Minnesota Zoo Announces Treetop Trail

APPLE VALLEY, MN — The Minnesota Zoo announced that it is repurposing the old monorail trail into the Treetop Trail, a 1.25 mile walking trail.

It will be completed around summer, 2023, according to Minnesota Zoo.

It will be the world's longest elevated pedestrian loop, and will immerse guests in nature in a 32-foot tall canopy, the Zoo said.

Minnesota Zoo said it established the "Step into Nature" campaign to fund the Trail, which also includes Wells Fargo Family Farm projects, with funds from individual donors, corporate donors and Zoo and Foundation funds.

The state of Minnesota offered $11 million in financial support for the project, and the K.A.H.R. Foundation provided the "single largest financial contribution in Zoo history," the Zoo said.

"As of today, we have secured more than $30 million or 80% of our $39 million goal, including
philanthropic contributions and public support, which is remarkable," Minnesota Zoo Director and Foundation President John Frawley said. "It’s inspiring to have this public and private partnership to support the Zoo and the Treetop Trail. We welcome anyone who supports the Zoo’s mission, our connection to wildlife and the elevation of Minnesota as a nature innovator to become part of this historic project."

Minnesota Zoo said that it partnered with Snow Kreilich Architects to research the project, which then partnered with engineering firm Buro Happold. The Zoo said it is also working with University of Minnesota's School of Design for a co-design process.

More information is available here.