Rydell Refuge Trails

The Rydell National Wildlife Refuge is located in Erskine, Minnesota. Included in Rydell Refuge's 2,120 acres are several diverse habitats and the beginning of a seven-mile trail system with five different dog-friendly trails to choose from.

The park's five trails include the one-mile Church Lake Trail, the 1.5-mile Golden Pond Trail, the one-mile Round Lake Trail, 0.5-mile Rice Lake Trail, and the 2.25-mile Tamarac Trail. Each of the trails, with the exception of Tamarac Trail, is paved, which makes them ideal for wheelchairs and strollers. Visitors with special access needs are encouraged to contact the refuge before their visit to help them make the most of their time there.

The longest trail in the park, the Tamarac Trail, takes about an hour to complete. This gravel loop trail will take you around Tamarac Lake, and along the way, you'll spot a variety of wildflowers, ironwood, and tallgrass prairies. This particular trail also focuses on showcasing native/non-native and invasive/non-invasive plant species.

Another pawfect hike in Rydell Refuge is the Golden Pond Trail. This paved path will take you and your dog through forest, wetland, prairies, and around a lake. If you're interested in bird watching, the spring and fall are the best time to hike this trail.

Every October, the Rydell Refuge hosts special whitetail deer hunting events. They also host deer hunting days for disabled hunters, as well as young hunters who will also take part in an educational session. Be sure to plan accordingly if you have a timid pup.

Your dog can come along to the Rydell Refuge with you as long as they remain on a leash in all areas of the park. Be sure clean up after your pet along the way. There are garbage bins in the park, but visitors are asked to supply their own doggie bags.