On the south edge of Bloomington, MN, a short distance from the Mall of America, you will find the MN River Bottoms Trail System. Especially in the fall, it’s a fun place for a bike or hike adventure while watching the annual fall wildlife migration. Here, while exploring, you can observe over 250 species of birds. I regularly use the trailhead located near the Old Cedar Avenue Bridge (See flag #4 below), which overlooks Long Meadow Lake. Here, from the trailhead, you can easily view the marshland of Long Meadow Lake, which is full of waterfowl activity this time of year.
For several miles, east or west, you can ride your bike or hike to find more wildlife observation points.
The Minnesota River Valley provides essential habitat for birds flying south. Look for waterfowl, raptors, and songbirds like white-throated sparrows, yellow-rumped warblers, and American robins. And shorebirds, including sandpipers and plovers, can still be spotted in the early fall.
The trails on the north side of Long Meadow Lake are for hiking only. If you prefer single-track trails for mountain biking or hiking, you must follow the paved trail south over the Old Cedar Bridge and towards the river. The trail also goes east and west at the river’s edge, giving you many observation points between the meadows and the Minnesota River. This trail is also safe for hybrid bikes; please stay on the existing trails.
The Bloomington River bottom trails
A ride or hike can be fun and as challenging as you want if you decide to leave the main path. The offshoot trails here are made of heavy soil with a mix of dried river debris. When dry, it may ride smoothly. However, Mother Nature’s unpredictability can quickly change the conditions of the trails, adding a few potholes you will have to circumvent.
For most of your ride or hike, the trail parallels the river, with a few trails leading you away around several backwater birding sanctuaries. Part of the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, this wilderness area is about a mile from the Mall of America.
Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge highlights
From the Minnesota Autobon Society, here is a Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge map with several essential fall viewing locations along the river that you may want to check out.
Flag 1—At Fort Snelling State Park, watch for Bald Eagles, Broad-winged Hawks, Cooper Hawks, and many other migratory birds gathering.
Flag 2 – At the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge Visitors Center, see over 250 species of birds, including Bald Eagles.
Flag 4 – Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge at the old Cedar Bridge overlooking Long Meadow Lake. From the bike/ped bridge or viewing dock, you have plenty of room to spot warblers and several species of waterfowl.
Fall, winter, spring, or summer plenty of wildlife to see
Escape to nature throughout the year in Bloomington, MN.
Why the trail is fun throughout the year
Additionally, bald eagles, owls, and hawks are commonly seen throughout the year.
When you are not exploring the banks of the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers and need a break from the outdoors, there are plenty of fun options to keep your visit exciting in Bloomington. Check out more in Bloomington.