On a warm summer day, the natural beauty our city parks in Coon Rapids is on display. Add the fact, it's also National Park and Recreation Month, which makes it a great time to embrace this year's theme: Where Community Grows.
"We decided this year to jump into that campaign and celebrate our parks and recreation here in Coon Rapids by highlighting many of the activities we already had going on in the city," said Recreation Supervisor Ryan Gunderson.
With more than 40 miles of trails and 50 parks to explore across the city, there's something for everyone. And best of all it's free.
Take Rec on the Spot, the mobile recreation program which invites kids, age five to 14, to do fun activities. And on July 27, they'll have a special 'water day' at Riverview Park.
"So we're planning to have the fire department and add some extra activities on that day at the Rec on the Spot afternoon program," Gunderson said.
You can give Burn Boot Camp a try at Lions Coon Creek Park. Franchise Co-owner Amanda Brauer will lead you on a free, 45 minute full body workout on Saturday, July 29 at 9 a.m.
The Coon Rapids Moms on the Run will have a free trial class for moms of all fitness levels on Wednesday, July 26 at 6:30 p.m. at Bunker Hills Regional Park.
And if you want to cool down from the heat, come inside the Coon Rapids Ice Center for a free public skate event on Friday, July 21 from 12:30-2:30 p.m.
"You can rent skates and there's also a concession stand there,” Gunderson said. “So we're just inviting the public out on that Friday to cool off and enjoy a free skate."
Go here for more information on local events for Park & Rec month.