South Trail, West Prairie and Lone Oak Loop

Starting your adventure near Mower County, Minnesota, the South Trail, West Prairie, and Lone Oak Loop offers a delightful 5 km (approximately 3.1 miles) journey through diverse landscapes. With no significant elevation gain, this loop trail is accessible to hikers of varying skill levels, though it is rated as medium difficulty due to some uneven terrain and potential muddy patches after rain.

Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transport. If driving, head towards the nearest known address, which is the Mower County Nature Center, located at 19499 540th Ave, Austin, MN 55912. There is ample parking available at the Nature Center. For those using public transport, the nearest bus stop is in Austin, MN, from where you can take a taxi or rideshare service to the Nature Center.

Trail Navigation For navigation, it is highly recommended to use the HiiKER app, which provides detailed maps and real-time updates. This will help you stay on track and explore the trail with confidence.

Trail Highlights #### South Trail Starting from the trailhead, the South Trail takes you through a serene woodland area. This section is approximately 1.5 km (0.9 miles) long and is characterized by dense foliage and a variety of native trees, including oak, maple, and birch. Keep an eye out for white-tailed deer and red foxes, which are commonly spotted here.

#### West Prairie As you transition to the West Prairie section, the landscape opens up into expansive grasslands. This part of the trail is about 2 km (1.2 miles) long and offers stunning views of wildflowers in the spring and summer months. The prairie is home to numerous bird species, such as the Eastern Meadowlark and Red-winged Blackbird. This area is also historically significant, as it was once traversed by Native American tribes and early settlers.

#### Lone Oak Loop The final segment, the Lone Oak Loop, is a 1.5 km (0.9 miles) stretch that circles back towards the trailhead. This part of the trail is named after a solitary, ancient oak tree that stands as a landmark. The tree is estimated to be over 200 years old and provides a great spot for a rest and some shade. The loop also features a small pond, which attracts various amphibians and waterfowl.

Flora and Fauna Throughout the hike, you'll encounter a rich variety of flora and fauna. In addition to the aforementioned wildlife, you might see raccoons, squirrels, and a variety of insects, including butterflies and dragonflies. The plant life is equally diverse, with seasonal blooms of wildflowers such as coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, and goldenrods.

Trail Conditions and Safety The trail is well-marked but can become muddy and slippery after rain, so appropriate footwear is recommended. There are a few benches and rest areas along the way, but it's advisable to carry water and snacks. Cell phone reception can be spotty in some areas, so having a downloaded map on HiiKER is crucial.

Historical Significance The region around Mower County has a rich history, with evidence of Native American habitation dating back thousands of years. The prairie sections of the trail were once part of the vast grasslands that covered much of the Midwest, and remnants of early settler activity can still be found in the area.

Embark on this trail to experience the natural beauty and historical richness of Mower County, Minnesota.