Minnesota has the best network of trails, including snowmobile and cross-country skiing routes, in the country. Photo: Minnesota DNR
Recreational trail lovers should look to a Great Lakes state for the best network of hiking, biking, cross-country skiing and water routes, according to a national nonprofit promoting pathways.
American Trails honored Minnesota with its “Best Trails State” award in late November.
The North Star State has more than 30,000 miles of recreational trails, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. That’s the same length as traveling from the west to the east coast of the United States 10 times.
“Minnesota’s extensive, scenic trails are a major draw for travelers and a significant asset to the tourism business in our state,” said John Edman, director of Explore Minnesota Tourism, in a press release.
Trails managed by the department include:
– More than 600 miles of paved trails for biking
– 1,000 miles of equestrian trails
– 1,300 miles of cross-country skiing trails
– 1,000 miles of off-highway vehicle trails
– 4,400 miles of water trails
– 1,000 miles of snowmobile trails
– Several thousand miles of hiking trails.
Local governments manage more than 22,000 miles of additional snowmobile, cross-country skiing and off-road vehicle trails, according to the department.
Check out videos of some of the state’s best trails here and an interactive map here.