The Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge is a stunning urban oasis that provides habitats for diverse wildlife along the Minnesota River. Spanning over 14,000 acres, it offers visitors opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and nature photography amidst beautiful wetlands and woodlands. Just minutes from the Twin Cities, this refuge is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers year-round.
Nature & Wildlife Area
Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge
575 Google Reviews
Great place for a little hike or some time in nature without having to drive far out of the cities. I was able to see a hawk and a possum pretty close up from their observation deck!
Date of Visit: 02.23.25 – Clean & modern visitor center with restrooms, a wonderful gift shop (w/ bird enamel pins!), and an auditorium with a 7-minute movie on the area. If you go beyond the Visitor Center outside, you’ll find some awesome walking trails (some include steps with significant incline). Unfortunately, at the time we visited, the snow was melting so the trails were quite slick – we’re excited to return in the spring after the trails dry up. Lost a star because the gift shop didn’t have any postcards (they had folding greeting cards instead) – tough to find postcards in today’s day & age but folks still like to receive them.
Closed Monday and Tuesday (Aaarg!). I enjoyed walking the trails, viewing the prairie gardens, and viewing the vistas and close-ups of the Minnesota River Valley. Cool and powerful telescope on deck–no quarters needed!
Pretty and short walk full of various bird species. Nice stop if you’re in the area. The center is beautiful inside as well.
Wonderful place with activities and nice trails for people and dogs. Multiple trailheads so get a map!
Lovely place! A must come to watch all kinds of birds. There’s trails definitely to immerse in nature, and great plane views ! 🌳 🐦
Ran the Long Meadow Lake Trail as an out and back on a beautiful November day. I was hoping for mostly single track, but the first 2-3 miles are packed silt or fine gravel two track. Eventually it did turn into single track and was a pleasure to run. It’s nothing technical, but the views are great and the trail very enjoyable. I encountered a dozen or so turkeys and several dozens of waterfowl. I highly recommend.
Really great hiking trails, great for cardio and all together my top place to clear the mind, listen and hike. 62 miles of beauty and nature if you love the outdoors and love to hike. Easy and hard trails. Pick the battle… Beautiful Preservation..
