Details:
Believe it or not, the fall is often the perfect time of year to hike! With a chill breeze, bird migration, and gorgeous colors, our Intro to Hiking program makes for a prime excuse to get outside and enjoy the autumn season!With the guidance of refuge staff and volunteers, you will be walking about 2 miles on a trail in the refuge system. This program is for all ages and more information on the trails can be found in the Accessibility section. Registration is optional.Questions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900 (press 1 to reach Visitor Services).Date and Time: Saturday, September 13th, 2025 from 1-2:30pmLocation: Meet us at the trailhead kiosk at the Bloomington Ferry Trailhead11255 Bloomington Ferry Rd, Bloomington, MN 55438Registration Information: Registration optional through Signup.comOptional registration allows us to prepare supplies and materials for the program, send reminders, and allows us to contact you in the event of inclement weather!Activity Level: This is an easy to moderate active program. We will be walking a total of 2 miles and will be taking routine breaks. For more information on elevation and trail pavement type, please see the Accessibility section.What to Bring: We recommend wearing close-toed shoes, long pants, and weather appropriate layers. Please bring sunscreen, bug spray, and a full water bottle.Accessibility: There are no restrooms or water fountains at this location. There are no dedicated handicap parking spots. Bloomington Ferry and River Bottoms trails are natural surface, mostly flat, with entries to trails moderately sloped. Minnesota Valley State Trail is handicap accessible, paved and mostly flat, with access via a pedestrian bridge. Depending on seasonal trail conditions, natural surface paths may be muddy (summer) or snowy (winter) and may not always be suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. There are no benches in the area. Kiosk is a 0.1 mile distance from the parking lot.The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is committed to providing access to these events for all participants. Please direct all requests for sign language interpreting services, close captioning, or other accommodation needs at least ten business days before the event to Oscar Hernandez at oscar_hernandez@fws.gov.
