Patch Picks: Best Area Parks for Summer Activities

Each week, Lakeville Patch will run a weekly feature called Patch Picks, highlighting editor and reader picks of great local businesses, destinations, services, organizations, and ways to spend a day off.

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 Summer is in full swing and there are plenty of summer activities to be had in the parks in and around Lakeville. Take advantage of these local resources and experience the great outdoors at these prime spots.

Swimming: Antlers Park – It can get crowded on the large sandy beach, but that activity is part of the allure. Volleyball games and playground laughter provide the soundtrack along with the occasional growls from the boats pulling tubers in their wakes. The aroma from an army of grills might attack your hunger, so be sure to bring something to munch on and a few refreshments if you’re spending the day.

Hiking: Ritter Farm Park – The natural terrain loops aren’t too strenuous and there are plenty of picnic tables hidden along the way that provide a place to rest or stop for lunch. The scenery is varied and includes the lake, wetlands, meadows, creeks and woods. And if you’re lucky, you’ll get a close-up view of the resident eagles.

Mountain Biking: Murphy Hanrehan – It’s one of the premier tracks in the metro area and includes more than 10-miles of off-road adventures to suit beginners and experts alike. It’s a nearby but popular location that attracts riders from far away. And one trek through the challenging wooded hills will easily explain why.

Canoeing/Kayaking: Lebanon Hills –Take your pick from several small lakes within the park or go on a five-mile lake-hopping adventure using the portage trails. The quiet oasis in the middle of the south metro provides pleasant paddling for canoeists, kayakers and even paddle-boarders. Equipment is available for rent.

Playing: North Park – Sure, there’s a bevy of colorful playgrounds around town that feature new-fangled equipment to climb, twirl, bounce, hang, swing and slide. But don’t let the drab brown color of North Park’s playground fool you. Turn your tikes loose on this Lakeville favorite and you may not find them for hours. The maze-like structure takes on an almost magic castle feel with plenty of old-school action for a full afternoon. And if you’re playing hide-and-seek tag (a popular North Park playground activity) just remember that your kids can fit into smaller places than you can.