About three years ago my family of five (including myself) decided that we wanted to attempt to visit every state park in Minnesota. When they first told me the idea I thought state parks? Really? This is going to be interesting. What I found out however, is that the state parks was one of the best ideas my family ever had. Sometimes we would drive to them, others we would stop by if we were in the area, and others we would see during vacations that we went on.
We have not yet seen all of them, we have been to about 30 with about 40 left to go. It is a tradition in my family, and I know we will not stop until we reach them all. This adventure has provided my family with so many bonding opportunities, sure we have all had our days when we are not in the mood to go hike for miles and miles, but it has given us a fun goal to work together to achieve. I can’t tell you how many laughs and memories we have made at state parks, and how many are still to come!
The state parks have definitely been what we’ve made them. At Gooseberry Falls we climbed on rocks next to the river and lake, hiked, and packed a picnic that got ambushed by seagulls. At Jay Cooke we climbed on the rocks and got right out by the lake leading to the waterfall. It is cool to be able to go adventuring with my family.
My favorite park by far has been Cascade River State Park. My family was getting along great. We all took pictures on this huge stump and we got right next to the waterfall which was inside a hill/cave. It looked like a scene straight out of Lord of the Rings. If you ever are looking for a place to go and adventure in nature I would highly suggest this park!
If you are ever looking for a fun and unique to bond with your family this would be it! No matter how much patience it took sometimes and no how sore your body got from hiking it was always worth it to me!!
Life According to Ali 