Locke Park

Very nice, well-maintained park. It is within a large wooded area, has 3 parking lots, public restroom access, and plenty of benches throughout. It was very quiet on the trail when I visited, perhaps because it’s the winter season and fewer people are out and about. Regardless of the frozen landscape, there are many scenic views, one of which overlooks the river from a steep cliff (although caution signs seem to be missing). The trail loops around the entire park, so you’ll end up where you started.

Dear Minnesotans, the bugs are out! Don't let that stop you from taking the steep hill down by the peaceful water and trails. I saw an egret!

Nice paved pathway with an option for a non-paved trails through the woods. We appreciated it being dog-friendly.

++Good: multiple parking lots, giant oak shaded playground, extra large pavilion with grills, water fountain, fire pit, off leash dog park, bathrooms, forest canopy covered trails, circular trail routes, beautiful sights, bridges over creek. +Good: other small pavilions, off map trails, picnic table in dog park. +Bad: significant inclines on paved trails, mosquitos present on trails, bug spray recommend. ++Bad: none. ### Playground and giant pavilion are well shaded with large oak trees. Dog park is extra large and excellent. Cool sights to see where the trails take you to the creek. Always good to have circular routes for trails. Be weary as there are steep inclines and non paved trials. For the extra adventurous off map trails abound.

I visited this park for the first time recently, and I loved it!! It is a very peaceful place to walk around and see/hear all the sounds of nature that are around. The path leads you along the winding creek, and it is such a pleasant sound of the water flowing by while you are walking along the trail.