Start Your Adventure
Get Outdoors
The Jay C. Hormel Nature Center features over 500 acres of prairie, forests, and wetlands.
Keep eyes and ears open for many kinds of wildlife as you explore the 9 miles of trails!
About Us
Interpretive Center Hours:
Monday thru Saturday:
9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Sunday: 1:00 – 5:00 p.m.
(Closed City Holidays)
Trail Hours:
6:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m. daily

Quick Facts
- Trails and Interpretive Center are FREE to explore!
- No dogs/pets on trails.
- No picnic/camping area.
- No bikes on our trails.
- Shooting Star Bike Trail starts on the west side of parking lot.
Come Explore

Programming
- School Programs PreK – 8th Grade
- Home School Classes
- Summer Classes
- Community Programs & Events
Friends of the Hormel Nature Center

The mission of the Friends of the Hormel Nature Center is to enhance and encourage environmental education, scientific opportunities, and the enjoyment of nature at the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center.
The Hormel Nature Center depends on generous donations to continue to carry out the mission of the Friends.
Learn more about becoming a member and membership benefits on the Friends of the Hormel Nature Center page.
December Nature Note
A few weeks ago, I found myself gazing at the night sky, parked on the edge of a cornfield in my flannel pajamas. It’s not every day that something so…
November Nature Note
As fall and winter approach, we are seeing an increase in bird migration. Many of these birds are going to warmer areas, like Arizona, Texas, Mississippi, etc. But did you…
October Nature Note
Minnesota boasts incredible coniferous and hardwood forests in the northern part of the state as well as plenty of deciduous forests in the south. In amongst the deciduous forests, lay…
September Nature Note
Every evening this summer, the sky above Main Street fills with small, fast moving birds darting and chirping above the buildings. While they are unnoticed by most, it only takes…
August Nature Note
It’s time to understand these tiny, sly bugs that often result in breaking out the bug spray or heading back inside. No-see-ums, also referred to as…
July Nature Note
Quickly approaching are the “dog days” of summer – a period of some of the hottest days, typically around the second half of July. While most of us are trying…
Contact
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