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Afton State Park

Barred Owl | Afton State Park, MN | View enlarged image

Out of all the parks we've ever been to, Afton State Park was definitely one of the most impressive. Every time we've visited it, it's seemed like we spotted a new species. The landscape is beautiful, the hiking trails are rugged yet well maintained, the park is almost never crowded, and the wildlife is plentiful. The trails are clearly marked and well planned, and there's a map at every crossroad. Even though it's within an hour's drive of most of the major Minneapolis-St. Paul suburbs, the park is far enough away from the cities that noise pollution from airports and highways isn't really an issue.

Afton's prairie restoration projects are really worth the hike. It's hard to believe that just a few centuries ago, our state was almost entirely covered in these sunny grasslands. Prairie restoration projects throughout Minnesota have played a major role in bringing back many of our state's native grassland species, including the once elusive Eastern Bluebird. We counted at least twelve Eastern Bluebirds during our visit in May of 2003. Trout Brook runs through the center of the park, and is a great place to spot migratory songbirds, tadpoles, and other wildlife. You'll also want to check out the hills along the Northern border of the park. The combination of tall trees and adjacent prairie and river provide an ideal habitat for Minnesota's migratory raptors, including Hawks, Turkey Vultures and Bald Eagles.

If you're planning to hike Afton, you'll definitely want to wear comfortable shoes with good treads, and a combination of bug repellent and dark clothing to throw off the mosquitos. Also, suntan lotion and a bottle of water aren't a bad idea if you're planning to hike across the restored prairie. Though can spot unique plants and wildlife five minutes from the parking lot, you'll want to spend at least three hours on the trails to see all that Afton has to offer.

Directions:

Park Location: 6959 Peller Ave South, Hastings, MN 55033

Take Highway 95 South from Interstate 94 (about 10 miles East of St Paul). Follow 95 South for 7 miles. Turn left on County Highway 20. The brown signs mark the entrance.

Distance from St. Paul, MN: Approximately 20 Miles

View Map

Park Maps

For park info, wildlife sightings, or camping reservations, contact the park office at:(651) 436-5391

Regulations:

Multimedia:

Eastern Kingbird | Afton State Park, MN White-tailed Deer | Afton State Park, MN Ring-necked Pheasant | (MPEG-1 Video) | Afton State Park, MN Wild Geranium | Afton State Park, MN Columbine | Afton State Park, MN Trout Brook | Afton State Park, MN   Trout Brook | Photo Credit: Robert Wicklund | Afton State Park, MN Prairie Restoration Project | Afton State Park, MN

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