Statewide scavenger hunt travels through Historic Stillwater

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A scavenger hunt is taking place throughout Minnesota following thousands of dollars worth of prizes. The point of this winter activity is to draw people out of their homes and witness what Minnesota can offer during the winter. Stillwater is one of the ten locations. “This year, there are 10 iconic checkpoint locations that showcase the diverse winter opportunities that are available in Minnesota,” Director of Explore Minnesota John Edman, says.

A scavenger hunt took place throughout the state of Minnesota for $35,000 worth of prizes and Stillwater was chosen to be one of 10 checkpoints. The point is to target tourists to come out, enjoy the weather and see what Minnesota has to offer during the cold but snowy months of winter.

Minnesota businesses often struggle greatly to get through the cold weather and keep business open. In hopes to draw more people to explore what Minnesota is all about during the winter, a scavenger hunt was set up in ten different locations. One of which was Stillwater. A sign was posted in front of the gazebo and the prizes range from snowboard and ski equipment to winter gear and MN Getaways. 

Scavenger hunts vary in every form, shape and color possible.

“Just the word ‘scavenger hunt’ makes me think of something for kids,” said musician Eric (Oly) Olson. 

However, do not jump to conclusions because scavenger hunts are meant for all ages.

“It all depends on the description of the scavenger hunt,” said Olson.

In this case, it was more focused on people that didn’t let the Minnesota chill get to them.

“CheckpointMN is aimed at anyone that is interested in travel, adventure, and the great outdoors,” said the Director of Minnesota tourism, John Edman.

There is much to do in Minnesota from hiking and touring state parks, to simply taking a drive along the river for a weekend getaway.

“Minnesota is a premier winter travel destination and outdoor winter activities like CheckpointMN are a great way for travelers to explore the state, have fun, enjoy the winter scenery and also win prizes,” Edman said.

This is the third year that CheckpointMN has been in action.

“This year, there are about 500 registered participants with over 2,000 check-ins! There have been over 7,000 total check-ins total over the past three years with over 2,000 registered participants,” said Edman. 

The ten checkpoints chosen were not just chosen randomly, either.

“We chose locations of interest as well as destinations that offer winter activities and events throughout the state which may include: National/State parks, ‘Roadside Attractions,’ museums, historic buildings/landmarks, sport arenas, ski areas, bike/hiking paths, skating rinks, etc.,” Edman said.

Edman and his crew set out to convince others to get outside and enjoy the ever-changing weather.

“Our main goal is to choose unique destinations in Minnesota that will motivate people to get outdoors in the winter and experience a trip they will never forget!” Edman said.

Due to the cold, there are typically less people outside during the winter months.

“If the cold shuts you in, plan on sitting around for 6 or 7 months and I just can’t do it. I’d go crazy,” said Olson. 

Getting outside can be difficult in any season but if the clothing is layered, there becomes less of problem to enjoy the outdoors.

“As long as you’re moving and you’re prepared it’s never too cold,” said Olson. “I think it might be too cold if the windshield is -40, when they close schools, but otherwise there’s enough layers,” added employee at Valley Bookseller, Carly Stipe.

Teenagers in Minnesota tend to pride themselves on stepping out into 30 degree weather wearing nothing but shorts and a t-shirt, but there is more to a true Minnesotan than that (and some might say that those teenagers are just plain silly anyway).

“[A Minnesotan] is then somebody that enjoys the seasons, and all [the seasons] bring,” Stipe said.

In having a scavenger hunt take place for 8 weeks during the coldest months of the year, more tourism is encouraged and the local economy benefits along with the mentality of those that got out and participated in the hunt. A break from the devices and little weekend adventures are what matter to the people of Minnesota. The cold is only a small obstacle, but not something to get in the way of one’s adventures throughout the state.

“We are Minnesotans,” Tony Riley, shift leader at Tin Bins, said.