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Special Places

Together, we are supporting the outdoors we all love
Split Rock Lighthouse State Park by Jim Sochko / P&TC photo contest

Our mission

We work to Acquire Protect Enhance critical land
for the public's use and benefit

Our Land Projects

We step up to help acquire land for parks and trails. Explore our land acquisition projects.

A serene autumn landscape at Afton State Park by a calm lake with a sandy shore lined by vibrant, colorful trees under a clear blue sky. A large rock sits prominently in the foreground.
Afton State Park
Lush landscape with short waterfall in background and mossy rocks in front
Banning State Park
A night sky vividly displays the milky way with countless stars and Jupiter and Saturn, stretching above a dark lake surrounded by silhouetted pine trees.
Bear Head Lake State Park
A wooden boardwalk winds through a lush, green forest under a bright blue sky with few wispy clouds. Tall trees line both sides of the path in Big Bog State Recreation Area, suggesting a peaceful, natural setting for a walk or hike.
Big Bog State Recreation Area
A colorful sign depicting the Currie Loop Segment of the Casey Jones State Trail highlights local landmarks, vibrant wildlife, and a detailed map. The sign underscores the area's rich history and values, standing next to a paved trail surrounded by lush vegetation and trees under a blue sky with clouds.
Casey Jones State Trail
A wooden bridge stretches across a small path covered in fallen leaves, leading into a dense forest of tall trees with vibrant autumn foliage in shades of orange and yellow. Sunlight filters through the leaves, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Charles A. Lindbergh State Park
A tranquil lakeside scene at sunset in Checkerboard Park, with a picnic table under a solitary tree. The sky is a blend of orange, pink, and purple hues, reflecting on the calm water. Surrounding the lake are lush trees and greenery, typical of Chisago County's serene landscapes.
Checkerboard Park (Chisago County)
A serene landscape featuring a grassy hillside on the left, with trees lined along its edge. A calm lake reflects the blue sky and clouds. Dense green foliage is visible on the opposite shore under a partly cloudy sky during daylight.
Crow Wing State Park
A cyclist wearing a white long-sleeve shirt, black shorts, and a white helmet rides a mountain bike on a trail in Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area. The path overlooks a scenic lake surrounded by lush greenery. The sky is partly cloudy, and the cyclist carries a yellow backpack.
Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area
A serene underground cave features a calm, clear pool of water reflecting the rock formations above. Warm yellow lighting enhances the rugged textures of the rocks and casts a golden glow, revealing hints of green and blue underwater.
Forestville-Mystery Cave State Park
All our Land Projects

Happenings with Parks & Trails

Special Places Newsletter – 2026 February
Gateway State Trail Project Saved | 2026 Legislative Priorities | Public Policy: Community-drive projects | Research: Updated State of the Trails Report | Land Project: William O'Brien State Park | Places & Friends: Itasca State Park
2025 State of the Trails
How smooth are Minnesota's paved state trails?
2026 Photo Contest
The 2026 Photo Contest is open for ongoing submissions through June 14, 2026. Enter and view the photos.
All News

Explore the State Trails

Interactive map

Explore our new interactive map of the state trails. You’ll find in-depth data about each segment of trail from condition ratings, parking locations, on-street segments, directions, and Google Street View links. 

Go to map

Our Work

Public Investment

Stewardship

Recreation for All

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