2025 MN Great Trails Workshop A Success

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), in partnership with the National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council (NOHVCC), recently hosted a Great Trails Workshop at the Snake Creek Management Unit in the Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest in southeastern Minnesota.

NOHVCC contracted with Dick Dufourd of RecConnect to lead this workshop. Mr. Dufourd, renowned as the author of the Great Trails Handbook and a key contributor to the development of the current workshop curriculum, brought a deep well of expertise and enthusiasm to the event. His decades of experience and passion for sustainable trail design were clearly evident, providing attendees with invaluable insights and practical knowledge they can apply in their own trail projects.

Approximately twenty trail enthusiasts and DNR staff gathered to focus on enhancing the user experience at one of the state’s most popular multi-use trail systems. The Snake Creek trails, known for their steep terrain and challenging soil conditions, also experience frequent heavy rain events—making sustainable trail design and maintenance a top priority.

 Workshop participants received hands-on instruction in trail flow, signage, and water management fundamentals. DNR staff led a demonstration of specialized trail equipment, offering insights into the benefits and limitations of different tools used in trail construction and upkeep.

In advance of the event, the DNR also hosted a session highlighting the Agency’s Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Trail Assistance Program, commonly known as "Grant-in-Aid." This provided attendees with an overview of funding opportunities available to support local trail projects. 

By bringing together public land managers and passionate riders, the workshop helped foster a shared understanding of how thoughtful trail design and collaboration can enhance sustainability and recreation opportunities across Minnesota.

To see photos from this workshop visit our photo gallery here.