Located in the midwestern United States, much of the terrain in Minnesota is characterized by gently rolling hills, notwithstanding dramatic elevation differences in mountainous regions. In these areas, exposed rocky terrain and various geological formations are not uncommon. Often referred to as “The Land of 10,000 Lakes” because of the 11,842 lakes over 10 acres in size, Minnesota has the most wetlands of any state except Alaska.

Boreal forest cover is predominant in the north, giving way to broadleaf forests in the southern regions. The climate is continental, resulting in hot summers and cold winters, and many of the lakes freeze over in late autumn. The area experiences many meteorological events such as snow, rain, blizzards, thunderstorms, hail, tornadoes, and high-velocity winds.