Attractions and Places To See in Sherburne County - Top 10

Sherburne County offers diverse natural landscapes. You can visit the expansive Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge, which protects mixed habitats like oak savanna and wetlands, or explore the pine forests and open prairies of Sand Dunes State Forest. Additionally, the county features numerous parks such as Bridgeview Park Reserve with views of the Mississippi River, and Woodland Trails Regional Park, offering extensive trail networks through woods, prairies, and wetlands.

Yes, the Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge is an excellent spot for wildlife viewing, including eagles and loons. The Prairie's Edge Wildlife Drive within the refuge is open from late April through October and provides observation decks. You might also spot bald eagles, trumpeter swans, and otters near the Confluence of the Elk and Mississippi Rivers at Bailey Point Nature Preserve.

The most prominent historical site is the Oliver H. Kelley Farm in Elk River, a National Historic Landmark. Here, you can experience 1860s farm life, tour the historic farmhouse, and learn about 19th-century farming techniques. The Sherburne History Center in Becker also houses over 4,000 objects and archival materials related to the county's history.

Absolutely! Many parks and attractions are suitable for families. The Nature Play Area at Woodland Trails Regional Park offers a kids' adventure playland. The Oliver H. Kelley Farm provides an interactive historical experience for all ages. Additionally, the Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge and Sand Dunes State Forest offer easy trails and opportunities for nature exploration that families can enjoy together.

Sherburne County boasts an extensive trail system. You can hike the Mahnomen Trail in the Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge, which traverses prairie, oak savanna, and wetlands. Sand Dunes State Forest also offers various hiking opportunities. For a more extensive network, Woodland Trails Regional Park features about 10 miles of trails through diverse landscapes. Bridgeview Park Reserve and Grams Park also have trails for walking and exploring.

Yes, the Great Northern Regional Trail is a newly expanded paved trail, popular for biking, inline skating, and walking. It extends 8.5 miles from Elk River to Zimmerman. Woodland Trails Regional Park serves as a trailhead for this trail and has a 4.75-mile paved section within the park. For more cycling options, you can explore routes like the Woodland Trails Park – Lion's Park loop from Elk River Country Club, which is an easy 25 km ride. Find more cycling routes at Cycling in Sherburne County.

During winter, the Mahnomen Trail in the Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge is popular for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Sand Dunes State Forest also provides opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Many county parks with trails are suitable for snowshoeing and winter hiking, offering a different perspective of the natural beauty.

Many parks and trails in Sherburne County are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific park regulations regarding leashes and designated areas. Generally, dogs are welcome on trails in places like Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge and Sand Dunes State Forest, provided they are kept on a leash.

The best time to visit for outdoor activities largely depends on your interests. Late spring through fall (late April through October) is ideal for exploring the Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge, as the Prairie's Edge Wildlife Drive is open. Fall is particularly beautiful for viewing foliage in areas like Sand Dunes State Forest and the various county parks. Winter offers opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Yes, some facilities are designed for accessibility. The Picnic Shelter and Fire Pit at Woodland Trails Regional Park is noted as wheelchair accessible. The paved sections of the Great Northern Regional Trail are also suitable for wheelchairs. It is recommended to check with specific park offices for detailed accessibility information on trails and facilities.

For general use of trails in most county parks and state forests like Sand Dunes State Forest, specific permits for hiking are often not required. However, activities like fishing or hunting in designated seasons will require appropriate state licenses. For specific activities or facilities, it's always best to check the official website of the park or refuge you plan to visit for the most current permit requirements.

Sherburne County offers a variety of running trails, from paved paths to more rugged natural surfaces. Woodland Trails Regional Park has about 10 miles of trails, including paved and unpaved options. The Great Northern Regional Trail is excellent for longer, paved runs. For more options, you can find running routes like the First Lake loop from Bertram Chain of Lakes Mountain Bike Trailhead, a moderate 9.6 km run. Explore more running trails at Running Trails in Sherburne County.