Great Hike Traditional Geocache
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Size: 
(large)
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This cache is located at the northern edge of the central grassland in the park. It is towards the western edge of the prairie.
Geo-Caching at Quarry Park & Nature Preserve
A geo-cache has been placed within Quarry Park and Nature Preserve which is part of the Stearns County Parks Department. The cache is located at the northern edge of the central grassland. The coordinates for the cache are in the WGS 84 reference system. Those coordinates are Latitude 45.53339307 and Longitude -94.23430262. Initially the geo-cache will contain samples of St; Cloud Red Granite which was extensively quarried in this Park. In addition to the geo-cache located in the central grassland there is an Eco-Walk self guided walking tour which is explained below.
Eco-Walks at Quarry Park & Nature Preserve
Eco-Walks are self-guided walking tours that explore the natural history of Quarry Park, the largest public park in the Stearns County Parks System. Quarry Park & Nature Preserve is an exceptional location to explore and discover natural and human history, together evolving before your eyes. A quick survey of the park reveals scenic woodlands, open prairie, diverse wetlands, and both quarried and un-quarried granite bedrock. A deeper look tells a story of how Central Minnesota became one of the largest producers of granite in the country.
The Eco-Walk tour has twelve sites which exhibit the park’s unique natural features. At a relaxing pace the tour takes about two hours from beginning to end. You will cover 2.6 miles. This walk is designed to be done with a GPS unit and traverses rough terrain.
To access the online Eco-Walks Brochure go to (visit link)
CAUTION
This park is a former industrial quarry. Every effort has been made to maintain Quarry Park as it was left from its quarrying days in order to enhance its historical and natural value. Features you may encounter in the park include unstable grout piles; deep water filled quarries, steep ledges, and slippery rock outcroppings. For these important reasons, reading and following all posted signs within the park and complying with the Stearns County Parks Ordinance is critical for a safe and enjoyable experience here at Quarry Park.
For more information on the park including direction go to (visit link)
Current and Future Development
The park you see today represents only the first phase of a multiphase development plan for Quarry Park. Current uses for the park include:
• Diagonal stride cross-country skiing
• Hiking (Two miles of trail)
• Instructional SCUBA diving
• Swimming in Melrose Deep Seven
• Scenic overlooks
• Fishing ponds
• Environmental education
• Skate cross-country skiing
• Mountain biking
• Rock climbing areas
• Group camp
• Picnic shelter
Future uses will include:
• Interpretive center
• Granite industry interpretive exhibits
• An additional swimming quarry
• Amphitheater
• Interpretive trails
• Picnic shelter
NOTE: There is a 4 dollar per day fee to enter the park. Annual permits can also be purchased for 14 dollars. The park is an amazingly beautiful preserved space and well worth the minor expense.
Additional Hints
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