According to several health studies, time outdoors can significantly contribute to improving your mental and physical health. If you are in or near Rochester, MN, there are plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Here are some of the best ones.
5 Great Outdoor Activities Near Rochester, MN
1. Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo
Nestled in 572 acres of nature, Oxbow Park features hiking and walking trails, campgrounds, and picnic areas. It is also home to Zollman Zoo, which hosts over 30 native Minessottan species including snakes, bison, and black bears. Inside the zoo, you can also find an indoor nature center, where you can learn more about local wildlife. Oxbow Park is located 20 minutes away from Rochester, in the neighboring town of Byron.
2. Silver Lake Park
Just outside of Rochester you can find this beautiful park, resting on the shores of Silver Lake. Here, you can enjoy plenty of activities such as biking, rollerblading, paddling, and canoeing. There’s a playground available for the youngest ones, a swimming pool, and plenty of picnic areas to have a fantastic family lunch. Tandem bikes, canoes, and paddleboards are available for rent on-site.
3. Sekapp Orchard
With over 100 varieties of fruits and vegetables, Sekapp Orchard is the largest fresh produce grower in the Rochester area. Depending on the season, you can pick your own apples, or visit the pumpkin patch and choose a few to carve before Halloween. The place also features wagon rides and a corn maze. And before you leave, don’t forget to visit the salesroom to get some fresh produce, honey, and preserves.
4. Cascade Lake Park
Spend a beautiful day swimming or just sunbathing at Cascade Lake Park’s beach. Children can enjoy the playground, and there’s plenty of space to set up a nice picnic. The park also features a paved trail and open playfields. You can also relax and enjoy the view from the comfortable Adirondack-style chairs set in the waterscape space. It’s open every day, during daylight hours.
5. Quarry Hill Park
Quarry Hill Park has something for everybody: a historical site, tennis and basketball courts, trails, a softball field, and a sheltered picnic area. During the winter, you can also enjoy cross-country skiing. It’s also home to Quarry Hill Nature Center, where you can learn more about endangered wildlife and conservation efforts.
The most exciting adventure at Quarry Hill Park is to go fossil hunting. You can find brachiopod, cephalopod, and gastropod fossils while you learn more about the Earth’s amazing history.
6. Art4 Trails
Ride your bike around these fantastic trails, full of art pieces from local artists. The trail features 16 temporary and 13 permanent sculptures, and the collection keeps growing every year.
A new (or new to you) car is the best way to safely visit all these exciting places. Give us a call at Rochester Toyota, and let us help you find one that fits everything you need for every adventure. Our friendly staff can guide you through our different models and help you understand financing options.
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