Rudy Kraemer Nature Preserve

The Rudy Kraemer Nature Preserve loop from Savage offers a delightful and accessible escape into nature, winding through diverse landscapes of wetlands, prairies, and woodlands. You'll experience a mix of natural trails, hard and soft surfaces, and a prominent boardwalk that crosses a wetland, complete with a viewing platform. Keep an eye out for turtles from the bridge over water and enjoy the prairie wildflowers and various bird species.

This easy hiking route is a quick 2.0 miles (3.2 km) with minimal elevation gain of 48 feet (15 metres), making it ideal for a leisurely 48-minute walk or a light run. The trails are generally well-maintained, but it's wise to stick to marked paths due to potential dense wood nettle in some areas. The preserve is located in Burnsville, near Savage, and provides a great option for a short, scenic outing.

Beyond the natural beauty, the preserve is notable for its commitment to habitat restoration, featuring a self-guided nature trail with educational stops and a chimney swift tower designed to support these declining bird populations. This makes the Rudy Kraemer Nature Preserve loop a great choice for families or anyone interested in learning more about the local ecosystem while enjoying a peaceful stroll.