NEW ULM — Next Friday people can burn off some of their Thanksgiving banquet with a nice hike in a state park. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is waiving entrance fees to all Minnesota state parks and recreation areas on Friday, Nov. 29.

Research shows that spending time outdoors benefits children and adults, including improving mood, enhancing creative thinking and problem solving, promoting a conservation ethic, and improving physical fitness.

On Thanksgiving Day, the average American consumes about 4,500 calories. A brisk walk can burn 300 calories per hour.

“If you’ve never been to a state park before, this is a great way to extend your holiday a day further and get outdoors with family and friends to explore the natural beauty of our state parks,” said Erika Rivers, director of the DNR’s Parks and Trails.

“We hope anyone who visits Free Park Friday will return throughout the winter season — and beyond — to hike, snowshoe, watch wildlife or participate in naturalist-led programs,” Rivers said.

Flandrau State Park’s new telephone number of 507-233-1260. The park office will be closed Thursday, Nov. 28 and Friday, Nov. 29. If snow falls in the park, it will not be plowed until Saturday, Nov. 30, so park visitors are advised to take caution if there is any snow or ice in the park.

Old Dam Trail, Old Island Loop Trail and River Loop Trail, where steps are undercut from 2019 and 2018 park flooding, remain closed to the Schell’s Brewery property line. The trails are not part of the designated hiking club trail.

Park visitors are asked to not go around snow fencing/barricades/caution or danger tape that were installed to block off unsafe areas.

Flandrau State Park has two year-round electric heat camper cabins. Contact with park with any questions or visit the Lodging: Cabins and Guesthouses page for MN State Parks.

The City of New Ulm archery hunt is underway in the park and continues through Dec. 31, 2019. Hunters and their stands are located in the woods and do not face trails.

Park hours are 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Fort Ridgely State Park reports trails in good condition. All northern unit (horse camp) trails closed Nov. 1. All roads are open, except for the old group camp road off State Highway 4.

The main and horse campgrounds are closed for the season. The office was closed Oct. 20.

For more information, visit https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/