Treetop Trail

Come get a fresh perspective on nature and let it change and inspire the way you experience the world, and your place within it. The 1.25-mile walking path brings guests up to 32 feet above the ground and provides a year-round and accessible journey into nature for people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities.

The Treetop Trail is included with general Zoo admission. Strollers, wheelchairs, and ECVs are all welcome on the Treetop Trail. There are four, ADA-compliant public access points throughout the 1.25-mile loop.

We are proud to announce the Treetop Trail has been recognized in the following: Top Project of 2023 Honoree by Finance & Commerce, 2024 General Design Honor Award Winner by the Minnesota Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects, American Public Works Association’s Public Works Project of the Year, Blooloop Innovation Award – 1st Place in Sustainability, and Commendation for Excellence in Design for Integration by the American Institute of Architects Minnesota.

Your Treetop Trail Visit

The Treetop Trail is an elevated experience, providing you the opportunity to immerse yourself in hundreds of acres of forest and wetlands in every season. It’s home to Minnesota wildlife and your favorite Zoo animals—and you’ll have a bird’s-eye view. Among and above the animals, you can go to new heights in nature on the Treetop Trail.

How long is the Trail?

The Treetop Trail is a 1.25-mile loop. The Treetop Trail has four, ADA-compliant public access points along it. You are welcome to explore the entire trail or just portions.

Are restrooms and water fountains available along the Trail?

Restrooms and water fountains are available in the Hanifl Nature Center and at ground level near most access points. Food and beverage concessions can also be found at ground level near most access points.

How do I access the Trail?

The Treetop Trail has four, ADA-compliant public access points: Treetop Trailhead, Moose Landing, Hanifl Nature Center, and Bison Landing. Elevator access is available at the Treetop Trailhead (via Discovery Bay) and Hanifl Nature Center.

Can I bring a bicycle or skates for recreational use on the Treetop Trail?

For the safety of all our guests, recreational bicycles, skates, and Segways are not allowed on the Trail. We do welcome mobility aids and medical devices on the Trail, such as scooters, wheelchairs, and walkers.

Hanifl Nature Center

The Hanifl Nature Center is a central access point to the Treetop Trail. This space is dedicated to nature education and trees. Featuring rotating art exhibitions, along with elevator access to the Treetop Trail, the Hanifl Nature Center is designed to encourage engagement with nature with a curious and open mind.

The Wonder of Nature: Photography by Jim Brandenburg

Stop in at the Hanifl Nature Center to view our rotating art exhibition. The newest exhibition features Photography by Jim Brandenburg - an exhibition of Minnesota Zoo animal images captured by the internationally acclaimed wildlife photographer.

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