Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area

Just minutes from the Twin Cities, this state recreation area preserves part of the Minnesota River Valley. The Minnesota Valley Trail links Fort Snelling State Park and units of the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge to waysides and other public lands. The area is ideal for hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, mountain biking, and snowmobiling. The landscapes are just as diverse as the trail system, and include wetlands, floodplain forest, and blufftop oak savanna. Wildlife observation and birdwatching are popular activities year-round.