Too much turkey and pumpkin pie on Thanksgiving? Instead of heading to the stores on Black Friday, grab your coat and opt outside! There are free and low-cost hikes, nature walks, and family events happening at parks around Minnesota on Friday, November 27, 2026, plus FREE admission to every Minnesota state park.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, meaning Jinxy Media may earn a small commission on qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, Jinxy Media earns from qualifying purchases.
You can always head to your favorite park or trail, but joining an organized event is a fun way to explore somewhere new, learn something from a naturalist, and maybe even win a prize!
FREE Minnesota State Parks Day
All Minnesota state parks offer free admission on Black Friday, with no vehicle permit required. It’s the perfect day to explore one of the state’s 75 parks and recreation areas!
Black Friday Hikes and Nature Events
Here are the Opt Outside events we found around the state, listed by city.
Battle Lake: Glendalough State Park
Forest Bathing Walk · Ages 16+ · Registration required – 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Slow down after the holiday rush with a quiet, guided forest bathing walk led by a certified forest therapy guide, with a cup of tea at the end. It’s limited to 14 people, so call the park at 218-261-6900 to save your spot. Meet at the Dining Hall and dress for the weather.
Brooklyn Park: Mississippi Gateway Regional Park
50+ Adventures: Opt Outside Hike · 10:30 am–12 pm · $6 per person
Adults 50 and up can enjoy a social hike along the Mississippi River with Three Rivers’ Outdoor Recreation School. If there’s snow, the group will switch to snowshoes or traction devices.
Center City: Wild River State Park
Bat Walk · 10–11:30 am
It’s Bat Year at Wild River! This 1.25-mile walk includes games, activities, and stories about Minnesota’s 8 bat species. You won’t see real bats this late in the year, but you’ll “meet” all eight along the way.
Center City: Wild River State Park
Woodpecker Walk & Talk · 2–3:30 pm
Make a day of it at Wild River with an afternoon one-mile stroll to look for the park’s seven woodpecker species, including the rare red-headed woodpecker, and learn about the oak savanna restoration happening in the park.
Dayton: Eastman Nature Center
Opt Outside: Family Nature Hike · 10–11:30 am · FREE
Take an easy hike with a naturalist, look for signs of animal activity, and play games along the way. All ages are welcome.
Mankato: Minneopa State Park
Family Nature Walk · 10:30–11:30 am
Join the park naturalist for a leisurely, mostly flat one-mile walk to look for animal signs and play trail games. It’s great for all ages.
Marine on St. Croix: William O’Brien State Park
Opt Outside Hike · 12 pm
Ready for a challenge? Burn off those Thanksgiving calories on a moderately strenuous five-mile loop with rolling hills, oak savanna, a beaver dam, and sweeping views of the St. Croix River.
St. Paul: Battle Creek Regional Park
#OptOutside Slowdown Group Hike · 10 am–12:30 pm
This roughly three-mile group hike follows a wide trail with a few gradual hills. The route loops back near the parking area several times, so it’s easy to cut your hike short if you need to.
Victoria: Lowry Nature Center
Opt Outside: Clue Hunt · 10 am–4 pm · FREE
Follow the clues along the Lowry trails to solve the mystery and win a prize! The 1–1.5 mile route takes 30–60 minutes and covers uneven ground. Trails won’t be plowed if there’s snow, so dress for the weather.
Tips for Opting Outside
- Dress in layers. Minnesota weather in late November can change quickly, so wear layers you can add or remove.
- Keep hands and feet warm. Toss a few hand warmers in your pockets, especially for the kids.
- Be ready for ice or snow. Slip-on traction cleats make trails much safer.
- Bring a warm treat. A thermos of hot cocoa is the perfect reward at the end of the trail!
- Check before you go. Some events need registration, and plans can change with the weather, so check the event page before heading out.
More Black Friday Fun
Make it a full day! Spend the morning on the trails, then head to a tree lighting that evening. Several Minnesota cities light their trees on Black Friday, including the brand-new Shine On Minneapolis block party at Peavey Plaza. Find one near you in our Minnesota tree lighting roundup.
Looking for more holiday plans? See our Ultimate Minnesota Holiday Events & Attractions Roundup and our list of holiday lights in Minnesota.
- About the Author
- Latest Posts
Laura is a kindergarten teacher and a busy mom of six who loves finding smart ways to save. She balances teaching and family life while always hunting for deals that make life more affordable and fun.
Originally from southern Minnesota, Laura has called the Twin Cities home for over fifteen years. In her rare free moments, she enjoys reading, spending time with loved ones, and savoring a hot cup of coffee.
Kristin B says
I love this idea! We usually go to a Christmas tree farm on Black Friday.