5k Route along Forest Loop and Rapids Lake Trail

A 5k route at Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge in Carver, MN. This route starts from the Rapids Lake Visitor Center, following the asphalt trail until reaching the forest loop trail. This mostly level trail courses through oak and hickory forest, with a brief view of a slough connecting to Long Lake. After this short loop, continue along the Rapids Lake trail, which follows river bottom forest and marsh for much of its length. At 0.6 miles, you will pass a pond at the base of the ridge. River rapids can be viewed (at low river levels) 1.0 mile from the visitor center. Return along the same path to the Visitor Center. Look for tracks from raccoons and deer.