How fortunate we are to live in a community where longevity is encouraged and supported through the many opportunities we have to be active. Most of the fun activities that Albert Lea has to offer are completely free for our daily use!

Our beautiful lakes provide us with activities such as kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, waterskiing and swimming. At the end of the day we can enjoy sunset walks on the Blue Zones Walkway, which encompasses our beautiful Fountain Lake.

Many trails and bike paths allow us to bike, walk, run, rollerblade and move safely around our community on our own “steam.” It is wonderful to have access to Myre-Big Island State Park and the Blazing Star Trail in all seasons for scenic hikes, snowshoeing and cross country skiing through the woods and prairies to view wildlife and just be out in nature!

We are fortunate to have city leaders who have made our downtown area more pedestrian friendly and have built and continue to support bike lanes and walkways for easy commuting around the city.

Community Education and Albert Lea Parks and Rec have been instrumental in supplying our community with unique opportunities to be active. They have provided us with disc golf courses, youth programs, neighborhood parks, a Community Boathouse, rock climbing wall, access to Nordic walking, water sports, archery, geo caching, sports equipment and dozens of classes that encourage movement.

Numerous active events are held in our community all year long, such as the annual Tiger Trot, the Family Bike Rodeo, Just Play and the Big Freeze encourage community involvement. These events make being active a community affair and provide an opportunity to not only be active but develop meaningful relationships that support our passions in life.

As we head into the summer months I hope you will commit to longevity, if you haven’t already, and enjoy the many fun activities that Albert Lea has to offer.

 

Catherine Buboltz

Albert Lea