Earlier this week I was reminded of the relaxation and fun that can be found about 25 miles from the Twin Cities in Minnetrista, MN. Located near Whaletail Lake in Minnetrista, there is a 410-acre park featuring a working educational farm called Gale Woods Farm.
The farm offers unique experiences for visitors of all ages to learn about sustainable agriculture, food production, and land stewardship. On Saturdays, families and visitors can explore the park and barn, meet some of the farm animals, and even assist a Gale Woods farmer with chores. Other activities include sheep-herding demonstrations, hayrides, and garden tours. You can even get some of your shopping done for the week during your visit—they have a farm store where sell they meat, produce, natural yarn produced on their farm from their flock of sheep, local art, and books.
Gale Woods Farm also offers miles of hiking trails which offer views of undeveloped lakeshores and scenic wetlands. Even canoe rentals are available so you can paddle around on Whaletail Lake. The farm is open Saturdays from May to October. No reservations are required, and admission is $4 for people two years old and older. 7210 County Road 110 W., Minnetrista, MN 55364
While you’re out visiting Gale Woods Farm, consider stopping for a unique round of mini-golf at Big Stone Mini-Golf and Sculpture Garden. Just next to Gale Woods Farm to the west, Bruce Stillman’s 17-acre plot is home to goats, miniature horses, chickens, a bit of wildlife, and a mini-golf course featuring sculptures by Stillman. Check out this promotional video to see the golf course and hear more about the concept from Bruce Stillman. Big Stone is open 11 a.m. to sundown daily through the summer. Admission is $6 for adults, $5 for kids. 7100 County Road 110, West Mound, MN 55364
