Norskedalen

Norskedalen is a botanical garden set across a large property featuring native grasslands, forests, and wetland areas where regional plants and wildlife thrive. The grounds also contain restored historic farm buildings and span hundreds of acres with an arboretum and diverse habitat zones.

This site began in 1977 when landowners donated acreage to establish an outdoor research center under university management. A research library was later added to document the area's natural and cultural heritage.

Log cabins restored from late-1800s Norwegian settler homesteads stand scattered across the grounds, showing how families built and arranged their homes. Walking past these structures, visitors experience how pioneers adapted their building traditions to the local landscape and climate.

Visitors can explore the property on foot using multiple marked trails, with options varying in difficulty and length. Comfortable shoes and extra time are helpful for experiencing the different landscapes and spotting wildlife throughout the day.

A specialized research library on the grounds houses extensive collections about the region's history and settlement patterns. This collection offers deep insights into how nature and human history are intertwined in this particular area.

GPS coordinates: 43.73762,-90.98892

Latest update: December 14, 2025 09:44