Parks, Sights, Travel

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, MN

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, 3815 American Blvd. East, Bloomington, MN 55425

I saw signs for the Wildlife Refuge from time to time, but I could never figure out how to get there.  Then one day I was visiting the Hilton in Bloomington for an event and I finally saw it.

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge 55

This refuge extends from Bloomington all the way down to Burnsville and beyond really.

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge July 008

Despite the fact that a good portion of this is river and swamp the mosquitoes aren’t bad at all.  In fact the path isn’t really near the swamp areas

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge July 011

You get to walk through flowers to start your journey down the path along the refuge.  If you are lucky you will spot a bird or two.  I have seen cranes and turkeys and hawks.  Most of the path is shaded and cool.  There are stretches that are open.

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge July 001

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge July 025

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge July 047

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge July 035

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge July 041

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge July 045

It really is a great place.