Near Carver Park Reserve - Lowry Nature Center
Close up of a cattail on the marsh.
Near Carver Park Reserve - Lowry Nature Center
On the Aspen Trail in late winter.
Near Carver Park Reserve - Lowry Nature Center
Sandhill cranes returning to Stone Lake at the end of winter.
Near Carver Park Reserve - Lowry Nature Center
Floating boardwalks guide you through the marsh.
Near Carver Park Reserve - Lowry Nature Center
View of Stone Lake from the observation area.

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Driving Directions
Hike Route

Carver Park Reserve - Lowry Nature Center

4.0 (4 Ratings)
This is the largest loop you can take on the hiking and snowshoeing trail.
3.8
mi
Distance
173
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
BirdingFall ColorsFamily FriendlyLakeViewsWildlife

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
3.78mi
Distance
173ft
Elevation Gain
173ft
Elevation Loss
15%
Max Grade
988ft
High Point
942ft
Low Point
Path Type
Loop
Description
This is the largest loop you can take by following several different trails: Lake Trail, Tamarack Trail, Aspen Trail, Oak Trail, Maple Trail, and Cattail Trail. There are excellent views of the Crosby Lake and the surrounding woods and fens. A few rolling hills, but nothing so steep that inexperienced members wouldn't be able to handle. The trail is excellent condition and well marked.On this loop, there's about 6 rest stops/observation decks. Trail too long? There are over four points to shorten this back to the Nature Center, with excellent amenities.
History & Background
The land was originally purchased by the Hennepin County Park Reserve District in the 1950s. In 1967, efforts began to restore 80% of the Reserve to wetland, prairie, woodland, and wildlife habitat. The Lowry Nature Center is the first public nature center built in the Twin Cities. At 3,719 acres, Carver Park Reserve is the second largest park reserve in the Three Rivers Park District.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
No Condition Reports
Report Conditions

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Contributors
Mark Halvorson