Sakatah Lake State Park

  One hour and 15-minute drive from middle of the Twin Cities to the park.  Visitor center does not open during the week. Trail head is located next to parking lot near Center.  No one in the park today so had trails all to me, along with the dog. Gentle rolling hills but easy to walk.  Found a flock of red winged blackbirds being very vocal.  Park is located next to busy road with lots of truck traffic maybe quieter when trees have leaves.  Bike trail goes directly through the park worth I drive back along with kayaking the lake.