Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, United States

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge Travel Guide

Today in the United States: Jefferson Davis Birthday (3 Jun)

Trek Zone

National park

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the heart of the Minnesota region, the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge is a nature lover's paradise. Spanning over 14,000 acres, this refuge is a haven for a diverse range of wildlife, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking an immersive outdoor experience. Whether you're an avid bird-watcher, a nature photographer, or simply someone who enjoys exploring the great outdoors, this refuge has something to offer for everyone.

The refuge is home to a variety of habitats, including wetlands, grasslands, and forests, providing a rich and diverse ecosystem for both wildlife and visitors to enjoy. Visitors can explore the refuge through a network of trails that wind through the landscape, offering opportunities to spot a wide array of bird species, including bald eagles, herons, and waterfowl. The refuge also provides educational opportunities for visitors to learn about the importance of conservation and the wildlife that call this area home.

In addition to its natural beauty, the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge also offers a range of recreational activities, such as hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography. Whether you're looking to spend a peaceful day surrounded by nature or embark on an adventure-filled exploration, this refuge has something for everyone.

Established: 1976 (48 years ago)Elevation: 738 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 44°47'5"N, 93°26'55"W

Location

MinnesotaUnited States

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Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge Top Attractions

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge Attractions - What to See and Explore

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Black Dog Lake, Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area, Shakopee Historic District. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Nature • Natural attraction • Lake
Black Dog Lake
Black Dog Lake is a lake in Dakota County, in the U.S. state of Minnesota. The lake was named for Black Dog, a Sioux Indian.
Protected area
Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area
Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area is a 5,490-acre unit of the Minnesota state park system in the United States. The park is not continuous but is composed of waysides, four of which are strung along the Minnesota River between Shakopee and Belle Plaine.
Archaeological site
Shakopee Historic District
The Shakopee Historic District is a Registered Historic District in Shakopee, Minnesota that includes significant historical artifacts from pre-contact Native American cultures, pre- and post-contact villages of Dakotah people, and early white settlers.

Day trips

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Huntington Bank Stadium (Minneapolis), Water Park of America (Bloomington), U.S. Bank Stadium (Minneapolis).

17 milesNE
Sport venue, Sport, Arenas and stadiums
Huntington Bank Stadium, Minneapolis
Huntington Bank Stadium stands as a modern coliseum in the heart of Minneapolis, serving as a beacon for sports enthusiasts and a rallying point for the community. Opened in 2009 and situated on the campus of the University of Minnesota, this outdoor stadium is...
11 milesNE
Amusement park, Water park, Arcade
Water Park of America, Bloomington
The Water Park of America, located in Bloomington, Minnesota, is a splash-filled haven for families and water enthusiasts looking for a fun escape. This indoor water park, nestled in the heart of the Midwest, offers a wide variety of water-based activities suitable for...
16 milesNE
Sport venue, Sport, Concerts and shows
U.S. Bank Stadium, Minneapolis
U.S. Bank Stadium stands as a modern marvel in the heart of Minneapolis, a testament to the city's passion for sports and architectural innovation. This state-of-the-art sport venue, home to the NFL's Minnesota Vikings, opened its doors in 2016 and has since been a hub...
9.1 miSE
Winter sport, Park, Ski area
Buck Hill, Burnsville
Buck Hill, nestled in the city of Burnsville, Minnesota, is a premier destination for skiing enthusiasts in the Midwest. This winter sports hub offers a range of slopes to cater to various skill levels, from beginners to seasoned skiers.
17 milesNE
Sport venue, Sport, Arenas and stadiums
Mariucci Arena, Minneapolis
Mariucci Arena, a beacon of collegiate ice hockey, stands proudly in the heart of Minneapolis, United States. This premier sports venue is home to the University of Minnesota's Golden Gophers men's hockey team, a powerhouse in the collegiate circuit.