Just a short drive north of the Twin Cities, the Carlos Avery Wildlife Management Area offers a stunning escape into nature that feels worlds away from city life. Spanning over 23,000 acres across the Forest Lake area, this hidden gem is a paradise for wildlife watchers, photographers, and anyone craving a peaceful outdoor adventure.
A Vast and Varied Landscape
Carlos Avery is a unique blend of habitats — from sprawling wetlands and winding rivers to dense woodlands and open meadows. This diversity makes it an important refuge for countless species of birds, mammals, and plants, as well as an incredibly scenic place to explore year-round.
Because the area is so vast, it’s easy to find a quiet spot where you can enjoy the sounds of nature and the wide-open skies all to yourself.
A Birdwatcher’s Dream
If you’re into birdwatching, Carlos Avery is a must-visit. The preserve is home to over 270 bird species throughout the year, including sandhill cranes, bald eagles, trumpeter swans, and a wide variety of waterfowl and songbirds. Spring and fall migrations are especially magical, when the skies and wetlands come alive with activity.
Bring your binoculars and a camera — you never know what rare sightings you might catch!
Scenic Trails and Backroads
While Carlos Avery isn’t filled with traditional hiking trails like a state park, it does offer miles of rustic gravel roads and pathways that wind through its different ecosystems. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely drive, a casual walk, or a bike ride.
If you love photography, early mornings and late evenings offer especially breathtaking light, with mist rising from the marshes and golden sunsets stretching across the fields.
Quiet Adventure, Close to Home
One of the best parts about Carlos Avery is how accessible it is. Despite feeling incredibly remote, it’s only about 40 minutes from downtown Minneapolis, making it a perfect day trip when you need a quick nature reset without the long drive.
Because it’s a wildlife management area rather than a traditional park, it tends to be less crowded — meaning more solitude for you.
A True Hidden Paradise in Minnesota
For those willing to venture off the beaten path, Carlos Avery Wildlife Management Area offers one of the most peaceful and beautiful nature experiences in Minnesota. Whether you’re birdwatching, exploring backroads, or simply enjoying the quiet beauty of the landscape, this hidden preserve feels like your own private slice of the wild.
