BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//Sally Manzara Interpretive Nature Center - ECPv6.15.17.1//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-WR-CALNAME:Sally Manzara Interpretive Nature Center
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Sally Manzara Interpretive Nature Center
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:America/Chicago
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20250309T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20251102T070000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20260308T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20261101T070000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20270314T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20271107T070000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260408T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260408T110000
DTSTAMP:20260404T130712
CREATED:20260213T170616Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260213T170616Z
UID:10000250-1775640600-1775646000@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Downstairs Reserved
DESCRIPTION:Sunfish Lake Park Hiking Guide by John Neitge\, 2022 – Our Excellent Friend and late Board Member John Neitge left us his personal guide as part of his legacy – enjoy an excellent hike!  Sunfish Lake Park has about 5 miles each of hiking/multipurpose trails and mountain bike trails. By City Council resolution\, walking on the bike trails  and hiking on the bike trails is prohibited for safety reasons. The nine bike/hike trail intersections are well marked\, but please be observant at these  points\, bikes can travel fast and quietly\, and curves and  vegetation obscure the views. Earth berms are used to indicate unused (unmaintained) trails.  About 5 miles of the old trail system was declared “abandoned” (unmaintained) when the biking trails were installed\,  based on an agreement  between  the City of Lake Elmo and the Minnesota Land Trust\, holder of the Conservation Easement on the Park. The hiking trails are clearly and logically signed with  markers at every trail head and trail intersection. These are numbered  #1 through #21 in  a double loop arrangement clockwise with outer loop numbered first and then the inner loop.  These are the numbers shown in this Guide. On each signpost there is the City’s official map and a compass image and a QR code leading to a description of local features. The map shown below is unofficial and is marked with John’s suggested trail walks in RED\, ORANGE\, GOLD\, and PURPLE. Navigation advice for prairie hikes-   Walking Westward from Sign #1\, just before  you get to #2\, you will come to an unmarked T junction with an  abandoned  trail heading south. Turn right (north) and go to #2. The trail to #3 begins immediately to the left of #2 sign. RED –Short Prairie and Forest Loop (20 minutes) – an easy walk\, this hike is relatively flat with some gently  rolling terrain. You begin by  walking  across an open prairie\, then finish with a nice walk through the woods\, ending at the parking lot.  Start at the flagpole behind the nature center\, or Sign #1 along the exit road\, and follow the trail west across the prairie to Sign #2\, turn right to #15 and return eastward past #15\, #14\, and #13. ORANGE – Longer Prairie to Forest  Loop (35 minutes) This hike combines a prairie walk with a nice walk through the forest\,  it is  relatively flat with  some gently rolling terrain. Begin at flagpole behind the nature center\, and follow the path south onto the  prairie where it joins the main trail. Turn  right (west)\, as you walk you encounter #2\, #3\, #4\, where you turn right (east)\,  #16\, #15\, #14\, and #13 which brings you back to the parking lot. GOLD – Ridge Walk (about 35-40 minutes)\, loop starts and ends at the parking lot) This is a relatively flat hike with some gentle  ups and downs. You will walk along forest trails that overlook ponds below you. From the Northwest corner of the parking lot\,  proceed to #13\, then #14\, #15\, #16\,  #17\, #18\, #19\, #20\, #21\, #14\, and back to #13. As you enter the forest\, the trail curves to  the right. At #14\, do not turn right\, proceed along the  ridge towards #15. You will see a bench along the way on your right. It is a lovely spot to rest.  Between #15 and #16 the trail descends gently\, and there is a gentle climb between junctions #17 and #18. There is a gentle decline on the way to junction #20. After this decline\, you will follow a nice flat trail with a pond  on your right. The trail between #20 and #21 can be wet after heavy rains\, but there are walk-arounds. At #21\, turn right and climb a gentle switchback to #14.  At #14 turn left (east) and return to the parking lot\, passing #13 along the way. PURPLE – Boundary hike (about 1 hour)\,  is the longest and most strenuous\, leading across prairie and through dense forest. There are gentle to  moderate climbs and descents throughout the hike\, which begins and ends at the parking lot. From the  Northwest corner of the parking lot\, proceed  west to #13.  At #14\, do not turn right\, proceed along the ridge towards #15.  You will see a bench along the way on your right. Continue along the  trail to #15. Turning to the  left\,  walk to trail junction #2. Follow the  trail through the woods to #3\, #5 (go left\, west)\, #6\, and #7. Approximate walking time to #7  is 30 minutes.  At #7 turn right (east) and follow the trail loop back to #6. This section has a moderate climb. At #6 (which is 4-way)  turn left and follow the trail east to #8\, #9\, and #10. Time to #10 is approximately 55 minutes. Continue on to junction #11.  At #11 there is a  alternative route to the right that is a gentler climb to #12\, compared to the more direct “sledding hill”.  From #12 continue straight ahead  (southwest) to the parking lot Northeast corner.  This is John’s unofficial map with his trail suggestions traced in colors keyed to the text above.
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/downstairs-reserved/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/SMINC-Cover-Image.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260410T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260410T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T130712
CREATED:20251217T171139Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260317T181527Z
UID:10000211-1775815200-1775822400@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:The Power of the Trees: Nature Explorers (all kids welcome)
DESCRIPTION:Sunfish Lake Park Hiking Guide by John Neitge\, 2022 – Our Excellent Friend and late Board Member John Neitge left us his personal guide as part of his legacy – enjoy an excellent hike!  Sunfish Lake Park has about 5 miles each of hiking/multipurpose trails and mountain bike trails. By City Council resolution\, walking on the bike trails  and hiking on the bike trails is prohibited for safety reasons. The nine bike/hike trail intersections are well marked\, but please be observant at these  points\, bikes can travel fast and quietly\, and curves and  vegetation obscure the views. Earth berms are used to indicate unused (unmaintained) trails.  About 5 miles of the old trail system was declared “abandoned” (unmaintained) when the biking trails were installed\,  based on an agreement  between  the City of Lake Elmo and the Minnesota Land Trust\, holder of the Conservation Easement on the Park. The hiking trails are clearly and logically signed with  markers at every trail head and trail intersection. These are numbered  #1 through #21 in  a double loop arrangement clockwise with outer loop numbered first and then the inner loop.  These are the numbers shown in this Guide. On each signpost there is the City’s official map and a compass image and a QR code leading to a description of local features. The map shown below is unofficial and is marked with John’s suggested trail walks in RED\, ORANGE\, GOLD\, and PURPLE. Navigation advice for prairie hikes-   Walking Westward from Sign #1\, just before  you get to #2\, you will come to an unmarked T junction with an  abandoned  trail heading south. Turn right (north) and go to #2. The trail to #3 begins immediately to the left of #2 sign. RED –Short Prairie and Forest Loop (20 minutes) – an easy walk\, this hike is relatively flat with some gently  rolling terrain. You begin by  walking  across an open prairie\, then finish with a nice walk through the woods\, ending at the parking lot.  Start at the flagpole behind the nature center\, or Sign #1 along the exit road\, and follow the trail west across the prairie to Sign #2\, turn right to #15 and return eastward past #15\, #14\, and #13. ORANGE – Longer Prairie to Forest  Loop (35 minutes) This hike combines a prairie walk with a nice walk through the forest\,  it is  relatively flat with  some gently rolling terrain. Begin at flagpole behind the nature center\, and follow the path south onto the  prairie where it joins the main trail. Turn  right (west)\, as you walk you encounter #2\, #3\, #4\, where you turn right (east)\,  #16\, #15\, #14\, and #13 which brings you back to the parking lot. GOLD – Ridge Walk (about 35-40 minutes)\, loop starts and ends at the parking lot) This is a relatively flat hike with some gentle  ups and downs. You will walk along forest trails that overlook ponds below you. From the Northwest corner of the parking lot\,  proceed to #13\, then #14\, #15\, #16\,  #17\, #18\, #19\, #20\, #21\, #14\, and back to #13. As you enter the forest\, the trail curves to  the right. At #14\, do not turn right\, proceed along the  ridge towards #15. You will see a bench along the way on your right. It is a lovely spot to rest.  Between #15 and #16 the trail descends gently\, and there is a gentle climb between junctions #17 and #18. There is a gentle decline on the way to junction #20. After this decline\, you will follow a nice flat trail with a pond  on your right. The trail between #20 and #21 can be wet after heavy rains\, but there are walk-arounds. At #21\, turn right and climb a gentle switchback to #14.  At #14 turn left (east) and return to the parking lot\, passing #13 along the way. PURPLE – Boundary hike (about 1 hour)\,  is the longest and most strenuous\, leading across prairie and through dense forest. There are gentle to  moderate climbs and descents throughout the hike\, which begins and ends at the parking lot. From the  Northwest corner of the parking lot\, proceed  west to #13.  At #14\, do not turn right\, proceed along the ridge towards #15.  You will see a bench along the way on your right. Continue along the  trail to #15. Turning to the  left\,  walk to trail junction #2. Follow the  trail through the woods to #3\, #5 (go left\, west)\, #6\, and #7. Approximate walking time to #7  is 30 minutes.  At #7 turn right (east) and follow the trail loop back to #6. This section has a moderate climb. At #6 (which is 4-way)  turn left and follow the trail east to #8\, #9\, and #10. Time to #10 is approximately 55 minutes. Continue on to junction #11.  At #11 there is a  alternative route to the right that is a gentler climb to #12\, compared to the more direct “sledding hill”.  From #12 continue straight ahead  (southwest) to the parking lot Northeast corner.  This is John’s unofficial map with his trail suggestions traced in colors keyed to the text above.
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/nature-school-nature-explorers-all-kids-welcome-2/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/ANMP0961.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260411T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260411T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T130712
CREATED:20250630T185045Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250630T185046Z
UID:10000026-1775899800-1775908800@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Regular Buckthorn Removal Days
DESCRIPTION:Sunfish Lake Park Hiking Guide by John Neitge\, 2022 – Our Excellent Friend and late Board Member John Neitge left us his personal guide as part of his legacy – enjoy an excellent hike!  Sunfish Lake Park has about 5 miles each of hiking/multipurpose trails and mountain bike trails. By City Council resolution\, walking on the bike trails  and hiking on the bike trails is prohibited for safety reasons. The nine bike/hike trail intersections are well marked\, but please be observant at these  points\, bikes can travel fast and quietly\, and curves and  vegetation obscure the views. Earth berms are used to indicate unused (unmaintained) trails.  About 5 miles of the old trail system was declared “abandoned” (unmaintained) when the biking trails were installed\,  based on an agreement  between  the City of Lake Elmo and the Minnesota Land Trust\, holder of the Conservation Easement on the Park. The hiking trails are clearly and logically signed with  markers at every trail head and trail intersection. These are numbered  #1 through #21 in  a double loop arrangement clockwise with outer loop numbered first and then the inner loop.  These are the numbers shown in this Guide. On each signpost there is the City’s official map and a compass image and a QR code leading to a description of local features. The map shown below is unofficial and is marked with John’s suggested trail walks in RED\, ORANGE\, GOLD\, and PURPLE. Navigation advice for prairie hikes-   Walking Westward from Sign #1\, just before  you get to #2\, you will come to an unmarked T junction with an  abandoned  trail heading south. Turn right (north) and go to #2. The trail to #3 begins immediately to the left of #2 sign. RED –Short Prairie and Forest Loop (20 minutes) – an easy walk\, this hike is relatively flat with some gently  rolling terrain. You begin by  walking  across an open prairie\, then finish with a nice walk through the woods\, ending at the parking lot.  Start at the flagpole behind the nature center\, or Sign #1 along the exit road\, and follow the trail west across the prairie to Sign #2\, turn right to #15 and return eastward past #15\, #14\, and #13. ORANGE – Longer Prairie to Forest  Loop (35 minutes) This hike combines a prairie walk with a nice walk through the forest\,  it is  relatively flat with  some gently rolling terrain. Begin at flagpole behind the nature center\, and follow the path south onto the  prairie where it joins the main trail. Turn  right (west)\, as you walk you encounter #2\, #3\, #4\, where you turn right (east)\,  #16\, #15\, #14\, and #13 which brings you back to the parking lot. GOLD – Ridge Walk (about 35-40 minutes)\, loop starts and ends at the parking lot) This is a relatively flat hike with some gentle  ups and downs. You will walk along forest trails that overlook ponds below you. From the Northwest corner of the parking lot\,  proceed to #13\, then #14\, #15\, #16\,  #17\, #18\, #19\, #20\, #21\, #14\, and back to #13. As you enter the forest\, the trail curves to  the right. At #14\, do not turn right\, proceed along the  ridge towards #15. You will see a bench along the way on your right. It is a lovely spot to rest.  Between #15 and #16 the trail descends gently\, and there is a gentle climb between junctions #17 and #18. There is a gentle decline on the way to junction #20. After this decline\, you will follow a nice flat trail with a pond  on your right. The trail between #20 and #21 can be wet after heavy rains\, but there are walk-arounds. At #21\, turn right and climb a gentle switchback to #14.  At #14 turn left (east) and return to the parking lot\, passing #13 along the way. PURPLE – Boundary hike (about 1 hour)\,  is the longest and most strenuous\, leading across prairie and through dense forest. There are gentle to  moderate climbs and descents throughout the hike\, which begins and ends at the parking lot. From the  Northwest corner of the parking lot\, proceed  west to #13.  At #14\, do not turn right\, proceed along the ridge towards #15.  You will see a bench along the way on your right. Continue along the  trail to #15. Turning to the  left\,  walk to trail junction #2. Follow the  trail through the woods to #3\, #5 (go left\, west)\, #6\, and #7. Approximate walking time to #7  is 30 minutes.  At #7 turn right (east) and follow the trail loop back to #6. This section has a moderate climb. At #6 (which is 4-way)  turn left and follow the trail east to #8\, #9\, and #10. Time to #10 is approximately 55 minutes. Continue on to junction #11.  At #11 there is a  alternative route to the right that is a gentler climb to #12\, compared to the more direct “sledding hill”.  From #12 continue straight ahead  (southwest) to the parking lot Northeast corner.  This is John’s unofficial map with his trail suggestions traced in colors keyed to the text above.
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/regular-buckthorn-removal-days-3/2026-04-11/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Outside-e1715621594754.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260413T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260413T133000
DTSTAMP:20260404T130712
CREATED:20260213T171054Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260213T171054Z
UID:10000251-1776083400-1776087000@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Downstairs Reserved
DESCRIPTION:Sunfish Lake Park Hiking Guide by John Neitge\, 2022 – Our Excellent Friend and late Board Member John Neitge left us his personal guide as part of his legacy – enjoy an excellent hike!  Sunfish Lake Park has about 5 miles each of hiking/multipurpose trails and mountain bike trails. By City Council resolution\, walking on the bike trails  and hiking on the bike trails is prohibited for safety reasons. The nine bike/hike trail intersections are well marked\, but please be observant at these  points\, bikes can travel fast and quietly\, and curves and  vegetation obscure the views. Earth berms are used to indicate unused (unmaintained) trails.  About 5 miles of the old trail system was declared “abandoned” (unmaintained) when the biking trails were installed\,  based on an agreement  between  the City of Lake Elmo and the Minnesota Land Trust\, holder of the Conservation Easement on the Park. The hiking trails are clearly and logically signed with  markers at every trail head and trail intersection. These are numbered  #1 through #21 in  a double loop arrangement clockwise with outer loop numbered first and then the inner loop.  These are the numbers shown in this Guide. On each signpost there is the City’s official map and a compass image and a QR code leading to a description of local features. The map shown below is unofficial and is marked with John’s suggested trail walks in RED\, ORANGE\, GOLD\, and PURPLE. Navigation advice for prairie hikes-   Walking Westward from Sign #1\, just before  you get to #2\, you will come to an unmarked T junction with an  abandoned  trail heading south. Turn right (north) and go to #2. The trail to #3 begins immediately to the left of #2 sign. RED –Short Prairie and Forest Loop (20 minutes) – an easy walk\, this hike is relatively flat with some gently  rolling terrain. You begin by  walking  across an open prairie\, then finish with a nice walk through the woods\, ending at the parking lot.  Start at the flagpole behind the nature center\, or Sign #1 along the exit road\, and follow the trail west across the prairie to Sign #2\, turn right to #15 and return eastward past #15\, #14\, and #13. ORANGE – Longer Prairie to Forest  Loop (35 minutes) This hike combines a prairie walk with a nice walk through the forest\,  it is  relatively flat with  some gently rolling terrain. Begin at flagpole behind the nature center\, and follow the path south onto the  prairie where it joins the main trail. Turn  right (west)\, as you walk you encounter #2\, #3\, #4\, where you turn right (east)\,  #16\, #15\, #14\, and #13 which brings you back to the parking lot. GOLD – Ridge Walk (about 35-40 minutes)\, loop starts and ends at the parking lot) This is a relatively flat hike with some gentle  ups and downs. You will walk along forest trails that overlook ponds below you. From the Northwest corner of the parking lot\,  proceed to #13\, then #14\, #15\, #16\,  #17\, #18\, #19\, #20\, #21\, #14\, and back to #13. As you enter the forest\, the trail curves to  the right. At #14\, do not turn right\, proceed along the  ridge towards #15. You will see a bench along the way on your right. It is a lovely spot to rest.  Between #15 and #16 the trail descends gently\, and there is a gentle climb between junctions #17 and #18. There is a gentle decline on the way to junction #20. After this decline\, you will follow a nice flat trail with a pond  on your right. The trail between #20 and #21 can be wet after heavy rains\, but there are walk-arounds. At #21\, turn right and climb a gentle switchback to #14.  At #14 turn left (east) and return to the parking lot\, passing #13 along the way. PURPLE – Boundary hike (about 1 hour)\,  is the longest and most strenuous\, leading across prairie and through dense forest. There are gentle to  moderate climbs and descents throughout the hike\, which begins and ends at the parking lot. From the  Northwest corner of the parking lot\, proceed  west to #13.  At #14\, do not turn right\, proceed along the ridge towards #15.  You will see a bench along the way on your right. Continue along the  trail to #15. Turning to the  left\,  walk to trail junction #2. Follow the  trail through the woods to #3\, #5 (go left\, west)\, #6\, and #7. Approximate walking time to #7  is 30 minutes.  At #7 turn right (east) and follow the trail loop back to #6. This section has a moderate climb. At #6 (which is 4-way)  turn left and follow the trail east to #8\, #9\, and #10. Time to #10 is approximately 55 minutes. Continue on to junction #11.  At #11 there is a  alternative route to the right that is a gentler climb to #12\, compared to the more direct “sledding hill”.  From #12 continue straight ahead  (southwest) to the parking lot Northeast corner.  This is John’s unofficial map with his trail suggestions traced in colors keyed to the text above.
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/downstairs-reserved-2/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/SMINC-Cover-Image.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260414T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260414T103000
DTSTAMP:20260404T130712
CREATED:20250814T153549Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250820T135057Z
UID:10000174-1776160800-1776162600@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Toddler Tuesday: The Cunning Coyote
DESCRIPTION:Sunfish Lake Park Hiking Guide by John Neitge\, 2022 – Our Excellent Friend and late Board Member John Neitge left us his personal guide as part of his legacy – enjoy an excellent hike!  Sunfish Lake Park has about 5 miles each of hiking/multipurpose trails and mountain bike trails. By City Council resolution\, walking on the bike trails  and hiking on the bike trails is prohibited for safety reasons. The nine bike/hike trail intersections are well marked\, but please be observant at these  points\, bikes can travel fast and quietly\, and curves and  vegetation obscure the views. Earth berms are used to indicate unused (unmaintained) trails.  About 5 miles of the old trail system was declared “abandoned” (unmaintained) when the biking trails were installed\,  based on an agreement  between  the City of Lake Elmo and the Minnesota Land Trust\, holder of the Conservation Easement on the Park. The hiking trails are clearly and logically signed with  markers at every trail head and trail intersection. These are numbered  #1 through #21 in  a double loop arrangement clockwise with outer loop numbered first and then the inner loop.  These are the numbers shown in this Guide. On each signpost there is the City’s official map and a compass image and a QR code leading to a description of local features. The map shown below is unofficial and is marked with John’s suggested trail walks in RED\, ORANGE\, GOLD\, and PURPLE. Navigation advice for prairie hikes-   Walking Westward from Sign #1\, just before  you get to #2\, you will come to an unmarked T junction with an  abandoned  trail heading south. Turn right (north) and go to #2. The trail to #3 begins immediately to the left of #2 sign. RED –Short Prairie and Forest Loop (20 minutes) – an easy walk\, this hike is relatively flat with some gently  rolling terrain. You begin by  walking  across an open prairie\, then finish with a nice walk through the woods\, ending at the parking lot.  Start at the flagpole behind the nature center\, or Sign #1 along the exit road\, and follow the trail west across the prairie to Sign #2\, turn right to #15 and return eastward past #15\, #14\, and #13. ORANGE – Longer Prairie to Forest  Loop (35 minutes) This hike combines a prairie walk with a nice walk through the forest\,  it is  relatively flat with  some gently rolling terrain. Begin at flagpole behind the nature center\, and follow the path south onto the  prairie where it joins the main trail. Turn  right (west)\, as you walk you encounter #2\, #3\, #4\, where you turn right (east)\,  #16\, #15\, #14\, and #13 which brings you back to the parking lot. GOLD – Ridge Walk (about 35-40 minutes)\, loop starts and ends at the parking lot) This is a relatively flat hike with some gentle  ups and downs. You will walk along forest trails that overlook ponds below you. From the Northwest corner of the parking lot\,  proceed to #13\, then #14\, #15\, #16\,  #17\, #18\, #19\, #20\, #21\, #14\, and back to #13. As you enter the forest\, the trail curves to  the right. At #14\, do not turn right\, proceed along the  ridge towards #15. You will see a bench along the way on your right. It is a lovely spot to rest.  Between #15 and #16 the trail descends gently\, and there is a gentle climb between junctions #17 and #18. There is a gentle decline on the way to junction #20. After this decline\, you will follow a nice flat trail with a pond  on your right. The trail between #20 and #21 can be wet after heavy rains\, but there are walk-arounds. At #21\, turn right and climb a gentle switchback to #14.  At #14 turn left (east) and return to the parking lot\, passing #13 along the way. PURPLE – Boundary hike (about 1 hour)\,  is the longest and most strenuous\, leading across prairie and through dense forest. There are gentle to  moderate climbs and descents throughout the hike\, which begins and ends at the parking lot. From the  Northwest corner of the parking lot\, proceed  west to #13.  At #14\, do not turn right\, proceed along the ridge towards #15.  You will see a bench along the way on your right. Continue along the  trail to #15. Turning to the  left\,  walk to trail junction #2. Follow the  trail through the woods to #3\, #5 (go left\, west)\, #6\, and #7. Approximate walking time to #7  is 30 minutes.  At #7 turn right (east) and follow the trail loop back to #6. This section has a moderate climb. At #6 (which is 4-way)  turn left and follow the trail east to #8\, #9\, and #10. Time to #10 is approximately 55 minutes. Continue on to junction #11.  At #11 there is a  alternative route to the right that is a gentler climb to #12\, compared to the more direct “sledding hill”.  From #12 continue straight ahead  (southwest) to the parking lot Northeast corner.  This is John’s unofficial map with his trail suggestions traced in colors keyed to the text above.
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/toddler-tuesday-15/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Tent.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260414T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260414T200000
DTSTAMP:20260404T130712
CREATED:20251217T180050Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260323T171433Z
UID:10000218-1776189600-1776196800@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Medicinal Tree Series with Dr. Paul Red Elk - Fruit Trees (Aplles/Cherry)
DESCRIPTION:Sunfish Lake Park Hiking Guide by John Neitge\, 2022 – Our Excellent Friend and late Board Member John Neitge left us his personal guide as part of his legacy – enjoy an excellent hike!  Sunfish Lake Park has about 5 miles each of hiking/multipurpose trails and mountain bike trails. By City Council resolution\, walking on the bike trails  and hiking on the bike trails is prohibited for safety reasons. The nine bike/hike trail intersections are well marked\, but please be observant at these  points\, bikes can travel fast and quietly\, and curves and  vegetation obscure the views. Earth berms are used to indicate unused (unmaintained) trails.  About 5 miles of the old trail system was declared “abandoned” (unmaintained) when the biking trails were installed\,  based on an agreement  between  the City of Lake Elmo and the Minnesota Land Trust\, holder of the Conservation Easement on the Park. The hiking trails are clearly and logically signed with  markers at every trail head and trail intersection. These are numbered  #1 through #21 in  a double loop arrangement clockwise with outer loop numbered first and then the inner loop.  These are the numbers shown in this Guide. On each signpost there is the City’s official map and a compass image and a QR code leading to a description of local features. The map shown below is unofficial and is marked with John’s suggested trail walks in RED\, ORANGE\, GOLD\, and PURPLE. Navigation advice for prairie hikes-   Walking Westward from Sign #1\, just before  you get to #2\, you will come to an unmarked T junction with an  abandoned  trail heading south. Turn right (north) and go to #2. The trail to #3 begins immediately to the left of #2 sign. RED –Short Prairie and Forest Loop (20 minutes) – an easy walk\, this hike is relatively flat with some gently  rolling terrain. You begin by  walking  across an open prairie\, then finish with a nice walk through the woods\, ending at the parking lot.  Start at the flagpole behind the nature center\, or Sign #1 along the exit road\, and follow the trail west across the prairie to Sign #2\, turn right to #15 and return eastward past #15\, #14\, and #13. ORANGE – Longer Prairie to Forest  Loop (35 minutes) This hike combines a prairie walk with a nice walk through the forest\,  it is  relatively flat with  some gently rolling terrain. Begin at flagpole behind the nature center\, and follow the path south onto the  prairie where it joins the main trail. Turn  right (west)\, as you walk you encounter #2\, #3\, #4\, where you turn right (east)\,  #16\, #15\, #14\, and #13 which brings you back to the parking lot. GOLD – Ridge Walk (about 35-40 minutes)\, loop starts and ends at the parking lot) This is a relatively flat hike with some gentle  ups and downs. You will walk along forest trails that overlook ponds below you. From the Northwest corner of the parking lot\,  proceed to #13\, then #14\, #15\, #16\,  #17\, #18\, #19\, #20\, #21\, #14\, and back to #13. As you enter the forest\, the trail curves to  the right. At #14\, do not turn right\, proceed along the  ridge towards #15. You will see a bench along the way on your right. It is a lovely spot to rest.  Between #15 and #16 the trail descends gently\, and there is a gentle climb between junctions #17 and #18. There is a gentle decline on the way to junction #20. After this decline\, you will follow a nice flat trail with a pond  on your right. The trail between #20 and #21 can be wet after heavy rains\, but there are walk-arounds. At #21\, turn right and climb a gentle switchback to #14.  At #14 turn left (east) and return to the parking lot\, passing #13 along the way. PURPLE – Boundary hike (about 1 hour)\,  is the longest and most strenuous\, leading across prairie and through dense forest. There are gentle to  moderate climbs and descents throughout the hike\, which begins and ends at the parking lot. From the  Northwest corner of the parking lot\, proceed  west to #13.  At #14\, do not turn right\, proceed along the ridge towards #15.  You will see a bench along the way on your right. Continue along the  trail to #15. Turning to the  left\,  walk to trail junction #2. Follow the  trail through the woods to #3\, #5 (go left\, west)\, #6\, and #7. Approximate walking time to #7  is 30 minutes.  At #7 turn right (east) and follow the trail loop back to #6. This section has a moderate climb. At #6 (which is 4-way)  turn left and follow the trail east to #8\, #9\, and #10. Time to #10 is approximately 55 minutes. Continue on to junction #11.  At #11 there is a  alternative route to the right that is a gentler climb to #12\, compared to the more direct “sledding hill”.  From #12 continue straight ahead  (southwest) to the parking lot Northeast corner.  This is John’s unofficial map with his trail suggestions traced in colors keyed to the text above.
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/medicinal-tree-series-with-dr-paul-red-elk-fruit-trees-aplles-cherry/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/DSC05369-ps2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260417T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260417T113000
DTSTAMP:20260404T130712
CREATED:20260213T171335Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260213T171335Z
UID:10000252-1776420000-1776425400@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Downstairs Reserved
DESCRIPTION:Sunfish Lake Park Hiking Guide by John Neitge\, 2022 – Our Excellent Friend and late Board Member John Neitge left us his personal guide as part of his legacy – enjoy an excellent hike!  Sunfish Lake Park has about 5 miles each of hiking/multipurpose trails and mountain bike trails. By City Council resolution\, walking on the bike trails  and hiking on the bike trails is prohibited for safety reasons. The nine bike/hike trail intersections are well marked\, but please be observant at these  points\, bikes can travel fast and quietly\, and curves and  vegetation obscure the views. Earth berms are used to indicate unused (unmaintained) trails.  About 5 miles of the old trail system was declared “abandoned” (unmaintained) when the biking trails were installed\,  based on an agreement  between  the City of Lake Elmo and the Minnesota Land Trust\, holder of the Conservation Easement on the Park. The hiking trails are clearly and logically signed with  markers at every trail head and trail intersection. These are numbered  #1 through #21 in  a double loop arrangement clockwise with outer loop numbered first and then the inner loop.  These are the numbers shown in this Guide. On each signpost there is the City’s official map and a compass image and a QR code leading to a description of local features. The map shown below is unofficial and is marked with John’s suggested trail walks in RED\, ORANGE\, GOLD\, and PURPLE. Navigation advice for prairie hikes-   Walking Westward from Sign #1\, just before  you get to #2\, you will come to an unmarked T junction with an  abandoned  trail heading south. Turn right (north) and go to #2. The trail to #3 begins immediately to the left of #2 sign. RED –Short Prairie and Forest Loop (20 minutes) – an easy walk\, this hike is relatively flat with some gently  rolling terrain. You begin by  walking  across an open prairie\, then finish with a nice walk through the woods\, ending at the parking lot.  Start at the flagpole behind the nature center\, or Sign #1 along the exit road\, and follow the trail west across the prairie to Sign #2\, turn right to #15 and return eastward past #15\, #14\, and #13. ORANGE – Longer Prairie to Forest  Loop (35 minutes) This hike combines a prairie walk with a nice walk through the forest\,  it is  relatively flat with  some gently rolling terrain. Begin at flagpole behind the nature center\, and follow the path south onto the  prairie where it joins the main trail. Turn  right (west)\, as you walk you encounter #2\, #3\, #4\, where you turn right (east)\,  #16\, #15\, #14\, and #13 which brings you back to the parking lot. GOLD – Ridge Walk (about 35-40 minutes)\, loop starts and ends at the parking lot) This is a relatively flat hike with some gentle  ups and downs. You will walk along forest trails that overlook ponds below you. From the Northwest corner of the parking lot\,  proceed to #13\, then #14\, #15\, #16\,  #17\, #18\, #19\, #20\, #21\, #14\, and back to #13. As you enter the forest\, the trail curves to  the right. At #14\, do not turn right\, proceed along the  ridge towards #15. You will see a bench along the way on your right. It is a lovely spot to rest.  Between #15 and #16 the trail descends gently\, and there is a gentle climb between junctions #17 and #18. There is a gentle decline on the way to junction #20. After this decline\, you will follow a nice flat trail with a pond  on your right. The trail between #20 and #21 can be wet after heavy rains\, but there are walk-arounds. At #21\, turn right and climb a gentle switchback to #14.  At #14 turn left (east) and return to the parking lot\, passing #13 along the way. PURPLE – Boundary hike (about 1 hour)\,  is the longest and most strenuous\, leading across prairie and through dense forest. There are gentle to  moderate climbs and descents throughout the hike\, which begins and ends at the parking lot. From the  Northwest corner of the parking lot\, proceed  west to #13.  At #14\, do not turn right\, proceed along the ridge towards #15.  You will see a bench along the way on your right. Continue along the  trail to #15. Turning to the  left\,  walk to trail junction #2. Follow the  trail through the woods to #3\, #5 (go left\, west)\, #6\, and #7. Approximate walking time to #7  is 30 minutes.  At #7 turn right (east) and follow the trail loop back to #6. This section has a moderate climb. At #6 (which is 4-way)  turn left and follow the trail east to #8\, #9\, and #10. Time to #10 is approximately 55 minutes. Continue on to junction #11.  At #11 there is a  alternative route to the right that is a gentler climb to #12\, compared to the more direct “sledding hill”.  From #12 continue straight ahead  (southwest) to the parking lot Northeast corner.  This is John’s unofficial map with his trail suggestions traced in colors keyed to the text above.
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/downstairs-reserved-3/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/SMINC-Cover-Image.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260418T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260418T113000
DTSTAMP:20260404T130712
CREATED:20260220T161137Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260220T161137Z
UID:10000256-1776502800-1776511800@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Earth Day Celebration - Volunteers Needed
DESCRIPTION:Sunfish Lake Park Hiking Guide by John Neitge\, 2022 – Our Excellent Friend and late Board Member John Neitge left us his personal guide as part of his legacy – enjoy an excellent hike!  Sunfish Lake Park has about 5 miles each of hiking/multipurpose trails and mountain bike trails. By City Council resolution\, walking on the bike trails  and hiking on the bike trails is prohibited for safety reasons. The nine bike/hike trail intersections are well marked\, but please be observant at these  points\, bikes can travel fast and quietly\, and curves and  vegetation obscure the views. Earth berms are used to indicate unused (unmaintained) trails.  About 5 miles of the old trail system was declared “abandoned” (unmaintained) when the biking trails were installed\,  based on an agreement  between  the City of Lake Elmo and the Minnesota Land Trust\, holder of the Conservation Easement on the Park. The hiking trails are clearly and logically signed with  markers at every trail head and trail intersection. These are numbered  #1 through #21 in  a double loop arrangement clockwise with outer loop numbered first and then the inner loop.  These are the numbers shown in this Guide. On each signpost there is the City’s official map and a compass image and a QR code leading to a description of local features. The map shown below is unofficial and is marked with John’s suggested trail walks in RED\, ORANGE\, GOLD\, and PURPLE. Navigation advice for prairie hikes-   Walking Westward from Sign #1\, just before  you get to #2\, you will come to an unmarked T junction with an  abandoned  trail heading south. Turn right (north) and go to #2. The trail to #3 begins immediately to the left of #2 sign. RED –Short Prairie and Forest Loop (20 minutes) – an easy walk\, this hike is relatively flat with some gently  rolling terrain. You begin by  walking  across an open prairie\, then finish with a nice walk through the woods\, ending at the parking lot.  Start at the flagpole behind the nature center\, or Sign #1 along the exit road\, and follow the trail west across the prairie to Sign #2\, turn right to #15 and return eastward past #15\, #14\, and #13. ORANGE – Longer Prairie to Forest  Loop (35 minutes) This hike combines a prairie walk with a nice walk through the forest\,  it is  relatively flat with  some gently rolling terrain. Begin at flagpole behind the nature center\, and follow the path south onto the  prairie where it joins the main trail. Turn  right (west)\, as you walk you encounter #2\, #3\, #4\, where you turn right (east)\,  #16\, #15\, #14\, and #13 which brings you back to the parking lot. GOLD – Ridge Walk (about 35-40 minutes)\, loop starts and ends at the parking lot) This is a relatively flat hike with some gentle  ups and downs. You will walk along forest trails that overlook ponds below you. From the Northwest corner of the parking lot\,  proceed to #13\, then #14\, #15\, #16\,  #17\, #18\, #19\, #20\, #21\, #14\, and back to #13. As you enter the forest\, the trail curves to  the right. At #14\, do not turn right\, proceed along the  ridge towards #15. You will see a bench along the way on your right. It is a lovely spot to rest.  Between #15 and #16 the trail descends gently\, and there is a gentle climb between junctions #17 and #18. There is a gentle decline on the way to junction #20. After this decline\, you will follow a nice flat trail with a pond  on your right. The trail between #20 and #21 can be wet after heavy rains\, but there are walk-arounds. At #21\, turn right and climb a gentle switchback to #14.  At #14 turn left (east) and return to the parking lot\, passing #13 along the way. PURPLE – Boundary hike (about 1 hour)\,  is the longest and most strenuous\, leading across prairie and through dense forest. There are gentle to  moderate climbs and descents throughout the hike\, which begins and ends at the parking lot. From the  Northwest corner of the parking lot\, proceed  west to #13.  At #14\, do not turn right\, proceed along the ridge towards #15.  You will see a bench along the way on your right. Continue along the  trail to #15. Turning to the  left\,  walk to trail junction #2. Follow the  trail through the woods to #3\, #5 (go left\, west)\, #6\, and #7. Approximate walking time to #7  is 30 minutes.  At #7 turn right (east) and follow the trail loop back to #6. This section has a moderate climb. At #6 (which is 4-way)  turn left and follow the trail east to #8\, #9\, and #10. Time to #10 is approximately 55 minutes. Continue on to junction #11.  At #11 there is a  alternative route to the right that is a gentler climb to #12\, compared to the more direct “sledding hill”.  From #12 continue straight ahead  (southwest) to the parking lot Northeast corner.  This is John’s unofficial map with his trail suggestions traced in colors keyed to the text above.
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/earth-day-celebration-volunteers-needed/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Exhibits-Outside-Prairie-Rest-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260425T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260425T120000
DTSTAMP:20260404T130712
CREATED:20260223T195000Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260402T143539Z
UID:10000257-1777111200-1777118400@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Bell Museum/SMINC Mash-Up
DESCRIPTION:Sunfish Lake Park Hiking Guide by John Neitge\, 2022 – Our Excellent Friend and late Board Member John Neitge left us his personal guide as part of his legacy – enjoy an excellent hike!  Sunfish Lake Park has about 5 miles each of hiking/multipurpose trails and mountain bike trails. By City Council resolution\, walking on the bike trails  and hiking on the bike trails is prohibited for safety reasons. The nine bike/hike trail intersections are well marked\, but please be observant at these  points\, bikes can travel fast and quietly\, and curves and  vegetation obscure the views. Earth berms are used to indicate unused (unmaintained) trails.  About 5 miles of the old trail system was declared “abandoned” (unmaintained) when the biking trails were installed\,  based on an agreement  between  the City of Lake Elmo and the Minnesota Land Trust\, holder of the Conservation Easement on the Park. The hiking trails are clearly and logically signed with  markers at every trail head and trail intersection. These are numbered  #1 through #21 in  a double loop arrangement clockwise with outer loop numbered first and then the inner loop.  These are the numbers shown in this Guide. On each signpost there is the City’s official map and a compass image and a QR code leading to a description of local features. The map shown below is unofficial and is marked with John’s suggested trail walks in RED\, ORANGE\, GOLD\, and PURPLE. Navigation advice for prairie hikes-   Walking Westward from Sign #1\, just before  you get to #2\, you will come to an unmarked T junction with an  abandoned  trail heading south. Turn right (north) and go to #2. The trail to #3 begins immediately to the left of #2 sign. RED –Short Prairie and Forest Loop (20 minutes) – an easy walk\, this hike is relatively flat with some gently  rolling terrain. You begin by  walking  across an open prairie\, then finish with a nice walk through the woods\, ending at the parking lot.  Start at the flagpole behind the nature center\, or Sign #1 along the exit road\, and follow the trail west across the prairie to Sign #2\, turn right to #15 and return eastward past #15\, #14\, and #13. ORANGE – Longer Prairie to Forest  Loop (35 minutes) This hike combines a prairie walk with a nice walk through the forest\,  it is  relatively flat with  some gently rolling terrain. Begin at flagpole behind the nature center\, and follow the path south onto the  prairie where it joins the main trail. Turn  right (west)\, as you walk you encounter #2\, #3\, #4\, where you turn right (east)\,  #16\, #15\, #14\, and #13 which brings you back to the parking lot. GOLD – Ridge Walk (about 35-40 minutes)\, loop starts and ends at the parking lot) This is a relatively flat hike with some gentle  ups and downs. You will walk along forest trails that overlook ponds below you. From the Northwest corner of the parking lot\,  proceed to #13\, then #14\, #15\, #16\,  #17\, #18\, #19\, #20\, #21\, #14\, and back to #13. As you enter the forest\, the trail curves to  the right. At #14\, do not turn right\, proceed along the  ridge towards #15. You will see a bench along the way on your right. It is a lovely spot to rest.  Between #15 and #16 the trail descends gently\, and there is a gentle climb between junctions #17 and #18. There is a gentle decline on the way to junction #20. After this decline\, you will follow a nice flat trail with a pond  on your right. The trail between #20 and #21 can be wet after heavy rains\, but there are walk-arounds. At #21\, turn right and climb a gentle switchback to #14.  At #14 turn left (east) and return to the parking lot\, passing #13 along the way. PURPLE – Boundary hike (about 1 hour)\,  is the longest and most strenuous\, leading across prairie and through dense forest. There are gentle to  moderate climbs and descents throughout the hike\, which begins and ends at the parking lot. From the  Northwest corner of the parking lot\, proceed  west to #13.  At #14\, do not turn right\, proceed along the ridge towards #15.  You will see a bench along the way on your right. Continue along the  trail to #15. Turning to the  left\,  walk to trail junction #2. Follow the  trail through the woods to #3\, #5 (go left\, west)\, #6\, and #7. Approximate walking time to #7  is 30 minutes.  At #7 turn right (east) and follow the trail loop back to #6. This section has a moderate climb. At #6 (which is 4-way)  turn left and follow the trail east to #8\, #9\, and #10. Time to #10 is approximately 55 minutes. Continue on to junction #11.  At #11 there is a  alternative route to the right that is a gentler climb to #12\, compared to the more direct “sledding hill”.  From #12 continue straight ahead  (southwest) to the parking lot Northeast corner.  This is John’s unofficial map with his trail suggestions traced in colors keyed to the text above.
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/bell-museum-sminc-mash-up/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/ANMP0721-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260428T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260428T140000
DTSTAMP:20260404T130712
CREATED:20260107T163057Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260401T014536Z
UID:10000237-1777370400-1777384800@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Painting Class with Julie Schroeder
DESCRIPTION:Sunfish Lake Park Hiking Guide by John Neitge\, 2022 – Our Excellent Friend and late Board Member John Neitge left us his personal guide as part of his legacy – enjoy an excellent hike!  Sunfish Lake Park has about 5 miles each of hiking/multipurpose trails and mountain bike trails. By City Council resolution\, walking on the bike trails  and hiking on the bike trails is prohibited for safety reasons. The nine bike/hike trail intersections are well marked\, but please be observant at these  points\, bikes can travel fast and quietly\, and curves and  vegetation obscure the views. Earth berms are used to indicate unused (unmaintained) trails.  About 5 miles of the old trail system was declared “abandoned” (unmaintained) when the biking trails were installed\,  based on an agreement  between  the City of Lake Elmo and the Minnesota Land Trust\, holder of the Conservation Easement on the Park. The hiking trails are clearly and logically signed with  markers at every trail head and trail intersection. These are numbered  #1 through #21 in  a double loop arrangement clockwise with outer loop numbered first and then the inner loop.  These are the numbers shown in this Guide. On each signpost there is the City’s official map and a compass image and a QR code leading to a description of local features. The map shown below is unofficial and is marked with John’s suggested trail walks in RED\, ORANGE\, GOLD\, and PURPLE. Navigation advice for prairie hikes-   Walking Westward from Sign #1\, just before  you get to #2\, you will come to an unmarked T junction with an  abandoned  trail heading south. Turn right (north) and go to #2. The trail to #3 begins immediately to the left of #2 sign. RED –Short Prairie and Forest Loop (20 minutes) – an easy walk\, this hike is relatively flat with some gently  rolling terrain. You begin by  walking  across an open prairie\, then finish with a nice walk through the woods\, ending at the parking lot.  Start at the flagpole behind the nature center\, or Sign #1 along the exit road\, and follow the trail west across the prairie to Sign #2\, turn right to #15 and return eastward past #15\, #14\, and #13. ORANGE – Longer Prairie to Forest  Loop (35 minutes) This hike combines a prairie walk with a nice walk through the forest\,  it is  relatively flat with  some gently rolling terrain. Begin at flagpole behind the nature center\, and follow the path south onto the  prairie where it joins the main trail. Turn  right (west)\, as you walk you encounter #2\, #3\, #4\, where you turn right (east)\,  #16\, #15\, #14\, and #13 which brings you back to the parking lot. GOLD – Ridge Walk (about 35-40 minutes)\, loop starts and ends at the parking lot) This is a relatively flat hike with some gentle  ups and downs. You will walk along forest trails that overlook ponds below you. From the Northwest corner of the parking lot\,  proceed to #13\, then #14\, #15\, #16\,  #17\, #18\, #19\, #20\, #21\, #14\, and back to #13. As you enter the forest\, the trail curves to  the right. At #14\, do not turn right\, proceed along the  ridge towards #15. You will see a bench along the way on your right. It is a lovely spot to rest.  Between #15 and #16 the trail descends gently\, and there is a gentle climb between junctions #17 and #18. There is a gentle decline on the way to junction #20. After this decline\, you will follow a nice flat trail with a pond  on your right. The trail between #20 and #21 can be wet after heavy rains\, but there are walk-arounds. At #21\, turn right and climb a gentle switchback to #14.  At #14 turn left (east) and return to the parking lot\, passing #13 along the way. PURPLE – Boundary hike (about 1 hour)\,  is the longest and most strenuous\, leading across prairie and through dense forest. There are gentle to  moderate climbs and descents throughout the hike\, which begins and ends at the parking lot. From the  Northwest corner of the parking lot\, proceed  west to #13.  At #14\, do not turn right\, proceed along the ridge towards #15.  You will see a bench along the way on your right. Continue along the  trail to #15. Turning to the  left\,  walk to trail junction #2. Follow the  trail through the woods to #3\, #5 (go left\, west)\, #6\, and #7. Approximate walking time to #7  is 30 minutes.  At #7 turn right (east) and follow the trail loop back to #6. This section has a moderate climb. At #6 (which is 4-way)  turn left and follow the trail east to #8\, #9\, and #10. Time to #10 is approximately 55 minutes. Continue on to junction #11.  At #11 there is a  alternative route to the right that is a gentler climb to #12\, compared to the more direct “sledding hill”.  From #12 continue straight ahead  (southwest) to the parking lot Northeast corner.  This is John’s unofficial map with his trail suggestions traced in colors keyed to the text above.
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/painting-class-with-julie-schroeder-8/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Julie-collage-acrylic-pouring-3-31-26.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260428T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260428T200000
DTSTAMP:20260404T130712
CREATED:20251217T180252Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260323T173237Z
UID:10000219-1777399200-1777406400@sminc-lake-elmo.org
SUMMARY:Medicinal Tree Series with Dr. Paul Red Elk - Pines/Cedars
DESCRIPTION:Sunfish Lake Park Hiking Guide by John Neitge\, 2022 – Our Excellent Friend and late Board Member John Neitge left us his personal guide as part of his legacy – enjoy an excellent hike!  Sunfish Lake Park has about 5 miles each of hiking/multipurpose trails and mountain bike trails. By City Council resolution\, walking on the bike trails  and hiking on the bike trails is prohibited for safety reasons. The nine bike/hike trail intersections are well marked\, but please be observant at these  points\, bikes can travel fast and quietly\, and curves and  vegetation obscure the views. Earth berms are used to indicate unused (unmaintained) trails.  About 5 miles of the old trail system was declared “abandoned” (unmaintained) when the biking trails were installed\,  based on an agreement  between  the City of Lake Elmo and the Minnesota Land Trust\, holder of the Conservation Easement on the Park. The hiking trails are clearly and logically signed with  markers at every trail head and trail intersection. These are numbered  #1 through #21 in  a double loop arrangement clockwise with outer loop numbered first and then the inner loop.  These are the numbers shown in this Guide. On each signpost there is the City’s official map and a compass image and a QR code leading to a description of local features. The map shown below is unofficial and is marked with John’s suggested trail walks in RED\, ORANGE\, GOLD\, and PURPLE. Navigation advice for prairie hikes-   Walking Westward from Sign #1\, just before  you get to #2\, you will come to an unmarked T junction with an  abandoned  trail heading south. Turn right (north) and go to #2. The trail to #3 begins immediately to the left of #2 sign. RED –Short Prairie and Forest Loop (20 minutes) – an easy walk\, this hike is relatively flat with some gently  rolling terrain. You begin by  walking  across an open prairie\, then finish with a nice walk through the woods\, ending at the parking lot.  Start at the flagpole behind the nature center\, or Sign #1 along the exit road\, and follow the trail west across the prairie to Sign #2\, turn right to #15 and return eastward past #15\, #14\, and #13. ORANGE – Longer Prairie to Forest  Loop (35 minutes) This hike combines a prairie walk with a nice walk through the forest\,  it is  relatively flat with  some gently rolling terrain. Begin at flagpole behind the nature center\, and follow the path south onto the  prairie where it joins the main trail. Turn  right (west)\, as you walk you encounter #2\, #3\, #4\, where you turn right (east)\,  #16\, #15\, #14\, and #13 which brings you back to the parking lot. GOLD – Ridge Walk (about 35-40 minutes)\, loop starts and ends at the parking lot) This is a relatively flat hike with some gentle  ups and downs. You will walk along forest trails that overlook ponds below you. From the Northwest corner of the parking lot\,  proceed to #13\, then #14\, #15\, #16\,  #17\, #18\, #19\, #20\, #21\, #14\, and back to #13. As you enter the forest\, the trail curves to  the right. At #14\, do not turn right\, proceed along the  ridge towards #15. You will see a bench along the way on your right. It is a lovely spot to rest.  Between #15 and #16 the trail descends gently\, and there is a gentle climb between junctions #17 and #18. There is a gentle decline on the way to junction #20. After this decline\, you will follow a nice flat trail with a pond  on your right. The trail between #20 and #21 can be wet after heavy rains\, but there are walk-arounds. At #21\, turn right and climb a gentle switchback to #14.  At #14 turn left (east) and return to the parking lot\, passing #13 along the way. PURPLE – Boundary hike (about 1 hour)\,  is the longest and most strenuous\, leading across prairie and through dense forest. There are gentle to  moderate climbs and descents throughout the hike\, which begins and ends at the parking lot. From the  Northwest corner of the parking lot\, proceed  west to #13.  At #14\, do not turn right\, proceed along the ridge towards #15.  You will see a bench along the way on your right. Continue along the  trail to #15. Turning to the  left\,  walk to trail junction #2. Follow the  trail through the woods to #3\, #5 (go left\, west)\, #6\, and #7. Approximate walking time to #7  is 30 minutes.  At #7 turn right (east) and follow the trail loop back to #6. This section has a moderate climb. At #6 (which is 4-way)  turn left and follow the trail east to #8\, #9\, and #10. Time to #10 is approximately 55 minutes. Continue on to junction #11.  At #11 there is a  alternative route to the right that is a gentler climb to #12\, compared to the more direct “sledding hill”.  From #12 continue straight ahead  (southwest) to the parking lot Northeast corner.  This is John’s unofficial map with his trail suggestions traced in colors keyed to the text above.
URL:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event/medicinal-tree-series-with-dr-paul-red-elk-pines-cedars/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/SMINC-Cover-Image.jpg
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR