Lt. Gov. Waives Park Fees For Family Festivities

Families looking to spend Thanksgiving weekend outdoors can do so without spending money. Minnesota Lieutenant Governor Tina Smith announced Monday that entry fees at all 75 state parks and recreation areas would be waived on Friday, November 25.

Smith says she plans to visit one of the parks on Free Park Friday, according to a press release.
“In my travels around Minnesota, I visit Minnesota state parks and recreation areas as often as I can,” she stated in the press release. “We have one of the finest park and trail systems in the country, and spending time in nature is the best way I know to get some exercise, relax and refresh with family and friends. I want as many Minnesotans as possible to enjoy a free day in the parks after Thanksgiving.”

Residents have been involved with different Minnesota state parks and trails system celebrations this year for its 125th anniversary. Through the end of September, overnight stays and one-day parks and trails permit sales rose by six percent, according to the Department of Natural Resources. Year-round permit sales also increased by eight percent.

“As a way to help celebrate the 125th anniversary of Minnesota state parks and trails, we’re encouraging visitors to see if they can go a total of 125 miles by bike, boot or boat by the end of 2016,” said Erika Rivers, director of the DNR’s Parks and Trails Division, in a press release. “Free Park Friday will provide an opportunity to add to your mileage, whether you’re near the end of the challenge or just getting started.”

Anyone interested in logging their 125 miles will receive a limited-edition sticker and can post their photo in an online Finishers Gallery at www.dnr.state.mn.us/125/125mile_finishers.html.

For more information, visit www.mndnr.gov/freeparkfriday.