Grey Cloud Dunes SNA: Interpretive Hike with the Sierra Club

Leaders:
Kelly Randall: DNR Outreach Coordinator
Larry McCabe: SNA Site Steward
Michael Lynch: Botanist

Grey Cloud Dunes is situated on two sandy terraces along the Mississippi River offering breathtaking views of the Mississippi river valley. The sandy soil is home to unique plant communities in different habitats such as erosional faces and blowouts. Distinctive species adapted to the dry, sandy environment include little bluestem, penstemon, prairie dropseed, sand reed grass, gramma grass, silky prairie clover, among others. Rare sea-beach needlegrass occurs in several of the blowouts; purple sand grass, on bare sand areas. Louisiana broomrape and Hill’s thistles are also found here. North American (blue) racers, an uncommon Minnesota snake, live here.

Field trips are open to MNNPS members only and pre-registration is required. To register, send an email to: Ken Arndt <ken.arndt@mnrinc.us>