Discover the Serenity of Carpenter Nature Center
Explore the beauty of nature at Carpenter Nature Center, a tranquil preserve along the St. Croix River, perfect for hiking, wildlife observation, and family fun.
Nestled along the stunning St. Croix River, Carpenter Nature Center is a tranquil haven for nature lovers. With diverse trails, wildlife observation areas, and educational programs, it offers a perfect retreat for tourists seeking peace, beauty, and a chance to connect with nature.
A brief summary to Carpenter Nature Center
- 12805 St Croix Trail S, Hastings, Minnesota, 55033, US
- +1651-437-4359
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 8 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Don’t forget to bring binoculars for birdwatching, as the area is home to many species.
- Check the visitor center for any scheduled educational programs or guided tours during your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes for hiking, as the trails can be uneven and vary in difficulty.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks while taking in the stunning river views.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from central locations in the Red River Valley, your best route is to take MN-75 S towards I-94. Merge onto I-94 E and continue until you reach MN-61 S. Follow MN-61 S until you reach Hastings. Take the exit for US-61 S towards Hastings and continue until you see signs for St. Croix Trail S. Turn onto St. Croix Trail S, and Carpenter Nature Center will be on your left at 12805 St Croix Trail S, Hastings, MN 55033. Parking is available on-site.
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Public Transportation
To reach Carpenter Nature Center via public transportation, you can take the Metro Transit bus route that services the Hastings area. Start by finding the nearest bus stop that serves the route heading towards Hastings. Once in Hastings, you may need to take a local taxi or rideshare service (such as Uber or Lyft) to get to Carpenter Nature Center, as public transport may not directly service the nature center. Expect taxi fares to vary, typically around $10-$20 depending on your starting location.
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Bicycling
For those who enjoy cycling, there are bike-friendly routes leading to Carpenter Nature Center. Make your way to the Mississippi River Trail and follow it south towards Hastings. Once in Hastings, navigate towards St. Croix Trail S. The center is about a 5-mile ride from the downtown area of Hastings. Make sure to wear a helmet and follow all traffic regulations. There is bike parking available on-site.
Discover more about Carpenter Nature Center
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