One day in the late fall of 2020 we were having an emotional day at home. We were months into quarantine and feeling low being in a new place with no friends. In hopes of raising morale, one weekend I drove to the Belvoir neighborhood in the Brainerd area to set up a scavenger hunt.
There is a 3-mile “urban hike” trail loop that winds through the neighborhood marked by 20 birdhouses aptly called the Belvoir Bluebird Trail. At each birdhouse I left a “clue” and a small trinket that connected to the next clue. I had arranged to hide some snacks in the mailboxes of some colleagues from work. We also drew up a treasure map that my kids followed to get from point to point. It was a magical afternoon full of excitement and wonder!
The Belvoir Bluebird Trail has a mission: promote a healthy population of bluebirds in the area. In addition to the 20 birdhouses from the trail, there are 7 larger birdhouses designed by the University of Kentucky, and individual, private birdhouses. The number of fledglings has steadily increased from the trail’s beginning in 2006 to a rough estimate of 560.
It is a very safe neighborhood to walk, scooter, and ride bikes. The neighborhood has a cautious driving culture, in part due to the winding roads and roundabouts, but mostly because of the general values of the community. There are a couple places with larger hills that may present a bit of a challenge to some, but the majority of the trail is relatively flat.
There is an accurate trail map with birdhouse locations and directions at the “trailhead”. The start and the end of the trail is located at Triangle Park (4402 Mayfair Avenue), the community green space. Depending on when you go, there may be printed guides for the trail available.
Have fun out there dads!
