Overview

The city currently owns and manages 528 acres of open space protected in 14 park preserves ranging in size from two to 113 acres. These natural areas encompass much of the Bluff Creek corridor and other treasured wetlands and woodlands. More detailed information can be found in the Park Inventory.

Local Preserves

Lake Riley Preserve, a beautifully wooded slice of lakeshore, is the smallest at just less than two acres. The largest park preserve is the Chanhassen Nature Preserve, with 113 acres spreading across marsh, grasslands, and mixed species forests from Century Boulevard to Galpin Boulevard.

These preserves have been acquired through various conveyances – land donations and cash purchases. These parcels and their associated open spaces contribute significantly to the quality of life for area residents, serve an essential role as wildlife sanctuaries, and help protect property values.

Preserve Activities

Many of the city’s walking trails are located in or adjacent to park preserves, allowing the public to view the abundant wildlife that calls these areas home.

Bird watching is a favorite pastime where a dozen or more varieties can be viewed in a single outing. Ducks, geese, pheasant, wild turkey, deer, coyote, red and gray fox, muskrat, beaver, and mink are commonly spotted while visiting these wild lands.

Forest and grassland management projects are underway on certain portions of the preserves as efforts continue to restore and protect these areas for future generations.

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