The Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge is one of only four urban wildlife refuges in the United States. Visitors to the Minnesota Valley Wildlife Refuge may enjoy a variety of year-round recreational opportunities less than 10 miles from downtown Minneapolis.

Because of its location along the Mississippi Flyway, the MN Valley National Wildlife Refuge makes an excellent bird watching destination. Among one of the most unique national wildlife refuges in Minnesota visitors can find more than 200 bird species, among them nesting bald eagles. Other Minnesota Valley NWR wildlife includes white-tailed deer, muskrats, red foxes and snapping turtles. The Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge also features a variety of habitats, such as lakes, marshes, oak savannas and floodplain forest.

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge recreational activities include deer and turkey hunting, fishing, boating, snowmobiling, hiking and biking. Wildlife photographers can satisfy their nature photography habit by reserving one of three photo blinds at the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge.

Special programs offered at Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge include beginning bird watching workshops, wildlife walks and orienteering classes.

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Minnesota Wildlife Refuge Location
The Minnesota Valley NWR covers 14,000 acres stretching from Fort Snelling State Park to Jordan, Minnesota, a distance of 34 miles. The visitor center for the Minnesota Valley NWR is located approximately one mile from the Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota. A 14-county Wetland Management District also falls within the auspices of the Minnesota Valley NWR.

Minnesota Wildlife Refuge
3815 American Blvd. East
Bloomington, MN 55425
Phone: (952) 854-5900
Fax: (612) 725-3279
Email: minnesotavalley@fws.gov

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