This private 20-acre homestead located just north of Scandia. The site includes a terrific variety of habitat (hardwood, prairie, wetland, open water, bog) as well as bird feeders that are bound to run up the day’s bird count. For those who are interested, our hosts will top off the field trip with a demonstration of their hobby beekeeping and bantam chicken operations. It should be a fun and productive morning.

SUGGESTIONS     Wear comfortable closed-toe shoes for hiking and comfortable clothing and layers appropriate for the weather. Use sun protection. Bring water bottle, insect repellent, field guide and binoculars.

DRIVING DIRECTIONS     Drive time from Rosedale Shopping Center 45 minutes at the speed limit. Drive north on I-35 to exit 129 for MN97. Follow MN97 through Forest Lake. Continue east on MN97 to Scandia (approximately 11 miles from I35). Turn left (north) onto Olinda Trail N. Travel 1.9 miles to Pilar Rd. N. Turn right. Travel 0.2 miles. Driveway on left (this is the first house on the left (north) side of the street). Turn around in the driveway and park along the northside of Pilar Rd. Short walk along the driveway to the house.

DIFFICULTY     Easy to moderate; walking sticks welcome; lots of benches along the pathway.

LEADERS     Curt and Pat Hadland,  651-433-4314  curthadland@gmail.com  (email or call only if you need additional information)