St. Paul, Minnesota – Warmer weather and clear skies allowed Fort Snelling State Park to reopen on Friday, but it took weeks of cleanup to get there.

The Park Closed June 22 due to flooding on the Minnesota and Mississippi rivers. On Saturday, people were out exploring again and enjoying the scenic views.

“I love this park,” smiled Eme Lenick. “I come here to find peace.”

“It’s a peaceful place, you can come here and get away from everything,” said Gwen Holmberg.

She has enjoyed the view in the park for the past 30 years, but that ended seven weeks ago with the park’s temporary closure.

Incessant rain caused the waters of the Minnesota and Mississippi rivers to rise, flooding the main road and several hiking trails.

The water has receded but left behind mud and debris. Some areas of the park are still closed due to ongoing flood cleanup efforts.

“Much of what we have been able to repair in recent weeks is only temporary for now until we can send contractors to do the work permanently,” said Ali Schmitz, deputy park director.

Areas include the restrooms and picnic shelter on Picnic Island, hiking trails on the Minnesota River side of Pike Island, and the Caspersen boat ramp on the Minnesota River near the Cedar Avenue Bridge.

For park visitors, the change of terrain is no reason to deter

“I just wanted to come here, it was exciting,” smiled Holmberg. “It’s been a long time since we were here.”

Naturalists will lead hikes on Sunday to explore the effects of the flooding.