When I mentioned my hiking goal to a co-worker she suggested Interstate State Park on the Minnesota side and suggested we explore the glacial potholes there. So, Jesse and I scheduled  a day trip over Memorial Day weekend to do so, but as the day neared, we sort of regretted our decision as it was going to be close to 100 that day and we don't deal well with heat. We'd also changed our day trip to an overnight camping trip so we felt fairly committed to this. We got up early, drove the hour there, and were hiking by 8:30. It was probably close to 80 degrees by that time, which is too hot for hiking in our opinion (50 - 65 is a good temp range). 

Hike #: 8

Trail: Interstate State Park

Location: Taylors Falls, MN

Trail Surface: Rocks, dirt

Date: 5/19/18

We wandered around the glacial potholes, climbing and exploring for awhile when Jesse turned to me and noted that I already looked like I was in the danger zone as my face was all red. My danger zone usually leads to a three day migraine so we both know the importance of steering clear of it. I drank some more water and poured some over the back of my head (which is more effective in cooling me down). I wasn't ready to give up so we followed the river trail ever so briefly and then headed back to the air conditioned truck after it was clear that Jesse and Riley were getting a bit crabby from the heat.

I'm a little embarrassed to count this as a hike as I don't think we quite met two miles, but Jesse assured me that this one counts due to the nature of the trail. We worked hard to get to this trail so we weren't about to let it not count. I would have liked to hike the entire loop before rating it as I'm certain Jesse and I would have rated it higher. I'd like to come back here some day, but I'm guessing we'll check out the Wisconsin side of this park the next time we head up that way. Either way, I like hiking along the St. Croix River.

Jo: ★★★

Jesse: ★★

Riley: ★★★★★

Check out my post about our day exploring the Taylors Falls area.