Southeast Blufflands

The unique “driftless” region of southeast Minnesota, untouched by the glaciers that covered much of North America during the last ice age, is a remarkable landscape where forests and prairies intermingle with meandering trout streams and the Mississippi River and its tributaries. Nowhere else in the state can you find such breathtaking limestone cliffs offering dramatic views of river valleys.  

This area is Minnesota’s most biodiverse, yet it faces significant threats to wildlife habitats, important watersheds, and public access that residents rely on. Less than 5 percent of this land is protected and accessible to the public. 

At the Trust for Public Land, we understand the importance of preserving this landscape for essential public access and ensure that the legacy of the blufflands is preserved for future generations. Together with our partners, we are collaborating with local communities and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to expand, restore, enhance, and connect public lands in the blufflands area. Our efforts focus on conserving critical habitats and providing spaces for people to explore and enjoy the benefits of nature.