Take a hike with an expert during the first Great Minnesota Woods Walk

The phrase "take a hike" isn't always negative.

A walk in the woods, especially during autumn in Minnesota, will help you unwind from the stresses of everyday life. A walk in the woods with an expert will help you connect more deeply as you learn more about Minnesota's amazing forests.

The Minnesota Forestry Association is hosting the first Great Minnesota Woods Walk statewide 1-3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 3.

In a recent conversation on the KAXE Morning Show, Executive Director Brian Huberty said, "One of my underlying goals in managing the Minnesota Forestry Association is to really bring home to people that the forestry sector in Minnesota is the only sector that really stores carbon."

He said long-term forest management will involve everybody, whether state, federal, public and private lands.

"You can't just put a fence around an old growth stand and think it's going to stay that way."

Forester Stan Grossman of Grand Rapids is one of the many leaders for the Great Minnesota Woods Walk. His property is dominated by mostly big white pine and red maples.

"I've been amazed at how much wildlife we see," Grossman said.

From a bear on his front step to Sharp-shinned Hawks nesting in the front yard, Grossman said even a small forest like his (located in a busy residential area) can help calm the mind and help folks connect to the outdoors.

Listen to the full conversation above.