Thrive! Park — Attraction in Nelson

This place is a hidden gem! We really enjoy hiking at National Parks and at the MN and WI state parks, and the hikes and views here are some of the best in the area! Be aware that many of the bluff trails I'd rank as difficult due to their steepness (if hiking had the same grading as skiing I'd call them black/double black hiking trails!). We have an 8 year old and a 10 year old, and they loved the trails so much they wanted to go back the next day, despite the challenge. I was huffing and puffing to get to the tops of the bluffs. We ended up doing the equivalent of nearly 80 stories of vertical ascent between the two bluff trails.

We saw soaring bald eagles and turkey vultures all around. The paths are very well marked and we met the wonderful man who donated the land, Chris. He was at his property at the base of the trails and we talked with him (from afar to socially distance). This really was a labor of love to the community to create this and we are so thankful. There are gorgeous benches and swings throughout the park that were made by Chris as well as fantastic scouting troops and high schoolers. The area was also pristine with not a speck of garbage anywhere, I suspect in part because people are so careful with this gem of a park and also due to Chris's tremendous efforts! Trails are really well marked with flags and signs. Definitely put this on your...

We took our two kids 5 and 7 not knowing anything about the park. Chris was there and have us a brief history of the trails. We were adventurous and took the trail to the bluff. It was definitely very steep getting to the top and wouldn’t do it in slippery conditions. But the views were totally worth it! We made the mistake at the top of accidentally following a road onto private property. Luckily we had grabbed the mapped and it had Chris’s number on it so he was able to get us back on the right path. Trails are very well marked so not sure how wet missed it. It is not your typical well manicured trail which makes it more unique and kids felt like they were really on an adventure.

So thankful he donated this land to the city to let people legally get to climb to the tops of the bluffs! We will definitely do it again next time we...

My fiance and I stopped out today because we happened to be close by at the creamery and felt like going for a hike. The owner came out, greeted us, gave us info about the land, directed us where to go, gave us advice on which trails to do, and even came out to ask how our hike went before we left. We had the entire trail to ourselves too. There are also overlooks/Scenic views that don't require much walking located behind their center. Will...