The Vast Minnesota Swamp That Is Full Of Interesting Attractions
By Betsy Rathburn|Published May 16, 2019
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Betsy Rathburn
Author
Betsy is a Minneapolis-based writer who's lived in Minnesota for 20 years. If you know of any amazing Minnesota restaurants, nature areas, or other attractions, feel free to let her know about them at brathburn@onlyinyourstate.com or on Twitter @betsyrathburn.
Minnesota is well known as the Land of 10,000 Lakes. But that’s not the only water contained within our great state. Not only are there rivers, ponds, and waterfalls, there are also wetland areas that are crawling with wildlife. One of the largest is the Louisville Swamp located within the sprawling Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge. This vast swamp is full of activity, and it’s well worth visiting for all nature lovers from Minnesota and beyond.
The Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge is an enormous refuge in Bloomington, Minnesota. Address: 3815 American Boulevard East, Bloomington, MN, 55425
The refuge covers 14,000 acres and is made up of more than 10 different units. Each one has unique offerings, from lovely hikes to peeks at the state's largest great blue heron rookery.
Across all of those acres, there is much to do. For one thing, the Louisville Swamp has 13 acres of hiking and cross-country skiing trails. They do flood occasionally, so be sure to check before you visit.
Ducks, herons, and swans are just a few of the birds you might see flying over the marshy lands. Otters, skinks, fishes, and many insects also make homes here.
The animals aren't the only wildlife to discover. Unique flowers and other foliage are on display. You can even find wild berries growing around the swamp!
Other natural attractions include a gigantic boulder known as the Louisville Swamp Boulder. Left by receding glaciers, it's 15 feet tall and is a popular spot for rock climbers to practice.
All in all, the Louisville Swamp Unit of the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge is an unexpectedly beautiful place to get outdoors, experience Minnesota history, and see wildlife up close.
For more information about the Louisville Swamp, check out the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge website. If you’re interested in swamps, you may also be interested in exploring the unusual but beautiful Big Bog State Recreation Area.
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