Ft. Snelling reopens to public following spring flooding closure
ST. PAUL, Minn. -- Ft. Snelling State Park reopened to the public on Monday after temporarily closing due to spring flooding.
The park has been closed since April 21. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources made the call for safety concerns because of the rising waters in the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers that touch the park.
Sherrill Ferazza of Eagan made her way to the park shortly after the gates opened to catch a glimpse of nature at its finest.
"We came in at 8 o'clock when it opened and there was quite a bit of fog but that also makes for some good pictures," she said.
Others like Steve Schmalowsky enjoyed the morning soaking up the sunshine with a walk.
"I know where the animals are at what time of the day," said Schmalowsky. "Early in the morning we usually get here."
Sandy Luther said Monday's weather was just a bonus to the park's reopening.
"It's ideal temperature right now," she said. "Tomorrow is the perfect day for my birthday, but this is pretty close."
While the park is back open to visitors, the DNR said visitors should be aware some parts of the park might still be closed including Pike and Picnic islands.
Rain from this past weekend is expected to push river levels back up a bit so park staff are getting together Monday to figure out if any other closures are needed.
Construction projects later this spring and summer will also require closing some areas.
Visitors can find more information on the state park's website.