North Country Hiking Fest

Description

Presented by North Country Trail Association/Laurentian Lakes Chapter

Join us at Itasca for a day packed full of family friendly and healthy activities focusing on the National North Country Trail.  This is a perfect day to take a hike!  There are numerous guided and self-guided hikes available for people of all ages and skill levels.  Hikes will explore portions of the North Country Trail as well as several trails within the park.  A variety of hikes and activities are scheduled throughout the afternoon ranging from short walks to long-distance hikes. 

Hikers should bring the following:  a day pack, rain gear, good boots, bug spray, water and your own trail lunch.  You may also buy a bag lunch at Douglas Lodge (advance reservation required) or buy lunch outside the park (options:  Lobo's - east on MN-200 from the north entrance or Junction Café - just north on US-71 from the east entrance)

**10:00  Naturalist activities in the park

**12:00 - 1:00 North Country Welcome - Jacob Brower Visitor Center's Classroom.  Information on the North Country Trail, more info on day's hikes and activities, and volunteer opportunities.

**12:45 - 1:00  Organize for hikes & car shuttles

**1:00  Depart for Trailheads - hikes vary from over 6 miles to approximately 2 miles.  Shuttles will return hikers to the Visitors' Center by 5:00 pm

**2:00  Shorter afternoon family hikes/activities

**4:00  Afternoon hikes/activities - Meet at the Picnic Area near the Museum (below Wegman's Store parking)

**4:30 - 5:30  Social time with trail mix and drinks available at the Picnic Shelter

**5:30 - 6:30  Cookout dinner at the Picnic Shelter - catered by Douglas Lodge.  Available for $7 - menu:  bison burger and/or garden sandwich with a fruit tray, vegetable tray and chips.  Bring your lawn chair and/or a blanket for sitting outside.

**6:30 - 8:00 Free concert by Fran Gack at the Amphitheater/Picnic Shelter