Journaling. Dedicate a journal to recording your summer awesome sightings!
Location: Park Point Trail Meet at the fence/entrance near the airport - end of Minnesota Dr Date/Time: Wednesday, June 14, 2pm Terrain: Natural path/ gravel Special Focus:
Location: Quarry Park- Disc Golf Meet at parking lot, end of N 59th Ave W Date/Time: Monday, June 19, 6:30pm Terrain: natural Special Focus: Hiking with a game! One way to make going for a walk more interesting is throwing something as you go. Bring your discs; Pastor Liz has some to share.
Location: Willard Munger State Trail Meet at Parking Lot on S 75th Ave W near Bayhill Dr Date/Time: Wednesday, June 21, 9:30am Terrain: Paved multi-use path
Location: Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, neighborhood, garden Date/Time: Wednesday, June 28, 9:30am Terrain: Road, sidewalk, grass to garden. Special Focus: Neighborhood, pollinator garden. We’ll learn a bit about the plants in the pollinator garden and why they are important for the well-being of creation. Afterwards, join for coffee and treats in the church library.
Location: Kingsbury Creek Trail Meet at the Kingsbury Creek Trailhead at Waseca St near the zoo Date/Time: Monday, July 3, 1pm Terrain: Footpath
Location: The Rose Garden/ Lakewalk Meet at the fountain in The Rose Garden Date/Time: Thursday, July 13, 10am Terrain: Paved multi-use path with ramps. Special Focus: Prepare to engage your senses as we admire the roses in bloom. Bring your camera, phone, or sketchbook to capture the fleeting beauty. After some admiration and art, those who wish for more exercise can continue on the Lakewalk.
Location: Lester Park Meet at the playground Date/Time: Sunday, July 23, 3pm Terrain: Flat, wide, packed trail to overlook river. Uneven footpath to the riverbank. Natural trail for walking. Benches for those who want to simply enjoy the location without significant walking. Notes: We’ll focus on the shallow river as a place to explore the critters that call the river home. We’ll mostly just hang out, and may take a brief walk. There is also a playground. Special Focus: Kids & water critters- bring your nets, clear jars, and magnifying glasses. Plan to get wet!
Location: United Lutheran Church, neighborhood, garden Meet at the double door front entrance Date/Time: Monday, August 7, 10am Terrain: Road, grass to garden Special Focus: Neighborhood, community garden. We’ll end in the community garden, admiring the plots!
Location: Jean Duluth Soccer Fields Meet at parking lot Date/Time: Thursday, August 10, 9:30pm Terrain: Grass, minimal walking Special Focus: Star gazing, Perseid Meteor Shower. Bring a lawn chair, blanket and warm clothes to watch the stars and maybe make a wish on a falling star! If you have them, bring binoculars/ telescope. Bring a flashlight, and keep it pointed down on the ground at all times.
Location: Hawk Ridge Meet at large rocks across street from Hawk Ridge’s display area Date/Time: Wednesday, September 13, 12:30pm Terrain: Walk and view from road, natural path trails for walk after viewing Special Focus: Fall Raptor Migration. Learn a bit from the Hawk Ridge staff and volunteers. Bring your binoculars! We’ll also take a walk on the trails. Please note that this is a busy season in this area and you may need to park and walk on the road a bit.