Treetop Trail at the Minnesota Zoo

Snow Kreilich Architects partnered with the Minnesota Zoo to transform the infrastructure of its decommissioned monorail into a 1.25-mile elevated pedestrian trail and viewing platform. The Treetop Trail reconnects the developed southern portion of the Zoo with the forested “North Forty,” an area that had been inaccessible to regular visitors since the monorail was decommissioned. By transforming the monorail into a walking trail, visitors can immerse themselves in nature while choosing their own pace and experience.

Initially engaged to study the feasibility of reusing the existing monorail infrastructure, Snow Kreilich worked with Meyer Borgman Johnson to assess its structural capacity and developed a conceptual framework for the trail. Maps, diagrams, and renderings helped establish the vision for the project and became the foundation for a successful fundraising and marketing campaign. The design team later expanded to include Buro Happold, TEN x TEN Landscape Architects, Victus Engineering, Barr Engineering, MIG, and SIG to complete the project.

The Treetop Trail is designed as an extension of the Zoo’s existing circulation system, providing new ways to experience both its exhibits and the surrounding landscape. Four carefully located access points connect the elevated loop to existing ground trails, amenities, and programs while accommodating visitors of all abilities. At the primary trailhead, the existing monorail access ramp was adapted to create a more welcoming entry, with a new grand stair, platform seating, and refreshed plaza. At the Hanifl Nature Center, the trail integrates with an existing grain elevator structure to create an open gallery, new elevators, restrooms, and accessible amenities.

As an accessible path through the landscape, the Treetop Trail creates opportunities for exploration, respite, interpretation, and connection to nature. Its deliberately quiet design heightens awareness of the surrounding environment, offering new views and perspectives while encouraging visitors to slow down and observe the landscape around them. Certified SITES® Silver, the project strengthens the connection between people, wildlife, and the natural world.

Since opening, the Treetop Trail has contributed to a significant increase in Zoo attendance, welcoming 2,200 additional daily visitors in its first year and ultimately helping the Zoo to expand on its mission to, “Connect people, animals, and the natural world to save wildlife.”

See more at: treetoptrail.mnzoo.org