Intro to Hiking: Louisville Swamp

Just because it's cold doesn't mean the outdoors can't be enjoyed! Come out for a hike with refuge staff and volunteers as they lead you down snowy paths to see the winter wonderland of Minnesota Valley.

This program is intended for all ages as an introduction to hiking and refuge trails. No experience necessary - we're here to show you the ropes! Registration optional. For information on trail conditions, please read the accessibility section. Snowshoes will be provided if conditions are met.

Questions? Contact [MinnesotaValley@fws.gov](mailto:MinnesotaValley@fws.gov) or call (952) 854-5900.

Date and Time: Saturday, February 21st from 1-2:30pm

Location: Meet us at the kiosk at the Louisville Swamp North Trailhead (Main Parking Area). 3801 145th St W, Shakopee, MN 55379

Registration Information: Registration optional through [Signup.com](https://signup.com/go/gPPrWjW).

Optional registration allows us to prepare supplies and materials for the program, send reminders, and allows us to contact you in the event of inclement weather!

Activity Level: This is an easy to moderate outdoor activity. We hope to reach 2-2.5 miles in 1.5 hours. This will be guided by refuge staff and volunteers. Frequent breaks will occur.

What to Bring: Please wear winter clothing as this program is fully outdoors (coat, pants, boots, mittens, hat, etc). Consider dressing in layers. A full water bottle is recommended.

Accessibility: Accessibility at Louisville Swamp North Trailhead (Main Parking Area):

Restrooms are located at the parking lot. There are no water fountains or dedicated handicap parking. Trail is nature surface and mostly flat, with a slight slope to reach the Mazomani trail. Depending on seasonal trail conditions, natural surface paths may be muddy (summer) or snowy (winter) and may not always be suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. There are no benches in the trail area. Trailhead is a <0.1 mile distance from the parking lot. There are no benches or rest areas in the area.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is committed to providing access to these events for all participants. Please direct all requests for sign language interpreting services, close captioning, or other accommodation needs at least ten business days before the event to Oscar Hernandez at [oscar_hernandez@fws.gov](mailto:oscar_hernandez@fws.gov).