Today’s hiking adventure began at Quarry Park and Nature Preserve.
Ah, the crisp fall air felt wonderful as we began our hike into the park. There are many different unpaved trails throughout the park that weave around the 20 different quarries. Saint Cloud Red Granite was quarried from the land with operations ending in the mid 1950’s. Quarry Park and Nature Preserve opened in 1998. Along with hiking, biking and skiing, people are able to swim, SCUBA dive and rock climb in designated areas.
Old mining equipment can be found throughout the park. My favorite was the gigantic granite saw blade.
Giant rock piles are seen all over the park. The mining term for these piles is Grout Piles.
One of the grout piles had an observation deck at the top.
The quarries are stunning. The water mirrors the landscape that surrounds it.
Along with the amazing quarries, the park offers wonderful trails through wetlands and prairies.
The quarries created a humid environment which the mushrooms appeared to enjoy.
The leaves are just beginning to change.
Today’s amazing hiking adventure was 8.4 miles.
Neaton Adventures 