quarry park

In a recent article, the Travel Channel rolled off its list of the 'Top Swimming Holes in America' -- and look what made the list: Quarry Park, the only spot in Minnesota to make their Top-Ten list. Of course it's no secret to us here in Central Minnesota. Happy Summer! No go jump in a lake quarry.

Being new to the St. Cloud area, I went on a search to plan for some outdoor water fun this weekend, and the quarries wins hands-down.

How many times have you been told to 'go jump in a lake?' Have you ever done it off a cliff? If you've ever been to Quarry #2 'Melrose Deep 7' -- you've likely witnessed folks making the jump into the deepest hole at Quarry Park and Nature Preserve in Waite Park, and it's one more reason to look forward to summer in Minnesota.

You can walk off the turkey and mashed potatoes Thursday as Quarry Park is hosting a Holiday Hike.

The 100-year old restored, wooden Liberty Derrick will come to life at Quarry Park & Nature Preserve this afternoon at 3 & 5:30 PM -- allowing you the chance to watch a piece of history. These derricks were used to lift huge blocks of granite from the quarry floors to the loading areas. Today a 2-ton block of granite will be hoisted from the quarry floor.

Stearns County is close to opening another swimming quarry. Quarry 11 at the Stearns County Quarry Park & Nature Preserve will provide more gradual slopes, swimming platform, bathrooms and picnic shelter for families.

Well, it hasn't stuck around yet, but I'm putting my money on getting some snow this winter. Once it's here, the Stearns County Parks Department will need cross-country ski patrol volunteers. Volunteers can sign-up online and will get a free Quarry Park annual sticker.