2050 Regional Parks and Trails Policy Plan

The Twin Cities region ranks high in national livability rankings – in large part because of our Regional Parks and Trails System. With 487 miles of regional trails and 66 parks, park reserves, and special features, the system showcases the area’s unique landscapes while providing year-round recreation.

The Metropolitan Council teams with a wide range of partners to develop a Regional Parks and Trails Policy Plan that supports human health and well-being while expanding ecological benefits, building resiliency, and reducing climate change impacts for our parks and trails.

The 2050 Regional Parks and Trails Policy Plan was adopted in February 2025. It builds on the 2040 Regional Parks Policy Plan adopted in 2014 and most recently amended in 2020.

View the Imagine 2050 Regional Parks and Trails Policy Plan

Research

Park and trail research largely informs our engagement strategy. It provides helpful insights as to who is and isn’t visiting our regional parks and trails and offers recommendations around how the Met Council and implementing agencies can foster more inclusive park experiences and our overall journey towards a more equitable system where everyone feels welcome.

Regional Parks and Trails System Visitor Study

The visitor study measures satisfaction across demographics, age, and gender with the regional park and trail system. Among other goals, this information is used to strengthen equitable usage of regional parks and trails and inform the regional parks and trails plan.

Youth & Parks: Getting Outdoors Close to Home

We gathered youth and parks research to better understand and serve underrepresented populations. This one-of-a-kind study informs policy about the needs, motivations, and barriers that youth face when accessing the regional park and trail system. Intentionally inclusive involvement, particularly from young people, is needed for maintaining broad-based public support for park and trail investments.