Join us this summer for Trail Talks, a two-part event series designed to spark inspiration, build skills, and connect our community around the growing world of backpacking and trails in southeast Minnesota.

Part 2: Intro to the Minnesota Driftless Hiking Trail 

Curious about the new long-distance hiking trail coming to southeast Minnesota? Here’s your chance to learn about the Minnesota Driftless Hiking Trail (MDHT)—a nonprofit-led effort to create a 100+ mile backpacking route through the scenic Driftless Region of Minnesota. Our goal is to connect small towns, public lands, and natural areas with a continuous trail that supports outdoor recreation, local tourism, and community well-being.

At this session, we’ll introduce you to the vision behind the trail, share our proposed route and timeline, highlight our partnerships with rural communities, and explain how you can get involved—whether as a supporter, volunteer, landowner, or trail user. We’ll also be doing a giveaway of MDHT swag to celebrate the progress we’ve made so far.

This event is open to everyone and especially valuable for local residents, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone interested in conservation, trail building, or regional development.

This workshop is free to attend, and open to all. Bring a friend or two and come learn all about the Minnesota Driftless Hiking Trail!

Date & Time: August 16, 2025 at 4:30 p.m.

Location: Janky Gear in Rochester: 611 N Broadway Ave, Rochester, MN 55906

Join us this summer for Trail Talks, a two-part event series designed to spark inspiration, build skills, and connect our community around the growing world of backpacking and trails in southeast Minnesota.

Part 1: Backpacking 101

Curious about backpacking but not sure where to start? Our hands-on Backpacking 101 workshop will cover everything from essential gear and packing tips to resupply strategies, safety considerations, and the many ways people hit the trail—from weekend trips to long-distance adventures. Whether you’re brand new or just want a refresher, you’ll leave more confident and trail-ready.

This workshop is donation-based, with all proceeds supporting operational costs for the Minnesota Driftless Hiking Trail (MDHT).

Date & Time: August 2, 2025 at 4:30 p.m.

Location: Janky Gear in Rochester: 611 N Broadway Ave, Rochester, MN 55906

We love to talk about the mission to build this trail and are happy to speak in person or virtually to groups large and small.