Jun 28, 201107:42 PMThe Bucket List
Leif Erikson Park
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I have wondered, on various occasions, if I have what is dubbed “restless leg syndrome.” My legs are almost always moving—tapping, twirling, swinging, bouncing, etc—and it’s very hard for me to sit still. If I can’t get the wiggles out through random movements I admit defeat, get up from my chair, leave my book or writing project, and strap on the rollerblades. When I need a just-right excursion, the Lakewalk is a top choice: the perfect length, beautiful scenery, public, hills and curves, and the nice downhill ride through Leif Erikson Park.
I’ve done the route so many times that I can see it perfectly in my mind’s eye. Regardless of the direction, coming into the topographical dip of Leif Erikson Park is like passing through a narrow hallway and walking into an open room. The trail divides, framing the grass bowl of a field, and you could continue on your course or roll down to the stone stage that complements the natural theater space. Just beyond the stage are a few thin trails that lead to the shoreline of Lake Superior. These pieces of Leif Erikson Park claim a simple beauty and many Duluthians, especially lovers, have taken advantage of its amenities by packing for a picnic or posing for photos.
Besides its beauty and natural theater qualities, Leif Erikson Park is also a tribute to history. The park is named after the Norwegian explorer who discovered America in 1000A.D. A memorial of Leif Erikson stands in the Rose Garden and the restored replica of the ship he sailed to America.
Duluthians may utilize Leif Erikson Park in the daylight, but since 2006, we have enjoyed it together at night under the stars. Twin Ports Outdoor Movies puts on Movies in the Park every summer for the public to enjoy for free. Friday nights at Leif Erikson Parks host a large blow-up screen on the stone stage to bring a good movie to as many people can fit on the bowl-shaped field. This year, the movies start in July and continue to the beginning of September so there is ample time to plan for a movie night at a unique theater!
Strap on the rollerblades, tie your shoes, pack a blanket and head to Leif Erikson Park morning, noon, or night to enjoy another Duluth community gem!
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