24,000-acre Smoky Hills State Forest is characterized by rolling-to-moderately steep slopes that offer 30 mi of snowmobile trails, 25 mi of hiking trails, and exceptional hunting for deer & grouse. It is located in eastern Becker County and is traversed by State Hwy 34. It is 20 miles east of Detroit Lakes. State, county, and township roads provide access to much of the refuge. A prairie chicken viewing blind is available from mid-March thru April.
Sucker Creek Preserve is a 64 Acre parcel of NW Minnesota hardwood forest. Visitors of all ages are offered a self-guided environmental learning experience. Topography includes swamp, designated trout stream, woods and prairie. Handicapped accessible path leads 1/3 mile through woods and newly seeded prairie to 110-seat amphitheater. Designated trout stream, Sucker Creek, marks south preserve boundary. Outdoor activities include: Hiking Trails, Cross Country Ski Trails, Birding & Wildlife Viewing.
