Name: Intro to Hiking: Wilkie
Start: 2026-04-26T13:00:00-05:00
End: 2026-04-26T14:30:00-05:00
Location: 3815 American Blvd E, Bloomington, MN, United States, Minnesota 55425

The snow is melting and creatures are coming out of hibernation - so should you! Step outside for an afternoon of introductory level hiking with refuge staff and volunteers while we explore what spring has to offer.
This program is intended for all ages as an introduction to hiking and refuge trails. No experience necessary - we're here to show you the ropes! Registration optional. For information on trail conditions, please read the accessibility section. Meet us at the kiosk at the Wilkie Unit Trailhead.
Registration optional here: https://signup.com/go/gPPrWjW
Optional 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!
This is an easy to moderate outdoor activity. We hope to reach 2-2.5 miles in 1.5 hours. This will be guided by refuge staff and volunteers. Frequent breaks will occur.
This is an easy to moderate outdoor activity. We hope to reach 2-2.5 miles in 1.5 hours. This will be guided by refuge staff and volunteers. Frequent breaks will occur.
Accessibility at the Wilkie Unit Trailhead:
There are no restrooms or water located at this trailhead. The Minnesota Valley State Trail is a paved flat route, and the Blue Lake Trail is natural surface and mostly flat. Depending on seasonal trail conditions, natural surface paths may be muddy (summer) or snowy (winter). Paths may not always be suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. There are no benches or rest areas along the route. The trailhead is <0.1 miles from the parking area.
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 [email protected].
Questions? Contact [email protected] or call (952) 854-5900.
Photo of Blu Lake Trail Courtesy of Melisa Rodgriguez
Alt Text: a small stream runs through a lush green landscape and trees rooted in rocky earth.