There is more than meet’s the eye at Gateway Park in Emmons. Follow the trails on the south side of the park in any season and they lead through woods along State Line Lake to a point with a view of the lake on three sides. Hikers will encounter trees that bend over the trails, like this one.
There are places along the hike where choices must be made. Don’t fret, trails big and small leading away from the main route return.
When hikers reach the point, they discover more land. State Line Lake is low, so they can walk on the revealed bottom of the lake for another 30 yards.
An abandoned nest remains hanging on small branches right along the main trail.
Hikers who look up will find a maze of branches criss-crossing the view.
People are not the only creatures using the trail to the point of State Line Lake at Gateway Park. Footprints reveal routes animals take.
About Tim Engstrom
Tim Engstrom is the editor of the Albert Lea Tribune. He resides in Albert Lea with his wife, two sons and dog.