The Three Rivers Park District in the Twin Cities metro area of Minnesota offers “Trails At Your Pace” walking trails. Located in nine parks, these trails are short, gentle and designed to make it easier for people of all ages and abilities to begin a walking program. The well-marked trails are generally a mile or less in length, have rest stops every quarter mile, nearby free parking and convenient access to drinking water and staffed park facilities. Nordic walking poles are also available for free at the Cleary, French and Hyland visitor centers and Eastman, Lowry and Richardson nature centers.

Established in 2005, “Trails At Your Pace” were designed for individuals with arthritis in mind, but the trails also are ideal for those recovering from surgery or an injury, parents with small children and strollers, and people who are just beginning a fitness program. “Trails At Your Pace” are an easy option for short lunchtime walks during the work week.

According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, adults need either moderate physical activity for 30 minutes or more five days per week or vigorous physical activity for 20 minutes or more at least three days per week. Physical activity helps control weight, high blood pressure and reduces the risk for Type 2 diabetes, heart attack and colon cancer. Exercise also helps reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, pain and disability associated with arthritis, and helps prevent osteoporosis and falls.

Trails At Your Pace locations

• Baker Park Reserve, Medina. 1.1 miles, begins at campground office.

• Carver Park Reserve, Victoria. 0.8 mile, begins near Lowry Nature Center.

• Cleary Lake Regional Park, Prior Lake. 1 mile, begins near visitor center.

• Elm Creek Park Reserve, Maple Grove. 1.1 miles, begins near the main park entrance.

• Fish Lake Regional Park, Maple Grove. 0.7 mile, begins west of main parking area.

• French Regional Park, Plymouth. 1.1 miles, begins near tram stop.

• Hyland Lake Park Reserve, Bloomington. 1.1 miles, begins southwest of visitor center.

• Lake Minnetonka Regional Park, Minnetrista. 0.9 mile, begins northeast of gatehouse.

• Noerenberg Gardens, Orono. 0.4 mile, garden paths.

For more information about “Trails At Your Pace,” visit www.threeriversparkdistrict.org or call 763/559-9000.

Autumn hiking adventures

Starting in September, Three Rivers will challenge visitors to hike any four of 11 designated trails to become eligible to purchase a special medallion, issued annually, and be entered in a drawing for a photo of a park landmark. Complete eight or more trails to be entered in a drawing for one of three larger photos.

Stamped hiking verification cards must be turned in by November 10. Verification cards and maps are available at Three Rivers’ visitor and nature centers.

Green Fit Club

Between September 1 and October 30, Three Rivers instructors will help Green Fit Club participants start an outdoor exercise routine. The program will involve hiking, yoga, paddling and rock climbing and convene on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Call 763/559-9000 to reserve space.

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