Situated nearly halfway between Minneapolis and Rochester, Nerstrand Big Woods offers a little something for everyone. Its well-maintained hiking trails feature a small, calming waterfall, and there are plenty of benches and water refill stations for added convenience. The park is family-friendly, with a playground and bathrooms near the visitor center. Picnic tables are abundant, making it a popular spot for outdoor lunches—we saw many families and even some dogs enjoying the area. It's also prepped for cross-country skiing in winter. Overall, a fantastic choice for a versatile outdoor outing.