Nature Centers

Paul Bunyan Nature Learning Center
The Paul Bunyan Nature Learning Center encompasses a 65 acre preserve inviting visitors to enjoy 1.4 miles of prairie trails through grasses, Aspen, Birch and cattail marshes as well as 1.8 miles of wetland and forest trails through sedge grass meadows, mixed hardwoods and Jack Pine. Here you can observe a mated pair of trumpeter swans. The goal of the center is to provide a natural setting for people of all ages to learn about the wonders of nature in the northwoods.

Northland Arboretum
In the heart of Brainerd/Baxter lies the Northland Arboretum which boasts nearly 12 miles of trails for hiking and cross-country skiing. The Northland Arboretum provides opportunities to view nature at its best and showcases a verity of flowers, trees and wildlife among the 500 acres of natural beauty. The Northland Arboretum really comes alive when the snow flies and the cross country trails open. Then 20 kilometers of professionally groomed trails even feature five kilometers of lighted trails for evening enjoyment.

Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge
Just south of the Brainerd Lakes Area you'll discover Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge which harbors one of the largest nesting populations of greater sandhill cranes in Minnesota. The refuge offers the Platte River 3.5 mile long hiking and cross-country skiing trails. Birders enjoy a water-fowl observation deck overlooking Skunk Lake.