Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge

Wildlife refuge · Blue Hill

Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge

Wildlife refuge · Blue Hill

1

17076 293rd Ave NW, Zimmerman, MN 55398

Photos

Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge by null

Highlights

Discover the enchanting Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge, a sprawling 30,000-acre paradise where lush trails and abundant wildlife, including majestic sandhill cranes, await your exploration.  

Featured in Conde Nast Traveler
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17076 293rd Ave NW, Zimmerman, MN 55398 Get directions

fws.gov
@sherburnenwrfriends

Information

Static Map

17076 293rd Ave NW, Zimmerman, MN 55398 Get directions

+1 763 389 3323
fws.gov
@sherburnenwrfriends

Features

wheelchair accessible parking lot
wheelchair accessible entrance

Last updated

Jul 16, 2025

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@cntraveler

"My first outdoor adventure of the new year took me to Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge in Zimmerman, Minnesota, about an hour north of the Twin Cities. The mixed-habitat refuge boasts more than 30,000 acres of tall grass prairie, wetlands, oak savannah, and oak forest—all of which take on an otherworldly quality when blanketed in fresh snow. My partner and I strapped on our snowshoes and went clomping along the Blue Hill Trail, a 5.1-mile path with gentle hills and storybook canopies. It was 22 degrees and wildlife was scarce, but folks who are luckier—or simply more observant—have spotted beavers, foxes, river otters, bald eagles, sandhill cranes, and hairy woodpeckers around these parts, which have been designated an Important Bird Area by the National Audubon Society."

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View Postcard for Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge

Jennifer Thomas

Google
Visit once a year, since my sister moved up in this area. Appreciate every time we drive through, so much going on. Blessed to see it this summer, with so much greenery, and Wildlife abundant. It is nice that we are able to drive through the entire Refuge, and also take hikes. This is a great way to spend a day, without spending a penny. Highly recommend.

Wyatt W. Penke

Google
Nice mix of wetlands, trees and prairie. Nice wildlife drive and well groomed traiils. The scenery is ok. Feels more geared for the birding community. It could use a welcome or visitor center.

Lisa Peterson

Google
Seven mile drive is the best place for birdwatching and other wildlife. Great Blue Herons, Eagles, Green Herons, Muskrats, Beavers, and Coyote to name a very few. Keep in mind it’s not a zoo you have to take your time and take in all it has to offer.

David M

Google
The refuge is a central Minnesota gem that needs to be seen by everyone. The best times to drive through are early morning and evenings to see wildlife. The fall is the best time as the leaves are changing colors and the Sandhill cranes are migrating to and from the refuge. Many different species of birds can be seen from the comfort of your vehicle. This place is a great place for wildlife photography so don't forget the camera and binoculars. The last trip was on Memorial Day and during the daytime there was a lot of wildlife present. Here is a photo of an Eight-Spotted Forester Moth. I have never seen these before so I thought it would be cool to share with others that visit this site.

Thom Hendricks

Google
New place for us and we shall return. The handsome ranger was so helpful

Nate Keller

Google
Beautiful! Great place for birding and being one with nature. Trails are well maintained. Multiple hiking trail options provides serious and novice hikers with opportunities. Family friendly hikes and a beautiful 7.5 mile wilderness drive. Worth the stop every time! They also have a clean and informative visitor center.

Brian Wohlman

Google
This drive is worth taking! Lots of beauty to be enjoyed.

Travis Huber

Google
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts. Its well-maintained trails offer a peaceful escape, and the minimal light pollution allows for breathtaking stargazing and the occasional glimpse of the northern lights. It's a must-visit for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

Molly M.

Yelp
Located in Sherburne County, this National Wildlife Refuge extends for 30,700 acres. It protects wildlife in mixed habitats. Native American Village sites have been dated here to 1300 CE but the area is assumed to be inhabited for much longer. It became a National Wildlife Refuge in May, 1965. It is for day use ONLY. There are many trails/roads/trails to take throughout. We came to view the Sand Hill Crane migration-it was truly breathtaking, watching these unique birds flying in. Don't forget your binoculars and camera!

Glenn M.

Yelp
We really enjoyed our tour of the refuge. The seven mile drive was really nice. We saw a lot of wildlife and the cranes were coming in for the night. We also went to the parking lot on the north side and watched a few hundred cranes fly over.

Rick T.

Yelp
On planning a beer trip Fargo to visit Drekker I stumbled upon this wildlife park you can drive through if you please. The seven mile loop was filled with exotic cranes and swans. Some of the birds I saw I've never seen in my life. A picturesque drive for sure with not too much traffic along the route. Several photographers were to be seen stalking their prey with long angle lenses they looked very expensive. Other animals like cows and maybe a wood chuck we're playing along the side of the road. Would recommend spend 30-45 minutes if visiting the area !

Glory K.

Yelp
Really lovely way to see large groups of wildlife from your car! The scenery is beautiful too!

Paul S.

Yelp
Love coming here! Hiking trails are nice and not too difficult, especially for the younger family members. Lots of wildlife to be found. The wildlife drive is fantastic for anyone interested in migratory birds and offers lots of photo opportunities. Plus it's a short drive from the metro--approximately 45 minutes due north of maple grove.