Minnesota has many wonderful nature areas all over the state. Whether you like the rugged nature of the Boundary Waters or a more polished display such as Duluth’s Rose Garden, it’s easy to find something that you’ll enjoy. It’s even easier thanks to some areas, like Northland Arboretum, that offer a little bit of both. This beautiful arboretum near Brainerd, Minnesota, covers more than 500 acres, offering both the untouched beauty of a quiet forest and the colorful blooms that garden lovers adore. Next time you’re in central Minnesota, be sure to stop at this wonderful nature area. Read on to learn what to expect when you visit:
Northland Arboretum is a 583-acre nature reserve in Baxter, Minnesota. It’s just a few miles outside of Brainerd, or 125 miles north of Minneapolis in central Minnesota.
Google Maps
The arboretum has a lot to offer, including gardens, trails, and beautiful scenery. More than 12 miles of trails crisscross the grounds, leading to the most beautiful sights to see.
Adam Brown/Google
Along the way, you’ll be able to take in the natural beauty of nature. Visit in the fall to see the leaves changing, or in spring to see the budding trees begin to gain their leaves.
Ugh No/Google
If you love looking at colorful flowers, the gardens will also be a treat for you in the warmer months. Get some shade in the gazebo and enjoy the picturesque sight stretched before you.
Hydisia Bird/Google
Depending on the month, you’ll find many beautiful flowers planted here. It’s no wonder this space is often used for special events such as weddings.
Sharon Mollerus/Flickr
Of course, being a nature area, Northland Arboretum is home to many different species of wildlife. Feeders in the gardens attract beautiful backyard birds. You might want to bring your binoculars!
Northland Arboretum/Google
In the arboretum’s water features, you can often spot migrating birds like Canada geese. Visit in the springtime, and you might get lucky and spot some of their adorable babies.
Northland Arboretum/Facebook
Look a little closer and you’ll see hard-to-spot critters like colorful butterflies, reclusive deer, and many more animals.
Northland Arboretum/Facebook
All in all, Northland Arboretum is a wonderful way to spend some time outdoors if you’re in the central Minnesota region. For more information about the arboretum, take a look at their website and Facebook page. If you love exploring Minnesota’s gardens and natural areas, you’ll also enjoy our article about the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum.
Google Maps
Adam Brown/Google
Ugh No/Google
Hydisia Bird/Google
Sharon Mollerus/Flickr
Northland Arboretum/Google
Northland Arboretum/Facebook
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: Northland Arboretum, 14250 Conservation Dr, Baxter, MN 56425, USA
