BLOG: The 10 Most Scenic Places in IGH

Earlier this week, I posted a couple articles on Patch, together with an online survey at www.JoeAtkins.com, about the issue of preserving open space and woodlands in Inver Grove Heights. 

Like all of the Patch readers who posted comments and 95% of the respondents to my online survey, I am convinced that preserving woodlands, wetlands and open space in Inver Grove is a key facet to our community’s future. It is one of main reasons why many of us who grew up here, stayed here, and why many who moved here, chose here. Interestingly, I have found that’s true not just for residents, but for many business owners as well. Our woods and ponds and open spaces are one of the things that set Inver Grove apart from many other communities.

So, at the risk of starting an argument over which of these spots is the best, here are my top 10 picks for most scenic places in Inver Grove.  Each one is publicly accessible, either on foot, by bike or by car.  And each one reminds us why - as we attract high quality developments to IGH - preserving some open space is important, too.

10. Simley Pond.  Right in the middle of town at 80th & Cahill, recent measures at Simley Pond to control erosion, geese and algae growth have really helped preserve this amenity.

9. Inver Hills Community College campus. A striking new clock tower built with private donations and a hiking trail through the woods will surprise those who haven’t explored this hidden gem.  The entrance to Inver Hills is at 80th & Blaine.

8.  Inver Glen Library.  Try grabbing a book and heading outside at Inver Glen.  You’ll find shaded benches, a garden, and even a wooded, cross-country trail shared with Simley High School.  The trail leads to a pond with a pier.

7. Lions Park.  If you haven’t enjoyed the fishing pier or walked the miles of trails that start at Lions Park, you are missing out. Located at 65th Street & Blaine Avenue.

6. Marcotte Chain of Lakes. Among the most pristine in the metro, this chain of eight lakes surrounded by woods and paths will be much more accessible if the on the Grannis/Lindberg parcels goes through. Right now, the lakes are only viewable from the roads near Ann Marie Trail and South Robert.

5. Mississippi River Park. One of the few spots in IGH with direct river access, River Park boasts great views, plus picnic tables, grills and fishing. 78th Street to River Road.

4. Valley Park. Though you sometimes feel like a billy goat while hiking here, the spectacular views in reward the extra effort. 70th Street between Cahill & Blaine.

3. Rock Island Swing Bridge. I never imagined the views up and down the river from here would be so cool. Just a few days from being torn down in 2009, Governor Pawlenty signed a moratorium to stop the demolition, giving supporters one last chance to save it. I’ve heard that preserving and restoring the award-winning cost about the same as tearing it down.

2. Harmon Park Reserve. Bring your bike.  is best experienced on two wheels, but it is a nice hike as well. Located just off 55th Street on Asher Avenue.

1. Pine Bend Bluffs along the Mississippi River. This property is some of the most coveted in Minnesota, with a forest of old oaks and some of the most spectacular river views anywhere along the Mississippi's 2,320-mile length. The Pine Bend Bluffs are accessible at 111th Street from the Highway 52/55 east frontage road.

These are my top picks.  As always, I would welcome comments and input, either by posting below, emailing me at Rep.Joe.Atkins@house.mn, or by giving me a call at the Capitol at 296-4192.