Follow A Peaceful Forest Bathing Trail In Minnesota S Silverwood Park

Have you ever heard of forest bathing? Despite how it sounds, it does not involve soaping up in the middle of the woods. Forest bathing is the practice of immersing oneself in the forest atmosphere, a concept that first found a foothold in Japan in the 1980s. Forest bathers put away their phones and other devices, and they work on taking in the forest through all of their senses.

While forest bathing is still a new concept for many, it is slowly catching on. In Minnesota, a recently certified forest bathing trail invites visitors into the woods, where they can engage in a unique form of meditation as they take in the forest’s sights, sounds, smells, and feel. Sound interesting? Read on below to learn more about the trail.

Silverwood Park is a beautiful park in St. Anthony, Minnesota. It’s just outside Minneapolis, a part of the Three Rivers Park District.

Amando K./Google

The park is home to the Silverwood Trail, the first official forest bathing trail in the state of Minnesota. It has been certified by the Association of Nature & Forest Therapy.

Monica Jeffery/Google

The trail is just 1/4 mile long. But it is recommended that forest bathers spend around two hours on the trail.

Mark Frick/Google

The trail is meant to be a place to meditate. Choose a place to stop and close your eyes, and you’ll be surprised by how long you’ll stay.

Fanuel Muindi/Google

Signs along the trail invite bathers to engage their senses. They ask you to feel the sun and breeze, listen for sounds, and more.

Jackie Gabrielson/Google

If you’re looking for a place to disconnect from electronics and reconnect with nature, the forest bathing trail might be the place for you.

Carrie Wilmot/Google

It’s a wonderful place to begin the practice of mindfulness, one you can carry to other forest trails and beyond!

Three Rivers Parks

Would you try forest bathing? Will you visit this unique trail? Share your thoughts in the comments! And if you know of any other interesting nature destinations in Minnesota, be sure to let us know by filling out our nomination form.