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Fort Snelling State Park: Between Historical Heritage and Contact with Nature
Fort Snelling State Park:Between Historical Heritage and Contact with Nature By Luisana Mendez Fort Snelling State Park is one of 75 state parks in the state of Minnesota and is the closest state park to the Twin Cities. Therefore, it is one of the state parks with the greatest urban influence, with an average of more than 400,000 annual visitors. The park is located in an area of great historical importance and retains a special natural charm. On the one hand, we can connect with the Historic Fort Snelling managed by the Minnesota Historical Society and on the other, with Fort Snelling State Park and its recreation spaces, operated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. I visited the Historic Fort in 2018 during a field trip for my English class at the International Institute of Minnesota. I think it’s a great piece of architecture and Minnesota history that we all should know about. I have visited the park on many occasions and in the different seasons of the year. Also, it was the first State Park I visited as part of the MN Hiking Club and Passport Club challenge. This place is one of my favorite destinations within the twin cities where I can deeply connect with nature and its secrets. About the park The park is located at the confluence of the two largest rivers in Minnesota: the Minnesota River and the Mississippi River, where Pike Island forms. The Dakotas gave it the name of Ha-Ha Mdo-Te, which translates as “union of two rivers”, considered by them to be the “center of the world”. Designated a State Park in 1961, the park is named after Historic Fort Snelling, which dates back to 1820. Due to its strategic location, this park is a fundamental piece for the conservation of open spaces and wildlife in the metropolitan area, as well as for the protection of the historical significance of this place. In addition, it is among the top tourist attractions in Minnesota. Most of the park is in the floodplain of the Minnesota River adjacent to the MN Valley National Wildlife Refuge. The riverside setting is home to large cottonwoods, silver maple, ash, and willow trees along the braided channels of the Minnesota River. The forest bottoms and marshes are home to an abundance of wildlife consisting of white-tailed deer, foxes, woodchucks, turkeys, and coyotes. Visitors may also encounter a fox snake which is almost identical in appearance to a rattlesnake, but is not venomous. napping, soft-shelled and painted turtles can be seen. This charming place offers the public various recreation spaces during all seasons of the year. Its visitors can enjoy trails for Hiking, snowshoeing, Cross Country skiing and Cycling. It also has lakes, beaches and rivers where we can do different water activities. In addition, it has facilities for picnics, playground and volleyball. A look to the past History has always seemed very interesting to me, as it helps us to better understand and connect with places, people and things. In addition, it helps us create a sense of belonging. However, an even more important feature is sharing the story with others, with that we help to create collective memory in society. I think that for those who have grown up in Minnesota or for those of us who have arrived here, knowing the history around “Snelling” should be a task to accomplish. Here I share what I have learned so far. For hundreds of years, before Europeans arrived, generations of Dakota lived in different villages along the Mississippi and Minnesota rivers. The population of “Mystic Lake” believed that the confluence of the rivers was “the place of origin and the center of the earth”. In the late 1600s, settlers began to visit the area, using the Minnesota and Mississippi rivers to control exploration, trade, and settlement. In 1805 Lieutenant Zebulon Pike met Mdewakanton on the island between the two rivers; known today as Pike Island, and negotiated the purchase of the land. The limestone buildings of the historic Fort Snelling complex were built between 1819 – 1825 and became one of a series of forts built west of Lake Michigan after the War of 1812. The fort was built to protect the area against possible British or Canadian raids. Similarly, with the purpose of controlling the exploration, trade, settlements in the waterways, as well as the development of this important region. It is named after Colonel Josiah Snelling, who was the officer in charge of its construction and its first commander. During the Civil War, the fort served an important role in the training of volunteers who wanted to join the Union Army. It was also used as a supply base for the Dakota Territory and as a training center for soldiers assigned to the Indian Campaigns, the Spanish-American War, and World Wars I and II. In the latter, functioning as a language school that fulfilled the role of Military Intelligence during the War. However, we cannot ignore the fact that after the American–Dakota War of 1862, more than 1,600 Dakota men, women, and children were forcibly confined to a camp in this area during the winter of 1862–1863, before being removed to Nebraska. During the winter, approximately 300 died due to malnutrition, disease, and exposure to low temperatures. In 1960 Fort Snelling became a National Historic Landmark. It was named a National Historic Landmark as it contains some of the oldest buildings in Minnesota, and in 1961, it became a state park. The Historic Fort functions as a museum depicting 10,000 years of history detailing the memories of native peoples, trade, soldiers and veterans, slaves, immigrants, and the changing landscape. It showcases 19th-century life and is home to a number of tanks and other vehicles, as well as firearms that have played a role in the country’s fight for freedom. For its part, the State Park has great spaces for a wide variety of outdoor activities throughout the year, including: hiking, biking, fishing, canoeing, picnicking and much more. More than a Historic Fortress Fort Snelling State Park is more than just a historic fortress. The park offers the opportunity to do a lot of outdoor activities. In summer, the park has 18 miles of easy and moderate intensity hiking trails. 5 miles of paved bike trails which connect to 51 miles of trails along the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway and Big Rivers Regional Trail, plus 10 miles of mountain bike trails that are located along the river to the side from Dakota County. However, other users choose to visit it for birding or Geocaching. The park also has two picnic areas located on the beach and on Picnic Island. Both are suitable for meetings and events, since they have picnic tables, grills and playground areas. The beach also has bathrooms, showers, changing rooms, and an area for volleyball. Two Picnic Shelters are located on Picnic Island, one open and one closed. Both accessible, with fire pit, grill and electricity, and require reservation. When winter arrives, the park offers 12 miles of groomed trails for Cross Country Skiing (Minnesota Ski Pass required) and 6 miles of multi-use trails: hiking and snowshoeing. For its part, the Visitor Center becomes a warming house during the winter. It has a fireplace and public restrooms. In Fort Snelling State Park we can find important water resources such as the Minnesota and Mississippi rivers, and lakes. River fishing or pier fishing is available on the north shore of Snelling Lake. We can also swim at the beach; added to the park in 1970 and located on the eastern shore of Snelling Lake. We can also go boating on the lake and the Minnesota River (Snelling Lake only allows electric motors), and do other water sports such as canoeing or kayaking. At the park office we can rent canoes, kayaks and snowshoes. GPS equipment and kits for birding or fishing are available to borrow at no cost. In conjunction, the park offers Naturalist Programs throughout the year. It is also important to note that this is a day use only park as there are no camping areas available. Don’t miss out on this! The Park Office is located at the entrance to it. There you can rent equipment and get any information you need. The Thomas C. Savage Visitor Center is located two miles from the park entrance, atop a small grassy rise and surrounded by forest. It opened to the public in 1997 and is named after the man who helped establish, develop, and protect the park’s historic and natural resources. Includes interpretive exhibits about the area’s history and resources, meeting rooms, restrooms, and a gift shop. Outside, there is a sheltered area with picnic tables at one end and an amphitheater at the other end of the building. Historic Park Overlook is located along Sibley Memorial Highway and from this point you can get a breathtaking view of Gun Club Lake, Quarry Island and the Minnesota River Valley, a landscape formed 10,000 years ago. The Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel is owned by the State of Minnesota and managed by the park. The chapel is available for weddings and funerals, and reservations are required. Mendota Bridge is a piece of infrastructure and development. Walking the trails in the park you can see the Fort Snelling-Mendota Bridge. In 1926 this was the longest continuous concrete arch bridge in the world. The Dakota Memorial is a monument honoring the sixteen hundred Dakota people, many of them women and children, who were imprisoned at Fort Snelling after the 1862 conflict between the United States and the Dakotas. Many of them died during the cold winter months during captivity. The cornerstone in the center of the monument was placed there by Amos Owen of the Prairie Island Indian Community during a ceremony in 1987. Be respectful of this sacred place. Coldwater Spring, for hundreds of years the Dakotas have considered it a sacred place and of spiritual importance. It was also the site of US Army Camp Coldwater for the troops who built Fort Snelling. The spring supplied the fort with water, first through water wagons and later through a stone water tower and underground pipes. The Coldwater area once housed blacksmith shops, establishments, trading posts, a hotel, and a steamboat wharf, but nearly all of those buildings were gone by the time of the American Civil War. Coldwater Spring is located on the west bluffs of the Mississippi River. The natural spring waters flow continuously throughout the year and will remain unfrozen in the winter months. The spring is a protected historical site. Let me know if you know this park and what your experience has been there. Join the adventure! References Fort Snelling State Park – Mississippi National River and Recreation Area. (2021). Retrieved from National Park Service: https://www.nps.gov/places/fort-snelling-state-park.htm Fort Snelling State Park in Minnesota. (2022). Retrieved from Minnesota State Parks: https://stateparks.com/fort_snelling_state_park_in_minnesota.html Friends of Fort Snelling. (2021). Retrieved from Fort Snelling : https://www.fortsnelling.org/ Historic Fort Snelling. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.mnhs.org/fortsnelling Historic Fort Snelling – Places to Go. (2021). Retrieved from National Park Service: https://www.nps.gov/miss/planyourvisit/histfort.htm Meyer, R. W. (1991). Everyone´s County Estate: A History of Minnesota’s State Parks. Minnesota Historical Society Press: Saint Paul. Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. (2022). Retrieved from Fort Snelling State Park: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/park.html?id=spk00154#homepage Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge – Places to Go. (2020). Retrieved from National Park Service: https://www.nps.gov/miss/planyourvisit/minnvall.htm Morgan, S. H. (1993). Birth, Death, and Reincarnation: The Story of Fort Snelling and Its State Park. In Ramsey County History, Vol. 28, No. 2 (pp. 4-12, 27).The US-Dakota War of 1862. (n.d.). Retrieved from Historic Fort Snelling: https://www.mnhs.org/fortsnelling/learn/us-dakota-war
Don’t call it Purpose – Call it Challenge
Don’t call it Purpose – Call it Challenge By Luisana Mendez The year 2022 is beginning. It is common for many people to spend the last and first days of a year reflecting, to look back, to visualize what they want to achieve in the new year and in the future. Many of us begin to write down our resolutions or purposes. Well, today I tell you, “don’t call it Purpose, call it Challenge”. In my time of reflection I came to the conclusion that “purposes” are all those things that we want to achieve and that we have the firm intention of achieving, but many times they only remain intentions. In general, we tend to wander and give up easily. For its part, the establishment of a “challenge” allows us to visualize the objective with greater precision and, in addition, supposes a stimulus and a challenge, not a competition. Last year I made the decision to start a challenge and today, I want to share with you a bit of my Journey doing the #52HikeChallenge2021. This challenge marked a before, a during and an after in my life. 2020, year prior to the Challenge In March 2020 I faced a part of me that I did not know. I recognized myself as fragile and vulnerable. The COVID-19 pandemic brought with it uncertainty, ignorance, fears, and it developed into my “anxiety.” Like many of you, I too had to deal with loss, difficult days, days with emotional breakdowns, stress, and even depression. However, I found that when I walked outside, my attitude, emotions, and thoughts improved. I discovered the benefits of being outdoors, breathing fresh air, and other ways to connect with myself and with nature. With each walk, I could feel how my body, mind, and spirit connected and awakened in me the motivation and curiosity for what I was doing. I didn’t want to stop walking, being outside and seeing new places. Time passed and I kept walking. Sometimes I went alone and other times with a companion. It was the most anticipated moment of my days. I remember saying to my friends “I want to be a professional hiker” and I laughed, because it was my passion for something new talking about something I was completely unaware of. However, I took on the task of researching #hiking and the #outdoor world, and learned that it really is a sport. Hiking has many levels of difficulty, it can be perfectly combined with other activities, it does not require complicated equipment, there are no rules about age and physical condition to practice it, and the benefits can be endless. In my search I found the #52HikeChallenge and signed up to challenge myself to try something different. This has been one of the best decisions of my life. 2021, year of the Challenge When 2021 started I had a plan. I would be a more outdoor person and would do more #hiking. I had a challenge to meet, to walk at least once a week for a whole year. The first few days of January I was on vacation and I had the opportunity to do my first Hikes in Arizona and Texas, it was really exciting and a great way to start the challenge. When I got back to Minnesota I found myself in the middle of winter. I felt a bit overwhelmed by the low temperatures. I wanted and wished with all my soul to be able to be outside. This motivated me to go deeper into learning the practice of hiking. I learned about how to hike in the different seasons of the year, to recreate responsibly, to navigate the trails and about the essential things that I should take on the hikes. I also researched the different park systems in Minnesota and even discovered new challenges that I also began to participate in. I think that the key in everything we set out to do in life is motivation. I was really excited about my challenge. I told my friends and family about what I was doing. This allowed them to join the adventure and for me to feel their unconditional support. Each walk meant a great achievement in my life and I shared it on social media to motivate and spread it to others. My attitude, my way of thinking and visualizing things were positively transformed. Each walk contributed to my physical, mental and emotional health. The experience of being outdoors gave me clarity about my life purpose, my dreams and the goals I wanted to achieve. It took me to great levels of concentration, productivity and creativity. I started writing my journey about the experience I was having on the hikes. I decided to start a bilingual blog to share what I was experiencing. I know that my English is not perfect, but this decision represents a new challenge in my life. Thus materializing that idea that had been around in my head for several years called Huellas Latinas. I walked whenever I could, I went to different parks, alone or with friends. My social media posts started to echo. I had the opportunity to design and create the #MujerLatina100Millas challenge in which more than 60 women from Mujeres Latinas Unidas MN participated, as part of my volunteering there. I started working with other organizations and leading group walks. During the spring and summer, I led and shared walks with Latino families, women, and youth. You can’t imagine how many great people I met and how much I learned from them. During the journey I was feeling interested in other outdoor activities. So I started experimenting with different disciplines in search of developing new skills. I did snowshoeing, cross country skiing, bouldering, birding and paddleboarding for the first time, to mention a few examples. On August 28, 2021, it was time to do my last Hike of the challenge and it was the most special hike of all. As if by magic, it turned out that this last hike coincided with the visit of my parents, who traveled from Venezuela to Minnesota for the first time. I had almost 2 years without seeing my mom and almost 4 years without seeing my dad. Completing this challenge in their company was something very special and wonderful. In addition, there was also my family, very close friends and even my little friend Ben Afquack (the duck in the photo), who joined in celebrating this achievement with me. I completed the challenge in 8 months. I did 52 Hikes, walked 190.9 miles, visited over 30 different parks, and met hundreds of wonderful people. After completing the 52 Hike Challenge After completing the challenge I understood the importance of challenging ourselves to discover and achieve new things. In addition, it became clear to me that when we start something with such passion, we also give ourselves the opportunity for the experience to be transformative. I feel very proud of myself for having completed the challenge and I am infinitely grateful to my family, my friends and my community for having been part of this achievement. However, beyond reaching the goal, the most significant thing for me was enjoying the process. I lived it with all my heart, I learned many things, I shared it with a large number of people and finally, it became my lifestyle. I kept walking throughout the year 2021. I did 81 Hikes, walked a total of 285.6 miles and visited more than 75 different parks. I organized the #HuellasLatinasHikingClub to continue doing group hikes with the Latino community and friends. Also, I ended the year with a lot of excitement and expectations of new projects for 2022. New Challenges for 2022 Of course! I am so excited and motivated that this year I am also participating in the #52HikeChallenge2022. I will continue to be active with my projects, my bilingual outdoor blog and #HuellasLatinasHikingClub. I try to lead a more outdoor lifestyle, exploring new activities and also completing the MN Hiking Club and MN Passport Club. I also have other more personal, professional and family challenges that I am sure I will achieve. One of them will be the beginning of “Vida sin Tapujos,” a radio show & Podcast with my friend Tania. And the other will be reading 100 books this year #100BooksChallenge. We all lead a different style and pace of life. Setting ourselves challenges should be a stimulation and not a problem. It is not a competition, but a path that you live and enjoy while you grow and learn. Perhaps there are more interesting or important challenges. However, I am convinced that this challenge, no matter how simple it may seem, can transform our lives “one step at a time”. If you want to try something different and do a challenge, I 100% recommend the #52HikeChallenge. Dare, you may discover a passion for this or other outdoor activities. Put a number, a date, make a plan and go for it. Recomendaciones: 52 Hike Challenge Huellas Latinas Hiking Club MN Hiking Club y Passport Club Guidance for Outdoor Recreation and Facilities Comment below what you thought of this article or if you have any questions Join the adventure! Dare to turn something ordinary into extraordinary.
Winter Hiking: possible, safe and fun
Winter Hiking: possible, safe and fun By Luisana Mendez Winter came quickly, but that doesn’t mean we should stay indoors. Hiking is an activity for all seasons of the year. Do not be overwhelmed by low temperatures or lack of sunlight and remember that we are not alone in this. I am not the most experienced person when it comes to winter, but here are some recommendations that have worked for me. From now on, I want to invite you to be prepared to continue enjoying the different parks and outdoor activities during the winter safely. General Recommendations to do Winter Hiking Safely Hiking in the winter can also be a lot of fun. In addition, you can combine it with other activities such as Snowshoes and even Cross Country Skiing. Thinking about the temperatures of Minnesota and its geography, you can take into account the following safety recommendations: Now let’s delve a little more about how to dress with layers and the best clothes to stay warm and dry while we go on winter hikes among other no less important recommendations. The right clothes and layers for Winter Hikes Hiking during the winter requires you to be warm, therefore, it is necessary that you wear the right layers of clothing for you. Keep in mind that each body is different. I mention this because the natural production of heat during movement or resistance to cold is going to be different for everyone. I, for example, “am always cold.” Returning to the topic, when we begin to walk our body produces heat and we may want to shed some layers of clothing. However, if we experience cold wind gusts, temperature drops, or an unexpected snowfall, we may want to bundle up again. Not all clothing works well in all thermal conditions. So I want to invite you to learn a little about layers and fabrics that can help us keep dry if we plan to do Hiking during the winter. Trust me, this will make a huge difference. Layers: Wear a base, middle, and outer layer. Keep your ears, hands, and feet warm: Ears, hands, and feet are most susceptible to frostbite. Keep your hands warm and dry by wearing gloves or mitts. Wear lined fleece socks and pack an extra pair in case yours get wet. Protect your ears by wearing hats, earmuffs, or headbands. Also, don’t forget to keep your neck warm. – Experts assure that mittens will keep your hands warmer than gloves since the fingers can heat each other. Consider an extra change of clothes: It never hurts to keep an extra change of clothes in the car in case you get wet during your walk. Remember that it is important that you have warm and dry clothing at all times. Additional equipment for your adventures in the snow and cold temperatures For any hike at any time of the year, always carry the *10 ESSENTIAL with you. In addition to those essentials, I recommend reviewing your list and considering the following items you might need during winter hikes. Backpack: Winter hikes require more equipment and you will probably need space to store layers, we recommend using a backpack of 30L or more. Navigation: Before leaving, I recommend downloading the trail map. You can use apps like AllTrails Pro and Avenza Maps. Keep in mind that phones and technology devices download faster in winter. It is important that you keep them in your chest pockets and that you consider carrying external chargers. There are also other devices for navigating the trails like the Garmin inReach GPS and the Garmin fenix watch. Footwear: Wear waterproof hiking boots for winter and consider wearing crampons. This will help keep you balanced and steady in the snow, as well as providing security and avoiding falling on frozen roads. Eyewear: Even in winter, sunny days are still strong. In fact, snow is the most reflective natural surface on the planet. Therefore, when the sun reflects off the snow, you risk snow blindness. Protect your eyes by wearing “glacier glasses” or polarized sunglasses. Skin Protector: Cold and wind can be brutal to skin. Avoid wind burns by moisturizing your skin and lips. Trekking poles: Travel the trail with more ease and stability with trekking poles. Look for trekking poles that have snow baskets. Hand and foot warmers: Always carry a pair of hand and foot warmers with you, these can be a great help for colder days and unexpected situations. Hydration and Nutrition when doing Winter Hiking For any hike it is important that you include enough food and water. Even during winter: Drink water before you are thirsty: Walking in the winter takes more effort and we may not realize that we are dehydrated when we are cold. So do not forget to drink water and stay hydrated as much, as in any other hike. Remember, hot drinks also help you hydrate. Eat frequently: Depending on how long you will be walking, you may consider bringing a snack. Choose snacks that are full of protein, carbohydrates, and fat to help keep you energized. Prevent Freezing: Use insulated drinking containers such as Nalgene, Hydro Flask, Stanley Thermos. Prevent the water from freezing by bringing it close to your body. Store your water bottle upside down, as ice forms on top first. Before the hike, cut bite-size chunks of snacks so your energy bars don’t turn into frozen bricks. Do you dare to do Winter Hiking? Remember that we are not alone. Huellas Latinas Hiking Club is still active and we are doing winter hikes, at night and soon, we will be offering other winter activities in the different parks of Minnesota. Comment below what you think of this article and join the adventure. References
Hiking Club and Passport Club to explore Minnesota State Parks
Hiking Club and Passport Club to explore Minnesota State Parks By Luisana Mendez Minnesota is one of the states with the greatest natural wealth, including having more than 10,000 lakes throughout its surface. Something very obvious to which we are usually indifferent, is the fact that these lands are full of great stories to discover. A fun strategy to learn more about Minnesota and its stories is to tour the State Parks. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources manages the 75 state parks and recreation areas. Each of these parks offers endless opportunities for you to enjoy different outdoor activities while discovering the secrets that their lands keep. Follow the route of adventure! When I decided to transition to a more outdoor lifestyle, I started by taking on different hiking challenges that helped me stay motivated while learning and developing my skills. It is well known that, “the difficult thing is not to start doing something new, but to stay motivated until it becomes your lifestyle.” My journey began by subscribing to #52HikeChallenge2021. Then I began to explore which parks I could visit to complete my challenge and along that way I discovered that Minnesota state parks offer the Hiking Club and Passport Club. The Hiking Club encourages you to visit 68 State Parks and recreation areas throughout the State of Minnesota. These parks are full of beautiful landscapes, waterfalls, forests, and prairies. Depending on the season of the year in which you visit them, you will be able to observe a particular type of landscape, flora and wildlife. To participate in the Hiking Club you only have to acquire the book that lists the parks and describes the trails you must take. Each park has several Trails, but you will find a Trail specially marked as the Hiking Club Trail that you must follow. When you go through the Hiking Club Trail you will find a password that is unique for each park. You will write that password at the end of the book where there is a box to keep the record together with the information about the park and the distance walked. Every time you complete 25 miles, you can present your book to a state park office to get your reward. For its part, the Passport Club invites you to visit all 75 Minnesota State Parks and recreation areas. To participate you have to purchase the Passport Club kit, which comes with a journey so that you can keep track of your experience in each of the parks. When you decide to visit a state park, you just have to stop at the information office, which is usually at the entrance of each park, and get a stamp in your passport. If the office is closed, you can find the stamp at the station or information kiosk. Every time you complete 25 stamps you can get rewards. Participating in the Minnesota Hiking Club and Passport Club has been a lot of fun for me and for those who have accompanied me on this adventure. In addition to visiting a different park, each time I have had the opportunity to learn about the history of the lands where the park is located. I have also been able to enjoy beautiful views, landscapes and a variety of climates. Learn about flora, wildlife, and discover beautiful natural treasures. So far I have visited 15 state parks and walked 41.7 miles in them. Tips before visiting a State Park Before visiting a state park, I recommend you review these tips to make your adventure unforgettable. Plan your visit and be flexible: before you leave home, review the park information, plan to buy the parking pass, check visitor alerts and schedules, download the map of the park and its trails, check for special activities. Above all, check the state of the weather. Take your time to explore new destinations. Some parks tend to be busier than others and the weather can influence your walk depending on the time of year. Be prepared with the essentials: check the distance to be covered, the level of difficulty, the conditions of the trail, and the time it will take to hike. Always stay hydrated, consider bringing a meal or snack, and wear comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing. If you use electronic devices to navigate the park trails, consider bringing external chargers. Recreate responsibly and without a trace: don’t go off the trail, or leave your trash in the area. Do not feed or go near wildlife. Yield to horses and cyclists. Clean up after your pets. Also, if you decide to listen to music, do it with headphones. Let’s help conserve these natural places for the future. If you decide to join the Minnesota Hiking Club and Passport Club, you can purchase the book and kit at any of the state park stores or by calling Gooseberry Falls State Park directly at 218-595-7101. When you visit a state park you have to pay for parking. To avoid this, I recommend acquiring a Vehicle Permit for the whole year. It costs as little as $ 35 and you can buy it online. Programs to develop outdoor skills We know that going outside for the first time can be a bit intimidating for some people, but I assure you that once you try it you will no longer be able to stop. For that reason I want to motivate you to go out and explore and discover what types of activities you like, and little by little, you will learn and grow in what makes you happy. If you want to discover new places, meet new people and enjoy great adventures, I invite you to join Huellas Latinas Hiking Club. We go out in groups every week and frequently, we organize other activities such as paddle boarding, bird watching, cross country skiing, snow shoes, and others. This is not all, I also want to recommend the “I Can” program of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. This program teaches beginners of all ages how to do outdoor activities such as: camping, fishing, canoeing, and much more. Additionally, keep track of local parks in your cities and counties. Most of them also offer different programs and opportunities for recreation for children and families. “The best remedy for those who are afraid, lonely or unhappy is to go outside, somewhere where they can be quiet, alone with the heavens, nature and God. Because only then does one feel that all is as it should be and that God wishes to see people happy, amidst the simple beauty of nature. I firmly believe that nature brings solace in all troubles.” – Anne Frank. Are you joining the adventure? – Don’t forget to leave me your comments and questions below. I will be happy to read you.
Cycle Paths: Trend of Sustainable Urban Mobility
Cycle Paths: Trend of Sustainable Urban Mobility By Luisana Mendez Cycle Paths have become a trend, and bicycles have been the main protagonist as an alternative means of transport. Therefore, the development of Special Plans for the transformation and redistribution of road infrastructure is one of the great challenges in Urban Planning faced by cities around the world that seek to strengthen sustainable urban mobility. Myths and Facts about Cycle Paths 7 Reasons to support the Development of Bike Paths in the City They are friendly to the environment: many of us are clear that the use of the bicycle translates into a reduction in the emission of CO2. They have a positive impact on health: cycling for 20 minutes is proven to improve health and reduce the risk of disease. The level of crime decreases: with more people occupying the streets we can count on more eyes that can witness crimes. Trade increases: cyclists consume more products than motorists since they are in contact with their immediate environment. Better public spaces: A street with fewer cars gives people more space for recreational activities. Accessible transportation: it is no secret that a bicycle is less expensive than a car and, furthermore, a bicycle does not require a constant investment to be able to use it. Increase productivity: Studies have shown that people who pedal to work are more alert and 15% more productive. In addition, with the use of bicycles travel times are reduced. Let’s take action in the planning of bike paths. In any planning process, citizens are an essential component. Therefore, cities offer different spaces and strategies to promote citizen participation in these processes. An example of this is the present update of the Bicycle Plan of the city of Saint Paul, Minnesota. The city of Saint Paul has a bicycle plan that dates back to 2015. This plan helped Saint Paul increase the bike path network from 153 miles in 2015 to 207 miles in 2020. However, the plan needs to be updated to determine where in the city, the lanes and bike paths should be, how they should look and function. The development of this plan will allow the city to plan for the future, creating a city that is safe, equitable, healthy, and adapts to change. The City of Saint Paul wants to hear your ideas for improving the use of bicycles in the city. You can be the first to build your city, you can get involved and be part of the process of updating the plan through this short survey. In addition, you can share this information so that more people join this process of planning future bike paths in the city of Saint Paul. Let’s ride a bike Minnesota is shaping up to be a promoter of outdoor activities. Among the most popular is “riding a bicycle.” Dan Gunderson; MPR News reporter says Minnesota has more miles of bike trails than any other in the U.S. Not only do bicyclists have a vast network of bike paths to ride to their various destinations, they also count with a whole platform so that this activity is carried out in a safe and fun way. In Minnesota we can find hundreds of miles of bike lanes and lanes, parking lots, and bike maintenance stations. In addition, we have Nice Ride Minnesota which has more than 3,000 bicycles in more than 400 stations in operation around Minneapolis and as a complement, more than 4,000 miles of trails in the parks inside and outside the Twin Cities for cyclists of all levels to explore the state. Personally, I am not yet an active bike person. But I want to share with you that it was precisely to see people riding bikes around the lake; when I first visited Minnesota in 2012, it made me fall in love with this place, and made me wish “someday” I could do the same. 6 years later, I moved to Minnesota and was able to fulfill that wish. As an urban planner, I am aware of the positive impact that mobility by bicycle brings to the city and its residents. So in the near future I plan to be part of the cycling community and once again, I invite you to join and participate in the update plan that the city of Saint Paul is carrying out. I am sure that we will be able to enjoy new bike paths together in the coming years. If you like to ride a bike, there are no more excuses. In Minnesota we also have organizations and groups that promote cycling and activities. Here are some names for you to explore according to your interests. The most fun thing about riding a bike is that you can do it alone or in a group. In addition, this activity has managed to bring people together within the same community and also connect communities of different cultures. Let me know in the comments your ideas and motivations to ride a bike. ¡Have fun! References Blog – Ciudades Sostenibles. (2016). Retrieved from Inter-American Development Bank: https://blogs.iadb.org/ciudades-sostenibles/es/ciclovias/ Saint Paul Bicycle Plan . (2015). Retrieved from City of Saint Paul: https://www.stpaul.gov/departments/public-works/transportation-and-transit/bike-saint-paul/saint-paul-bicycle-plan
5 Ideas to end the summer in a memorable way
5 Ideas to end the summer in a memorable way By Luisana Mendez We don’t need to add justifications to make our days memorable. Living the “here and now” is a life lesson that many of us have learned along the way. Take action and go after what makes you vibrate with joy. Here are 5 ideas for you to include on your list and end this summer in a memorable way. 1. Enjoy ice cream Ice cream lovers know that there are no limits on this topic. Enjoying a delicious ice cream is more than refreshing. Ice cream improves our mood, takes us back to childhood, fills our spirits with joy, and of course, eating ice cream is part of the fun. For me, eating ice cream after walking a couple of miles is my best reward. In addition, I am excited to know different places, try the variety of flavors and with it, support the local economy. Minnesota has more than 40 popular local ice cream parlors across the state that you should visit. Here is a checklist with 22 ice cream parlors that are less than 1 hour away (approximately) from the Twin Cities. 2. Go for some fresh air Find out what your favorite activity is, from playing a team sport, riding a bike, or just going for a walk. Doing any activity outdoors brings important benefits to physical, mental and emotional health. I discovered great benefits in hiking. This activity has taken me to different parks around the state, has encouraged me to develop new skills, and has also motivated me to share the experience with friends, family, and members of the Latino community. I started participating in various challenges such as: #52HikeChallenge2021 (completed) #RetoMujerLatina100Millas (completed) #MNHikingClub (29.5 / 175 miles) and the #MNPassportClub (12/75 State Parks). I have also created a Hiking club to continue sharing this activity and provide support to those who want to start and / or learn hiking. If you want to join, I invite you to participate in Huellas Latinas Hiking Club. 3. Take a Road Trip Whether by car or motorcycle, go somewhere different with friends. Enjoy the scenery, the time riding and the excitement of discovering a new experience. It does not matter if it is a short or long trip. The simple gesture of leaving home, spending a couple of hours on the road and visiting a different place are enough to feel the thrill of adventure. Minnesota has many beautiful places that you can visit, including many State Parks that you can camp in if that is your intention. In my case, this summer I had the opportunity to do a Road Trip to Crosby Minnesota, during 4 days I visited many places including 6 State Parks. 4. Try something new I am passionate about adventure and I always like to learn new things. Since the beginning of the year I have been trying new things for the simple fact of living the experience, adapting to the activities that we can do according to the season of the year, and also to develop new skills. From hiking challenges, snowshoes, Cross Country Sky, bouldering, birding to paddle boarding, I have done them for the first time and they have filled me with a lot of emotion. Some of these activities have become my complement when I am hiking or visiting a park. However, one of the most fun experiences has been practicing Paddle Board. I have a super easy to transport inflatable Swonder Sup board that I now take everywhere. You never know how perfect the day can be to jump into the water for a little while. It is really fun! 5. Immerse yourself in your purpose and enjoy the experience It is not about a competition, but about consciously enjoying everything that you like and that makes you vibrate. Also, you can add great meaning to it if you have the opportunity to share your experiences with others. The result will be wonderful. Set a purpose and start your journey. Nothing has to be perfectly planned, just start, enjoy and see where things take you. I just completed my 52 Hike Challenge. After walking alone, with friends and members of the Latino community throughout the year. I never thought that the last hike of the challenge would be in the company of my parents who came to visit me from Venezuela, my family and friends. It was really wonderful! Have you had a memorable summer? – Let me know what things have been on your list.
Slot Canyon – A hidden place at Crosby Farm Regional Park
Slot Canyon – A hidden place at Crosby Farm Regional Park By Luisana Méndez One of my favorite parks in Saint Paul, Minnesota is Crosby Farm Regional Park. I got to know this park in the summer of 2020. I was immediately amazed by the silence and majesty of the forest with immense oak trees that convey peace and wisdom. Since then, I have visited this park a great number of times, and on each visit I have had a completely different experience. About the park Crosby Farm Regional Park is named after a historic farm owned by Thomas and Emma Crosby; English immigrants who came to cultivate the area in 1858. The farm continued to be operated by several families until St. Paul Port Authority acquired the property in the 1960s and leased it to Saint Paul Parks. The park is located in a river plain forest along the Mississippi River and Shepard Rd. Along with the adjoining Hidden Falls Regional Park, they make up the largest wilderness park in the Saint Paul park system. In addition, it is an important component that protects the biodiversity of the Mississippi River corridor through the Twin Cities. The main entrance is on Shephard Rd with Gannon Rd and another smaller parking lot is on Shephard Rd near I-35E. The park offers 6.7 miles (10.8 km) of numerous trails for walking, running, and biking. It is also a destination for bird watching during the spring and fall migratory periods. The trails lead explorers through different types of landscapes. Forest, prairie, Mississippi River shoreline, pier between Upper and Crosby Lakes, and a winding path on the slope between Shepard Rd and the lakes. And if that wasn’t enough, this park hides a little treasure called “Slot Canyon” among the limestone and sandstone outcrops that line the north side of the park. In search of Slot Canyon I heard about Slot Canyon in a Hiking group. Based on the reactions and comments I could tell that few people seem to know it, including the locals. My curiosity grew and every time I went to the park I took a different route trying to find it. I admit it, uncovering Slot Canyon was not easy. However, on the least expected day, I found it. Visit Crosby Farm Regional Park with a group of friends to do my #Hike5 of my 52 Hike Challenge 2021. It was a beautiful winter day in January. Although it was very cold, we were excited to be able to spend some time together sharing one of my adventures. We took the Upper and Crosby Lakes North Trail. It is a one-lane path, and depending on the time of year, various obstacles such as fallen trees can be encountered which, in turn, become a natural playground for children. This time, part of the road was completely icy and very slippery. On this visit I discovered the Slot Canyon. As we walked I saw a small stream (depending on the time of year it could be dry) that came out in the middle of a groove between the rocks of the slope. I began to follow the path of water to explore where it came from. I walked up the completely frozen creek bed to the mouth of the Canyon. This is how I got to the place where a waterfall of completely frozen water approximately 767 feet high. Very attractive for those who practice ice climbing. This place is hidden in the park, and does not appear on any map. If you find it, slot canyon is definitely worth a closer look. The proportion between the height of the cliff and the mouth of the canyon impresses the eye. Even the temperature can feel different. When you touch the surrounding walls, you can feel the porosity of the limestone rocks and the humidity of the place. Listening to the sound of the water that melts as it falls and hits the floor in the middle of the great silence of nowhere, transmits peace. Finding the Slot Canyon was without a doubt the best of this adventure. However, it is worth noting that the connection that is achieved with nature is inexplicable and as I said before, in each visit to this park, I always discover its wonders and enjoy a completely different adventure. Other Adventures Zarah the Cave Woman – in winter I also enjoyed the adventure of finding Zarah at Crosby Farm Regional Park. Zarah is the partner of Zug Zug, both the creations of Minneapolis artist Zach Schumack and his art collective Leonic, who set each sculpture in a different park in Minnesota. In the forest: On a more recent visit, we needed 5 young people with their arms fully extended to hug one of the trees. Get your calculations on the diameter these mighty oaks could have. Let me know if you know this place and what your experience has been there. Also, if you don’t know Slot Canyon, would you like to go on an adventure with me to get to know it? References
Huellas Latinas – A new adventure
Huellas Latinas – A new adventure By Luisana Mendez Hi everyone! A few years ago I discovered my passion for the city and that is why I became an Urban Planner. Since then, I have not stopped talking about the city and all the elements that make it up: its streets, the transport system, public spaces, natural spaces, monuments, etc. As an Urban Planner and also a Civil Engineer, I always wonder about the history of the places I visit: how were they born? Why are they there? which represent? These are some of my initial questions. It fills me with fascination to see the buildings and the interaction they have with the most important element in any city, people. In 2016, together with a group of friends and colleagues, we started a project in Venezuela called Jueves de Ciudad. We did various activities to talk about urban and sustainable mobility, risk management, public spaces, etc. Then the project became a radio and television program. It was a window to promote art and culture, talk about history and show the most relevant infrastructures of the city where I grew up – El Vigía. Today I live in Minnesota, US. Since I arrived I have not stopped visiting every corner of the state trying to get to know it in depth. I practice Hiking and I am doing several challenges with this activity: #52HikeChallenge2021 – #RetoMujerLatina100millas, Passport Club MN and Hiking Club MN. By doing my path to meet these challenges, I am getting to know Minnesota state, regional and local parks. The more I know, the more I am motivated and excited to continue knowing and exploring new places. and why not, perhaps take on new challenges. “Don’t just live in the City, be part of it” When we are immigrants we go through many stages, from culture shock to learning a new language (in my case English), among other things no less important. While we walk that path, very different and proper for each one, our heart constantly seeks to “belong.” After living in Minnesota for more than 3 years, I can proudly say that I have developed my sense of belonging. Although I am still on my own path, today I feel part of this place, I love it, and I am very grateful for all the opportunities it has given me. If you are living your own battle of belonging, the best advice I can give you is, “don’t just live in the city, be part of it.” Get to know your neighborhood, the parks around you, make new friends, open your heart to a new culture, but, above all, give yourself the opportunity to live new experiences that are meaningful, that allow you to grow, develop and transcend wherever you are. A new adventure I have always kept in mind that, in our journey through the city, we build history and leave indelible footprints on the collective memory of the present and the future. “The legacy that I want to leave is like a footprint that shows that I have walked with courage and great happiness”. Huellas Latinas has become my new adventure. A space where I will be sharing information about the city, history, my experiences and points of view, under a Human and Sustainable approach. If you are looking to learn more about the elements of cities, outdoor activities, and learn a little about local history, inside and outside Minnesota, this blog is for you. I will teach you to live the city with your senses. And hopefully, I hope my lines motivate you to discover new places and to live new adventures. Warning! I’m not the most experienced blogger, so I hope it gets better and more interesting over time. Be nice! “We all leave footprints on our journey through life; make sure yours are worth pursuing” – Bob Teague. Thank you for joining and living this experience with me! – Follow me on my social media and leave me a comment, greeting, or any question you have. I will be happy to read you.
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