Wood Lake Nature Center

Hidden within the urban landscapes of Minnesota is a true green oasis — Wood Lake Nature Center. This preserve of approximately 60 hectares is located in Richfield, very close to the city of Minneapolis, USA. The site is a unique blend of mixed lowland forests, cattail marshes, and restored prairies surrounding a picturesque lake.

The center is the first municipal preserve of its kind in the region and serves as a vital sanctuary for migratory birds and diverse wildlife. For the convenience of visitors, there are about 5 kilometers of well-maintained trails and boardwalks that allow for a deep immersion into the natural world without disturbing its inhabitants.

At the heart of the preserve is the Interpretive Center—a modern building where professional naturalists conduct educational programs for children and adults. Here, you can find interactive exhibits dedicated to ecology and local flora and fauna, making a visit not only pleasant but also educational.

For those planning a visit to the Wood Lake Nature Center and looking to clarify details of an upcoming walk or educational programs, current contact information is provided below.

A walk through the preserve is, first and foremost, an opportunity to explore three miles of scenic trails. The main route features boardwalks directly over the marsh and through dense forest, offering excellent spots for birdwatching and observing waterfowl. Special observation platforms and docks allow you to get as close as possible to the lake's inhabitants while remaining unnoticed.

In winter, Wood Lake is transformed: the paths become an excellent place for cross-country skiing, and the snow-covered landscapes attract nature photography enthusiasts. During the warmer months, visitors often choose this spot for quiet walks or picnics in the shade of the trees, and the 100-seat outdoor amphitheater regularly serves as a venue for interesting environmental events.

Inside the center itself, it is definitely worth checking out the exhibit featuring an impressive taxidermy moose and exploring the seasonal displays. For those who want to learn more about nature's secrets, naturalists hold unique workshops: here you can learn maple syruping, the basics of beekeeping, or wilderness survival skills. It is an ideal place for a family holiday where children can learn about the world around them through play.

Getting to the Wood Lake Nature Center is easy, as it is conveniently located in the suburb of Richfield, just a few minutes' drive south of downtown. If you are traveling by car, follow Interstate 35W—you will need to take the 66th St exit.

For those who prefer public transportation, Metro Transit buses run from various districts of Minneapolis, stopping within walking distance of the preserve's entrance. Taxis or popular rideshare services are also always available, which is particularly convenient if you are coming from Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP); the trip takes about 15–20 minutes.

The center provides free parking for visitors. It is worth noting that during the summer months, the center's main trails are wheelchair accessible, making the walk comfortable for all categories of tourists.

The history of this place is a remarkable transformation: Wood Lake was once a popular recreational lake surrounded by residential homes. However, in the 1950s, during the large-scale construction of Interstate 35W, the hydrological balance was disrupted, and most of the lake's water drained away.

Instead of developing the vacated land, the Richfield City Council made a bold decision in 1969 to turn the area into a protected sanctuary. Thus, in 1971, the first municipal nature center in the state of Minnesota officially opened, serving as a model for similar projects across the Twin Cities region.

Fifty years later, the center continues to evolve. In 1991, the non-profit organization Friends of Wood Lake (FOWL) was established to actively raise funds and support environmental initiatives. Interestingly, old records from the 1930s describe the area as wild brush with a grove of poplars in the middle of a marsh—today, a complex and harmonious ecosystem is maintained here.

Currently, the center is undergoing another important phase—the construction of a modern interpretive building. As part of a project to enhance biodiversity, hundreds of native trees and shrubs are being planted on the grounds to preserve this unique natural corner for future generations.

To enjoy the atmosphere of the preserve at a leisurely pace, most visitors need about 2 to 3 hours. This is plenty of time to walk the main trails, take beautiful photos, and stop by the education center.

If your goal is strictly a walk along the loop trail around the lake, you can complete it in 1–1.5 hours. However, if you plan to attend a workshop, a naturalist's lecture, or have a full picnic in the designated area, it is better to set aside half a day for your visit.

The preserve grounds and its trails are typically open to visitors daily during daylight hours. As for the Interpretive Center, its standard operating hours are Monday through Saturday from 08:30 to 17:00, and Sunday from 12:00 to 17:00.

Please note that due to ongoing construction work, the center building may be temporarily closed to the public. It is recommended to check the official website for the latest information before your trip, although the walking trails themselves usually remain accessible to tourists.

A visit to the nature preserve can be perfectly combined with exploring other interesting sites in the southern part of the metro area. Exploring the surroundings will enrich your experience, as quiet park areas and some of the country's largest entertainment centers are located nearby.

For those traveling with family, famous water parks and themed amusement parks are within a short drive, where you can spend the rest of the day after a peaceful walk in the fresh air.