General Mills Nature Preserve has 27 acres of pristine nature, and it was a conscious choice by General Mills and the City of Golden Valley in the early 2000s to simultaneously improve the area for increased traffic and preserve the wetlands surrounding it. General Mills donated land for the project, and it was dedicated in July of 2007. There are three distinct habitats here: floodplain forest, shallow marsh, and wet meadow. It also has more than 50 native plants, and a half-mile trail that connects to the city's trail system. It's one of the few preserves of its kind and size in a first-ring suburb, and it's a wonderful way to refresh and recharge in the middle of a busy day.