(KNSI) — If you’re not going shopping but still want to get out of the house on Black Friday, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is offering free admission to all 75 state parks and recreation areas that day.
No vehicle permit or day pass is needed. Families can drive in and enjoy the amenities like hiking and biking trails at no charge if they want to walk or pedal off their Thanksgiving feast. Certain parks will have naturalist programs or guided walks. The free admission doesn’t cover things like equipment rentals or overnight camping.
The DNR says the goal is to encourage families to spend time together with a walk outdoors. Research shows that walking offers multiple benefits, from increased creativity and better brain function to more flexibility and stamina. So you won’t just burn calories, you’ll also improve your well-being.
Minnesota state parks are open year-round, and there’s a state park within 30 miles of most Minnesotans. If you want to enjoy more parks, an annual vehicle permit costs $35. A day pass is $7.
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