Now that the snow is almost gone it is time to return to this 320 acre park. (1.3 sq.km) In the winter they are cross-country ski only. I did a 4.5 mile (7.25 km) walk here on March 20, 2019 and did not come close to hiking all the trails. The central loop is paved and was clear of snow but only half a mile (0.8 km). The large parking area is free of charge. During the pandemic their amazing visitor center is closed, but if you need a restroom, pit toilets are available. The trails are well marked and have names like Acorn, Deer, and Dragonfly. They are arranged in concentric circles, sort of. This is a great place for a day hike.
I did one crossing of a small stream. I spied a tree root under the water that was in just the right spot to make it possible to only get one foot submerged and it did not go over the top of my boot so I was OK. That was kinda fun.
Spring has arrived in this part of Minnesota. While it is nice to have a break from walking like a penguin to avoid falling on the icy trails, I am less inspired to take photos. If you are a fan of neutral colors, then now is the time to visit Minnesota. Everything is brown, gray, and tan. This is the muddy, sloppy time. The wonderful part is feeling a breeze on your face without the sting of cold. The air smells of wet leaves. Some might see that as a negative but I find it pleasant to know that the plants are getting what they need to start growing.
On April 6, 2019, I was able to walk the middle loop called the “acorn” trail. I loved the bright green moss on the fallen logs. A couple ducks walked across the path in front of me. I felt like all was well and good in that moment. The moss reminded me of a time in my past when I searched out the shady, mossy areas for my plein air painting. I am looking forward to more painting outside in the near future.
Tamarack Nature Center has plenty of opportunity for a variety of hikes. It is a great place to observe the changing of the seasons. Which aspect of a change in season do you look forward to the most?
4.5 mile (7.25 km)
I woke this morning realizing I never wrote a post for the second week in a row. Is this blog important to me or is it not? Make Time for What is Important. I looked it over and decided this post could be improved and updated. It is a wonderful place, deserving of another look.
Tammy Nara 
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