Southeast Minnesota is part of the Driftless Area (or Driftless Zone) — a unique geological region that also includes parts of southwestern Wisconsin, northeastern Iowa, and northwestern Illinois. It's called the "Driftless" area because it was not covered by glaciers during the last Ice Age, unlike much of the surrounding Midwest.
Here's why it matters:
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❄️ No Glacial Drift: “Drift” refers to the sediment left behind by retreating glaciers. Since glaciers bypassed this region, there’s little to no glacial debris.
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⛰️ Rugged Landscape: Without the flattening effect of glaciers, the region retained its deep river valleys, steep bluffs, caves, sinkholes, and karst topography.
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🏞️ Ecological Diversity: The unique terrain supports rare habitats, spring-fed trout streams, and a rich mix of plant and animal life not common elsewhere in Minnesota.
In short, the Driftless Zone stands out for its dramatic hills, ridges, and preserved pre-glacial landscape — offering scenic beauty and geological interest unlike the flatter glaciated regions of the Midwest.
