Hiking has been around for centuries. What was once an act of survival for early humans became a leisurely pastime for the wealthy in the Romantic Era. Now fast forward to modern day. According to the EPA, the average American currently spends 90 percent of their time inside. How unfortunate! The EPA also reports that indoor air contains a higher concentration of pollutants than outdoor air, including mold, pet dandruff, pesticides, lead, and ozone. Plus, if you spend all your time indoors, you won’t get to enjoy the many health benefits of being in nature. Does reading all of that make you want to get some fresh air? Luckily, there are many parks and trails in Little Canada, Minnesota, for you to enjoy all year long.
Parks and Trails in Little Canada
Park and Trail Locations
Little Canada is a small suburb right outside of Minnesota’s twin cities, and despite its size, it offers an impressive selection of things to do. When the weather’s fair, why not enjoy an afternoon outside exploring? Here’s a roundup of the best parks and trails in Little Canada:
- Firefighters Historical Trail (325 Little Canada Road East): This historical trail features benches and interpretive displays that highlight the history of the Fire Department and honor past fire chiefs.
- Gervais Beach (2420 Edgerton Street): Looking for a great place to relax on a summer day? Gervais Beach is the perfect option. This park has plenty of picnic areas, a public swimming beach, play equipment, a concession building, a fishing pier, and on-site parking.
- Gervais Mill Park (2750 Edgerton Street): From prairie grasses to wetlands, Gervais Mill Park offers a beautiful place to admire nature. This 18-acre park includes 1,000 feet of wood-chipped trails, abundant wildlife, two fishing piers, a pond area, and on-site parking.
- Pioneer Park (2950 Centerville Road): If your grandkids are in town for the weekend, Pioneer Park offers a variety of ways to burn off extra energy. This park has four softball fields, two tennis courts, a basketball court, soccer fields, trails, a children’s play area, a picnic shelter, and a concession building.
- Spooner Park (350 Eli Road): Just like Pioneer Park, Spooner Park offers activities for all ages. It has five softball fields, a soccer field, two lighted tennis courts, a children’s play area, horseshoe courts, a sand volleyball court, a basketball court, and trails.
- Thunder Bay/Westwinds Park and Trail (Payne Avenue to Greenbrier Street): This linear park system features a safe hiking and biking trail, as well as several benches and play areas.
There are even more parks and trails in Little Canada; this list is just the beginning. Save this park map and trail map, and if you are feeling ambitious, make it a goal to visit each site.
Make a Park Shelter Reservation
Little Canada’s parks are great places to have birthday parties and family reunions. Just in case the weather decides not to cooperate, reserve a covered pavilion. You don’t need a permit to use these facilities, but if you do obtain a permit, your event will take precedence. Spooner Park has two shelters, and Pioneer Park has one shelter.
_____
Taking advantage of local parks and trails is a great way to stay healthy during your retirement. Are you looking for a place to live out your golden years near Little Canada, Minnesota? The Shores of Lake Phalen is an assisted living community that sits in a quiet, peaceful environment. Surrounded by a gorgeous wooded setting between two lakes, our residence offers the community and accessibility of apartment-style housing with the atmosphere and elegance of a resort.
Thanks to our team of dedicated staff members, residents enjoy a carefree lifestyle, without the common worries of running a household. We offer numerous health and safety amenities, fun events and activities, a friendly and accommodating staff, and so much more. Schedule a tour of the community to explore our spacious apartments, elegant dining room, and more. We look forward to hearing from you!