Trails
Explore Olmsted County Trails
Olmsted County trails master plan coming in 2027
To enhance outdoor recreation and connectivity, Olmsted County is developing a new trails master plan that looks beyond the current county park system. The plan will identify opportunities to link state and local trail systems and connect key destinations such as parks, schools, community facilities, and natural features. It will guide future priorities, improve regional connectivity, and support safe, accessible recreation for residents and visitors.
SRF Consulting will lead efforts to develop the Olmsted County trails master plan. Local and state agencies will provide guidance and coordination throughout the process. Entities contributing input include Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT), City of Rochester, Rochester-Olmsted Council of Governments (ROCOG), and the Olmsted County Public Works and Planning departments.
Key goals:
- Inventory all existing trail types in and around the county, as well as proposed trails.
- Create a prioritized list of trail opportunities.
- Improve connectivity between parks, neighborhoods, and regional destinations.
- Coordinate trail design standards, wayfinding, and safety for future development.
- Support environmental sustainability and habitat protection.
- Plan for future growth and emerging community needs.
Community engagement opportunities
Olmsted County Parks and Trails and SRF Consulting will provide opportunities for individuals, citizen trail advocacy groups, elected officials, and other interested parties to review developing plans and provide input.
Open houses and engagement opportunities
Join Olmsted County Parks and Trails to learn about the county's Trails Systemwide Master Plan, review potential trail network concepts, and share your feedback.
Open house details
Thursday, November 19, 2026
5-7 p.m. at Graham Park in Aune Hall in Rochester
Community engagement survey
Help shape the future of trails in Olmsted County by sharing your feedback on trail connections, priorities, and future opportunities. Survey responses will help inform the Olmsted County Trails Systemwide Master Plan. The survey is open through December 31, 2026.
Online survey link
Timelines and next steps
- The trails master plan document is anticipated to be complete by fall of 2027.
- Adoption by the Olmsted County Board of Commissioners is planned for late 2027.
- If approved, implementation of the plan can start as early as 2028 with recommendations in the county’s Capital
Improvement Plan and continued work with other trail agencies and advocacy groups.