We hope you enjoy the park as much as us!
For those who love nature, including tall trees, a babbling brook and wildlife, Fritz Loven Park in Lake Shore is a must-see. Whether you’re looking for solitude or a great place for a family picnic, this 80-acre park offers something for everyone, including scenic Stony Brook, a picnic pavilion with electrical outlets, a playground, restrooms, and trails for hiking, snowshoeing and cross country skiing.
The park is named after Fritz Loven, who often said that after he died it was his wish that his property go to the city of Lake Shore. He felt it was the best way to be sure the land would remain a natural place for people to enjoy as he had.
Fritz Loven was born in 1894 in Minneapolis and settled on the 80 acres in Lake Shore in 1932. He was a lifelong bachelor known as the “lovable hermit” of Upper Gull. In the 43 years he lived there he had no electricity, running water, telephone, gas or a car. To get around he either arrived by foot, snowshoes or boat. He was a regular at the Bar Harbor Supper Club.
Loven normally planted 400 trees by hand each year. The property is resplendent with conifers — balsam, fir, black and white spruce, white and virgin Norway pines. He loved having people around enjoying his property and welcomed fishermen, picnickers and campers.
In October 1975, Loven died of a heart attack. His wish came true when in 1976 his sister, Ruthy Loven Buch, offered the entire 80 acres to the city for $18,000, an excellent buy even in the 1970s.
There were two stipulations. One was that she be assured something would be put on the property in memory of Loven, such as a plaque. The second was for the city to take care of all paper work in transferring the property.
The city honored both requests. Lake Shore, through a special grant, bought the property and designated it Fritz Loven Park. Funding for acquisition began in 1977 and the deed was recorded in 1978.
To find Fritz Loven Park: From Highway 371 in Nisswa, go west on County Road 77 through Lake Shore to Cass County Road 78 at Bar Harbor. Go right on Cass County Road 78 and then right on Ridge Road.
There are 2 other caches that we hid out there as well along the main hiking trail along the river. Look for those if you like as well! Enjoy!
From 371 take County Road 77 either from the north (Nisswa) or south (Baxter/brainerd), turn onto County Road 78 across the street from Bar Harbor. Take the first right onto Ridge Road, and follow the road a couple miles until you see Fritz Loven Park.