Minnehaha Falls and Park - February 20th, 2010

Mounds of icy snow and an overcast sky would not deter hikers this day. No, it's the street names and parking restrictions that kept us from converging on the Godfrey House meeting site. Once we spotted each other we welcomed newcomer Sherry Berson who lives nearby and works at Trane in White Bear Lake.

Here's a photo taken above the Falls which shows the Minnehaha Creek trail we've hiked in the past.

This time we followed the west side of the creek before it meets the Mighty Mississippi - mostly single-file over ungroomed trails. Woe to us if we expect to walk/hike over perfect paths!
Along the way we spotted dogs being driving in cars for a Saturday morning romp in a nearby off-leash area; and also came upon this lovely and lonely totem marking a sacred area.

And here's the requisite wild-life photo of a bird apparently awaiting the April opening of Sea Salt.

Hikers, unlike birds, are choosy about lunch so the Town Talk Diner on Lake Street was picked over Chatterbox and nearby Cap'ns. It was observed to be a popular spot for people who like to eat.

Another stimulating mealtime together with some discussion about traveling to Taliesin near Madison in May. Phalen Park has been nominated for our March hiking location with details to follow.