
Westwood Hills Nature Center Marsh and Woodland Trails
Twin Cities / St. Louis Park, Minnesota
Activity
Wildlife Boardwalk Hiking
Distance
1.5 mi round trip
Route
Loop
The adventure
Just west of Minneapolis, a quiet mosaic of marsh, woods and prairie shelters turtles, birds and other wildlife. The boardwalk and forest trails create an easy nature escape without a long drive.
Watch for changing wetland reflections, listen for bird calls and slow down at overlooks. The interpretive center adds useful context about the wildlife living beside busy neighborhoods.
ONCE YOU’RE THERE
Start at the main nature center, follow the signed wetland and woodland paths in a comfortable loop, and return to the building.
LOCAL INTEL
The city lists free admission and parking; trail access is sunrise to sunset.
TRAIL CONDITIONS & SAFETY
Stay on boardwalks and designated paths to protect marsh habitat.
BEFORE YOU GO
Check the current land manager’s trail map, access restrictions and weather before traveling.
What to expect
- Just west of Minneapolis, a quiet mosaic of marsh, woods and prairie shelters turtles, birds and other wildlife.
- Scenic public trails and a distinct local landscape
- Opportunities to pause, explore and observe the surroundings
Good to know
- Arrival and parking
- Use the nature center entrance on West Franklin Avenue and the designated visitor parking. Pick up a trail map at the building or trail kiosk.
- Local intel
- The city lists free admission and parking; trail access is sunrise to sunset.
- Safety
- Stay on boardwalks and designated paths to protect marsh habitat.
- Fee
- Free — no required entrance or parking fee.
- Entrance fee
- No admission fee listed for this activity; check parking and special-use charges.
- Dogs
- unknown.
- Season
- Year-round, sunrise to sunset.
Photos

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