We have two 10 ft. picnic tables on about 1/2 acre in mixed sun and shade under the oaks in the middle of our Arboretum. With a view of the pond you can watch the swans, geese, ducks and other animals that live there. This area is being developed to be lush grassy area with a group campfire area and with individual picnic sites with a pedestal grill.

Picnic Area

Trails

The Arboretum is under development and as most things in nature it will take some time for the final to be seen.

We are planting the three acres around the nature center with native Minnesota trees, shrubs, wildflowers and ferns.

This area will be one of our most important features. With nearly 6000 visitors and 1500 students each year the arboretum will provide educational and pleasurable viewing  of various gardens , trees and shrubs, and I can’t forget the ferns.

The Arboretum

This is what the picnic area should look like in the future.

Lupine

Highbush Cranberry

Meadow Rue

Wild Geraniums

Canada

Dogwood

Spruce

and

Balsam Fir

The Jack Pine Trail, is about 1/4 mile long that meanders thru a variety of habitats of upland hardwoods to lowland grass and shrubs, thru Jack Pine/Paper Birch and lots of ferns. This chip surface interpretive trail has two short boardwalks and signage to explain about the ecosystem. The wide variety of wildlife from deer to many different birds and even a Barred Owl now and then make it a favorite of many visitors.

Volunteers maintain the trails regularly.

The pond trail, this trail is a forty minute hike around the pond that takes you across wetlands, shrub carrs, mixed highland hardwoods and past the reality of development. The pond trail is always full of surprises, you just have to keep watch.

 

Gracie and Rex, live on the pond

Lilies on the pond

Cinnamon Ferns

The Rain Garden for the parking lot on the Jack Pine Trail.

Cub Scouts working on the Rain Garden.

Trail Maps coming soon