09/30/2026
Please join us for a moderate-paced hike on the beautiful trails of Whitewater State Park . The route will be approximately 5.0 miles, and we expect to be hiking for about 3 hours. We will pause occasionally to enjoy the scenery.
All trails are unpaved with uneven terrain, including turf, ruts, roots, rocks, gravel, and possible mud.
-Meeting location: North Picnic Area parking lot, near the pedestrian bridge to the beach/Main Picnic Shelter. Please enter North Picnic Area into your map and not South Picnic Area.
-Date: October 3, 2026🕘 Time: 9:00 AM (brief introductions; we’ll start hiking at 9:10)
Minnesota State Park Vehicle Permit required: State Park vehicle permits can be purchased online before you arrive or using the QR codes found at the ranger station, if the office is not open.
-Road Closure: Hwy 74 is closed for North culvert replacement: Aug. 3 to mid-October 2026. Most of the park including park office, is still accessible from South entrance.
-Parking: Free parking is available near the meeting area.
-Route: This hike includes multiple bluff-top overlooks (Coyote Point, Signal Point, Eagle Point, Inspiration Point, and Chimney Rock). Expect several steep climbs and descents, long stair sections, uneven, rocky terrain, and significant elevation gain. The pace will be moderate, with frequent stops at scenic overlooks.
-Optional: Post-hike lunch for anyone interested, we’ll gather after the hike at:
Star Ocean Buffet 1320 Salem Rd SW, Rochester, MN 55902
-What to bring: Dress for the weather (layers recommended). Wear hiking boots or supportive sneakers. Bring water as needed. Optional lawn chairs for after hike socializing
Important: All regular hikers must be RASC members. If you only plan to participate in the organized walks, then you do not need to be a RASC member or sign the waiver. If you would like to participate as a guest to try it out, please click on the guest waiver button below in the coments to digitally sign our waiver.
