Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge

The place

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge follows the Minnesota River valley through the southern Twin Cities. Unusually for a national wildlife refuge, much of it lies within a major metropolitan area, a few minutes from the airport. The Bloomington Visitor Center, on the bluff above the river, has exhibits about the valley's wildlife and history and is the starting point for trails down into the floodplain.

Events and programmes

The refuge runs public programmes such as guided walks, birding events, family activities and talks, many of them free. Programme schedules change through the year with the seasons and wildlife; the refuge's official page lists what is coming up.

History in brief

The refuge was established by Congress in 1976, after local residents and organisations pressed to protect the river valley's wetlands and wildlife from development. It is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and has grown through the addition of land units along the river.

Visiting with mobility equipment

The visitor center and its immediate surroundings are the most accessible part of a visit. Trails down the bluff involve slopes and, further into the floodplain, natural surfaces that can be muddy or flooded after high water. Ask staff which routes suit a wheelchair, rollator or someone who needs to stop often, and check for trail closures before setting out.

Good to know

• Binoculars and a field guide make even a short visit rewarding.
• Insects can be numerous in summer near the wetlands.
• The views from the bluff are worth it on their own if longer walks are not possible.