At WonderTrek, we are continually inspired by the people who go above and beyond to make the Brainerd Lakes Area a wonder-filled place to live, work, and play. Today, we are honored to highlight a story rooted in community, legacy, and the power of outdoor exploration in our Sponsorship Spotlight on long-term resident Robert (Bob) Nystrom. While Bob has chosen to contribute his time and talents to many important causes over the years, we are thrilled to announce that Bob has chosen to help shape the future of adventure play in our community for generations to come.
Bob grew up here in the Brainerd Lakes Area, where his childhood was filled with outdoor adventures, wandering along wooded trails with friends, discovering new adventures, and learning firsthand from the natural world around him. The Lakes Area was his playground, and its natural beauty helped nurture his sense of wonder.
Years later, Bob and his wife, Rachel, built their life together in this same community they both loved, sharing their love of the outdoors with their children and grandchildren. After Rachel sadly passed away after a long battle with Alzheimer’s, Bob decided to create a lasting legacy by sponsoring one of WonderTrek’s signature outdoor recreational environments:
The Robert and Rachel Nystrom Trail Hub and Adventure Trails
The Trails reflect what they cherished: the beauty of nature, walking together in the woods, staying active, keeping imaginative, and the thrill of exploration that lead to moments of discovery. When families start visiting WonderTrek next year, theTrail Hub, is where they can choose their adventure along wooded trails winding throughout WonderTrek’s 9-acre campus, leading to fantastical exhibits, year-round recreation, and simple moments enjoying nature.
“I want every child in this region to have the chance I had — a childhood full of wonder, discovery, and outdoor play.”
Bob nystrom
Bob believes deeply in what WonderTrek will bring to our region. He sees it not only as a museum, but as a community anchor, a place where children can explore, families can connect, and lasting memories are made.
“This is about community. It’s about legacy.”
bob nystrom
And he wants your help to make it happen. Together we have an opportunity to build something extraordinary for today and for generations to come. There are many ways to be part of making WonderTrek just right for our region, from sponsoring exhibits and exclusive naming rights, to personalized bricks and pavers, leaving a lasting family legacy on the WonderTrek campus. Whether your contribution is large or small, your support brings WonderTrek one step closer to opening its doors wide open in the coming year.
Hear Bob’s story in his own words:
One meaningful way to be part of this legacy is by leaving your mark on the WonderTrek campus. Through personalized bricks, pavers, and picnic tables, families can honor loved ones and help shape a place of play and exploration for generations to come. https://wondertrekmuseum.org/donate/